14 July 2010
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
With support from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), Vogue Optical of Charlottetown has acquired leading edge lens coating technology enabling the company to provide quicker and more efficient services to its customers.
The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway visited the company’s manufacturing laboratory today to announce $250,000 in support for the initiative through ACOA’s Business Development Program.
“Our Government is investing in small and medium sized businesses across the Island, creating jobs and strengthening the local economy,” said Minister Ashfield. “ACOA is pleased to invest in Vogue Optical to help purchase new technology and equipment that increases productivity and competitiveness in Atlantic Canada.”
“It has always been our mission to provide quality eyewear, professional services and unbeatable value to our customers,” said company Vice-President Cory Gray. “Securing innovative products is vital to this mission, and having this support from ACOA has positioned us to do just that.”
The repayable ACOA loan is provided through the Agency’s Business Development Program which is designed,in part, to to assist businesses adapt or aquire new leading-edge technology.
The new equipment will allow the company to complete, on- site, the application of anti-reflective and scratch resistant coatings to many of the lenses manufactured at the company’s existing laboratory. This enhanced capcity will significantly reduces turn-around times for customers.
Founded in 1979, Vogue Optical now has operations in 57 locations across Canada and employs approximatley 300 people.
FOR BROADCAST USE:
Vogue Optical of Charlottetown has acquired leading edge lens coating technology with the help of ACOA’s Business Development Program. The new technology will enhance the company’s capacity to serve its customers by significantly reducing product turn-around times.
ACOA Minister Keith Ashfield was in Charlottetown today at the company’s manufacturing laboratory to announce the federal investment of $250,000. He was joined by company Vice-President, Cory Gray.
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INFORMATION:
Jana Parker
ACOA PEI & Tourism
902-368-0264
Cory Gray
Vice-President, Vogue Optical
902-566-3326
