Province supports modernization project at Saint John brewery
SAINT JOHN (CNB) – The provincial government is making an investment to help Saint John-based Moosehead Breweries Ltd. continue an ongoing modernization project.
Energy Minister Jack Keir made the announcement today during a tour of the brewery, where he was joined by Moosehead Breweries Ltd. President Andrew Oland. He was speaking on behalf of Business New Brunswick Minister Victor Boudreau.
“Moosehead Breweries Ltd. has an exceptional product, and is a world player in a highly competitive market,” said Keir. “To continue to be competitive, this company needs to reduce its costs and focus on increasing efficiencies. This modernization project means Moosehead will have greater ability to ramp up production to maintain its place as a global competitor.”
The provincial government is providing a $3.5-million forgivable loan as part of Moosehead’s ongoing $35 million capital-investment program designed to improve manufacturing efficiency, to reduce energy and water consumption, to expand capacity and to update its quality-control equipment.
“Our company has been a fixture in Saint John since 1919, and for many generations, my family has consistently reinvested in our Saint John brewery,” said Oland. “Our family’s company competes against large, multi-national brewers 50 to 100 times Moosehead’s size. This financial support from the provincial government encourages Moosehead to continue investing in our brewery to help reduce costs while improving quality and providing product innovation for consumers.”
“This capital expansion project means Moosehead will continue to be a major player in this region’s economy as it works to hire local labourers, local contractors, and purchase equipment and supplies from local companies,” said Keir. “Our government is pleased to support one of the province’s most well-respected companies as it continues to improve its workplace and look for innovative ways to stay competitive.”
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