The Government of Canada supports strong economic growth by investing in adopting new technologies by the eco-friendly wood pallet manufacturer.
December 6, 2022, Smithville, Ontario – The Government of Canada has announced an investment of $3 million in Niagara Pallet and Recyclers Ltd. (Niagara Pallet) to adopt new technologies that will allow the company to respond to wood pallet shortages in Canada and support the transition to a more sustainable and circular economy. According to the announcement, made by the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), this investment will also create 30 skilled jobs across the Niagara Region. is committed to investing in local businesses as they adapt, become more sustainable and create jobs for the future.
Located in Smithville, Niagara Pallet is a rural, family-run company that manufactures and repairs wood-related shipping materials, including wood pallets, for suppliers and distribution centres. With this investment, through the Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF), the company will implement new, first-in-Canada, custom automated systems to measure, sort and cut used wood pallets—allowing them to process more recycled pallets and identify a higher proportion for repair.
“We are excited to receive support from FedDev Ontario’s JGF program to allow us to develop and implement new technology in the repair and manufacture of wood pallets,” said Fred Vrugteveen, President, Niagara Pallet and Recyclers Ltd. “Thanks to FedDev Ontario’s funding Niagara Pallet is positioned to be the leader in supporting our local markets with wood pallets to move their products to the world. We are creating efficient and replicable business processes that will be used to showcase new technology in our industry.”
“Today’s investment in Niagara Pallet and Recyclers will create 30 skilled jobs and continue Canada’s path to be a global leader in cleaner and greener manufacturing,” added The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. “By making smart investments, we create good jobs and develop innovative solutions that will alleviate pressures on supply chains and support a growing economy that works for everyone.”
This investment will help Niagara Pallet meet industry demand, reduce waste, and contribute to a greener manufacturing industry and a strong economic future, the announcement concluded.
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