Province Supports Local Manufacturing Company, Good Jobs

An Amherst-based manufacturing company is growing its business, becoming more globally competitive and maintaining hundreds of good jobs in rural Nova Scotia.

Cumberland North MLA Brian Skabar, on behalf of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism Minister Percy Paris, announced today, April 26, the province will provide support to help the company expand, purchase new equipment and sustain more than 300 jobs in Nova Scotia.

"PolyCello is a family-owned business that's been in Amherst for more than 50 years, and now employs hundreds of Nova Scotians," said Mr. Skabar. "We want to create the conditions that will make sure they're here for at least another 50 years.

"It's important to help Nova Scotia businesses stay competitive, and supporting local employers like PolyCello to become even more successful is exactly what the jobsHere plan is designed to do."

PolyCello is an industry leader in flexible packaging. The company's products range from microwaveable to eco-friendly and compostable packaging.

The province is lending the company $7.1-million to help PolyCello finance a $10-million capital expansion, which includes the purchase of a new printing press. The new 10-colour press will allow the company to grow its operation, better meet customer demand for smaller print runs and expand into new export markets. The interest-bearing loan is repayable over 10 years.

"This state-of-the-art equipment will allow PolyCello to continue its leadership position in the flexographic industry -- both in Canada and the U.S.," said PolyCello president and CEO Stephen Emmerson. "Reinvesting in the latest technology is critical for all manufacturers, and PolyCello is no exception. This equipment is essential to our long-term sustainability, and we are very pleased with the province's support as we continue to grow and create future employment here in Amherst."

PolyCello employs more than 350 people at its two manufacturing facilities in Amherst and Belleville, Ontario.

"PolyCello has been a pivotal and highly appreciated part of Amherst for many years, providing employment opportunities for our residents," said Amherst Mayor Robert Small. "Today's announcement helps ensure PolyCello will continue to be a part of our community for a long time to come, and confirms PolyCello's and the province's commitment to our residents and the Town of Amherst."

The Nova Scotia Jobs Fund pursues investment opportunities for communities in transition, industry sectors, regional support, small business programs, infrastructure and large industrial ventures.