Laval, Quebec, October 26, 2007 Acting on behalf of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of Canada Economic Development, the Honourable Michael M Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada and Minister responsible for the Montréal Region, today announced that the firm Metra Aluminium Inc. of Laval will receive $450,000 in repayable funding to acquire modern strategic equipment that will enable it to automate its packaging operations and increase its productivity. This project will necessitate an overall investment of $2,152,150 and result in the maintenance of 175 jobs.
"Productivity is a key factor in securing a higher standard of living for the population. To that end, the Government of Canada has introduced a number of initiatives, including those outlined in its Advantage Canada plan, to help businesses boost their productivity. Once completed, this project will allow Metra Aluminium to improve its position and pursue its growth in order to remain at the forefront of the metal products sector," explained Minister Fortier.
"With this project and Canada Economic Development's support, our firm will be able to make gains in productivity that will generate considerable savings. This will allow us to focus on research and development and invest more of our energy in our value-added product niche. In short, Metra Aluminium will be better equipped to hold its own with the competition," added Metra Aluminium Executive Vice-President Pierre Guilbault.
Installing new high-performance equipment will enable the firm to speed up its packaging operations by 80%, thereby generating savings of $400,000 in the first year and $600,000 in subsequent years. Moreover, this project, which stems from the recommendations of a global productivity enhancement diagnosis conducted in 2006, will result in the maintenance of 175 jobs and help reduce the risk of accidents in the workplace.
Metra Aluminium Inc. specializes in the roll forming of customized and standard aluminium extrusions used in the manufacture of doors, windows, automobiles and boats for the architectural, transportation, manufacturing and consumer markets.
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Sources:
Nathalie Jutras
Communications
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 514-283-2800
E-mail: nathalie.jutras@dec-ced.gc.ca
Yan Plante
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 819-953-5646
E-mail: yan.plante@hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca
