An Aldergrove wood processing firm will receive up to $300,000 to expand its factory and create seven new jobs as part of a provincial program.
Western Wood Preservers is expected to use the money to expand and renovate its facility to potentially double its production of treated lumber and move to year-round operations.
The money comes from the BC Manufacturing Job Fund (BCMJF), and it was announced on Friday, Nov. 17 alongside funding going to two Abbotsford manufacturers and an Agassiz plant.
In total, $1.3 million is going to four businesses in the Fraser Valley in the recently-announced funding.
“The funds are expediting the company’s plan to enhance its treating facility, which will result in increased employment to handle the increase in production capacity,” said Chris Carter, director of Western Wood Preservers. “Given the reduction in available fibre, our facility improvements will help extend the life of more wood products through pressure treating.”
“Wood-manufacturing companies, like those in the Fraser Valley, are creating B.C.’s next generation of forestry jobs,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests. “The projects announced today will bring additional technology and innovation into manufacturing operations and create family-supporting jobs. By investing in growing manufacturing companies, we are investing in people and communities.”
The BCMJF puts money into for-profit businesses that are ready to launch industrial and manufacturing projects that will support jobs and clean growth, according to the B.C. government.
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