News Release

SAINT-QUENTIN (GNB) – Groupe Savoie, a major employer in northern New Brunswick, is expanding its Saint-Quentin operations and increasing its workforce with investments from the provincial and federal governments, Premier Brian Gallant announced today.

The company, which is a leading producer of a wide range of top-quality hardwood products exported across North America, Europe and Asia, is branching out into block pallet production and hiring 40 new employees.

“New Brunswick has an export-driven economy,” said Gallant. “By helping businesses like Groupe Savoie improve their competitiveness, they increase their exports, which creates jobs. Groupe Savoie is one of the largest employers in northern New Brunswick with deep roots in the community. We are pleased to support their expansion and job creation plans.”

Opportunities NB will contribute a payroll rebate of $500,000 and a $500,000 repayable loan. Once filled, the 40 positions will contribute an estimated $4.9 million annually to the province’s GDP.

The Regional Development Corporation is contributing up to $1.1 million that will be used for improvements at two facilities, as well as for equipment and pallet production. The company’s capital investments of nearly $10 million are expected to increase export sales as well as improve productivity and competitiveness.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is providing a repayable contribution of $1 million through its Business Development Program.

“The Government of Canada is committed to supporting high-impact companies that play an important role in improving Canada’s competitiveness and creating jobs for Canadians,” said Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains, who is also minister responsible for ACOA. “That is why we will continue to invest in companies such as Groupe Savoie to help them grow and generate wealth in their community.”

Founded in 1978, Groupe Savoie produces hardwood products for international markets including: pallets and pallet components, cabinet and furniture components, hardwood lumber, tone wood components, ecological fuels and wood chips. The company has operations in Saint-Quentin, Kedgwick, Moncton and Nova Scotia. Its industrial facilities include pallet, pellet and component plants; a pallet production and recycling plant; sawmills; and dry kilns.

Opportunities NB is a Crown corporation that seeks to attract and support opportunities to grow the economy and create jobs. It provides support services for businesses across the province.