€3m to manufacture air conditioners

CANADA: An Ontario manufacturer of domestic heating appliances is to receive up to CAD$4,217,500 (€3m) to manufacture air conditioners.

The Government of Canada’s repayable contribution is aimed at helping Barrie-based Wolf Steel Ltd to expand its manufacturing capacity and create new jobs.

Wolf Steel, is a family business, founded in 1976 and operating under the Napoleon Group of Companies. It manufactures the Napoleon brand of wood and gas fireplaces, barbecue grills, heating and cooling products and outdoor living products.

The company’s expansion project includes: launching and manufacturing air conditioning products; expanding the existing line of heating and ventilation products; upgrading its four manufacturing facilities in Barrie to make them more energy and cost-efficient; and implementing information technology upgrades.

These initiatives will help the company to enhance productivity, diversify its products and strengthen its market appeal, giving it a global competitive edge.

Wolf Steel expects to create up to 176 full-time jobs at its four facilities in Barrie by 2017. The company currently has a staff of over 800 in the Barrie region, including 35 positions in research and development.