News Release

PERTH-ANDOVER (GNB) – Atlantic Potato Distributors is expanding its operation in Perth-Andover, creating up to 10 full-time jobs with support from the provincial and federal governments.

“Spurring growth of New Brunswick businesses is instrumental to your government’s multi-year economic growth plan,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “This project will help Atlantic Potato Distributors increase productivity leading to new jobs for New Brunswickers.”

The company is adding a foil tray packing line to its operations. The new equipment will enable the company to increase its production, accept more orders and seek new market opportunities.

To support this project, the company is eligible to receive investments from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), the Regional Development Corporation and Opportunities NB, which 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.

“I am pleased that the Government of Canada, through ACOA, is supporting Atlantic Potato Distributor’s efforts to expand their operations and continue building northwestern New Brunswick’s reputation as a producer of world-class potatoes,” said Tobique-Mactaquac MP T.J. Harvey. “This investment in new, modernized equipment will help the company meet growing demand and increase their market exposure, which will ultimately be of benefit to our entire region.”

Harvey attended for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains, who is also minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

Opportunities NB is providing $78,700 in the form of a non-repayable contribution, while the Regional Development Corporation, under the Northern Economic Development and Innovation Fund, is providing a non-repayable contribution of $47,300.

The government estimates that the provincial capital investment will have a direct GDP impact of $701,697 with total tax revenue of $73,678 for the first year.

ACOA is providing a contribution of $114,500 through its Business Development Program.

“Investing in innovation has led to industry recognition for Atlantic Potato’s top quality and service,” said Mark Hanscome, company president and CEO. “These investments, with the support of our federal and provincial partners, have created additional orders leading to more and more jobs on the front lines.”

Founded in 1993, Atlantic Potato Distributors is a family-owned and operated business that farms over 1,100 acres in Victoria County and currently employs over 60 people. The company washes, grades and packs potatoes resulting in more than 50 private label products, using potatoes from over 35 local and American producers.