Ottawa, Province Invest $5-Million To Help Create 80 Jobs At McCain Foods
GRAND FALLS – The provincial and federal governments have announced a $5-million investment to support the implementation of a high-speed potato specialty line at the Grand Falls McCain Foods facility, which will help create 80 new jobs.
“McCain Foods is a world-class company with operations globally, and we are thrilled to see this expansion, which will create jobs, help grow the economy, all while contributing to our province’s food sustainability, which is a strong focus for our government,” said Premier Blaine Higgs in a release.
“This significant investment into the Grand Falls facility will ensure that N.B. operations remain competitive and productive. We know our people and our province have a lot to offer the world; this investment by McCain is a further testament to the strong business case which exists for investing in our province.”
A $3.5-million repayable contribution will come from ACOA for the advanced manufacturing equipment and $1.5-million will come from an investment from Opportunities New Brunswick for payroll rebates over a period of three years.
“We proudly support McCain Foods Limited as it works to expand its production capacity, meet market demand and create new jobs,” said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.
“Our government is making investments that will enable businesses in all regions of our country to scale-up and access the capital needed to succeed in the post-pandemic economy.”
In 2019, McCain Foods announced plans to invest $80-million to expand production capacity at the manufacturing plant in Grand Falls. At the time, they hoped for the production line to be fully operational by early 2021. In an email to Huddle, McCain Foods said the new production line will be fully operational by August 2021.
“Our initial timeline had to be adjusted as we adapted to the Covid-19 pandemic and focused on our number one priority – the health and well-being of our employees and communities,” wrote Charlie Angelakos, Vice President of Global Government and External Affairs.
RELATED: McCain Foods Will Create Around 80 Jobs With New Production Line In Grand Falls
McCain Foods says the project allows the company to expand the local supply chain and create spinoffs for the region’s small and medium-sized businesses.
They also say the latest technology will be incorporated into the manufacturing line for process efficiency and quality, including best practices for water and energy use.
”As part of our ongoing global investment program, we’re proud to continue to grow and strengthen our business in our home of New Brunswick, Canada,” said Max Koeune, President and CEO of McCain Foods, in a statement.
“We’re grateful to the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Opportunities NB for their support in this flagship project that will see the creation of jobs while boosting the local economy at large.’’
Liam Floyd is a reporter for Huddle. Send him story suggestions: [email protected].