NEWS RELEASE
St. Thomas, Ontario – July 20, 2016

Bridges to Better Business to make 2016 the Year of the Dragon in St. Thomas/Elgin

Whether it’s helping millions of Canadians achieve personal financial success or investing in low-fat cookbooks, David Chilton has always had a knack for recognizing great ventures, a skill he leveraged as a “dragon” on CBC television’s #1 hit show, Dragons’ Den. Called “charming, unpretentious, and funny,” by The Chicago Sun-Times, David puts his business expertise and life experience to work in his informative and inspiring talks and on October 26th, 2016, the Elgin St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre will welcome him to St. Thomas for the 7th annual Bridges to Better Business event. Presented in partnership with Libro, the event is a celebration of small business in the community, with small business awards, a full dinner and the keynote from David Chilton, with tickets on sale now for only $25 each.

David began his career by self-publishing his book The Wealthy Barber in 1989. It was written in 26 months, and was specifically targeted toward those with little investment experience, in order to help them develop positive personal-finance habits. The book has become one of the most popular Canadian books of all time, selling over two million copies since its release.

His second book, also self-published, is The Wealthy Barber Returns, and is yet another runaway Canadian bestseller. David is also the publisher of the bestselling cookbooks Looneyspoons, Crazy Plates, and Eat, Shrink & Be Merry! (working with St. Thomas authors Janet and Greta Podleski).

The Elgin St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) is a division of the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation in partnership with Elgin County and the Province of Ontario. As a member of the provincial ONE Network, the SBEC is well-positioned to help small business at every stage. The Bridges to Better Business event is intended to encourage networking, recognition, education and collaboration for all members of the local business community and this year’s will be the largest one yet.

Event Details:
Bridges to Better Business
Wednesday, October 26th, 2016 4:30pm-8:30pm
St. Anne’s Centre - 20 Morrison Drive, Saint Thomas, ON N5R 4S6
Tickets: www.sbecinnovation.ca

Contact:
Tara McCaulley, SBEC Manager
(519) 631-1680 ext. 4503
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

News Release
St. Thomas, Ontario – Wednesday, July 20, 2016

St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation welcomes Mustang Products

The St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is very pleased to welcome one of Canada’s largest licensed goods suppliers to the City, as Mustang Products has purchased the property at 35 Currah Road in St. Thomas, formerly owned by Masco Canada (Brasscraft).

Founded in London, Ontario in 2003, Mustang is 100% Canadian owned and operated and provides a wide range of licensed products, ranging from apparel to drinkware to novelty items from some of the most recognizable brands in the world. The company’s expansive list of clients includes such brands as the NHL, the NBA, the NFL, Major League Baseball and even an exclusive contract for all beverageware provided for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics.

Mustang President Brad Sparling is excited with the direction the company is taking and said that “This move allows us to take advantage of St Thomas’ strong talent pool and cost-effective environment to continue to build the company into a leading provider of licensed products in Canada."

With a strong focus on innovation and a solution-based corporate value system that is driven by customer demand and service, Mustang takes familiar brands and brings them to life in products geared toward specific target audiences. Their in-house graphics and product development team, along with their ability to be versatile within their vertically integrated manufacturer/decorator environment allows Mustang to deliver on a variety of projects. Whether the need is a one-off custom design or a longer term national distribution and e-store program with warehousing and sales fulfillment need, Mustang can create the right solution.

St. Thomas Mayor Heather Jackson said “I couldn’t be happier to welcome Mustang Products to our community. Their investment in St. Thomas further demonstrates that our City is moving in the right direction and providing the services and business climate that companies need in order to grow.”

Mustang Products employs 30 people, with seasonal growth up to 50 people to meet the demands of their business. The company will begin the moving process in August and will be operational in St. Thomas this fall.

For further information, please visit www.mustangproduct.com.

Contact:
Sean Dyke, General Manager
St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation
(519) 631-1680 ext. 4104 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Schaeffler Canada investing $13.1 Million in Stratford, Ontario Expansion Project.

Ontario is partnering with Schaeffler Canada Inc. to invest in technology and grow its business, creating 44 new jobs and retaining 382 positions.

Schaeffler Canada designs and manufactures rolling bearings and related systems for the global automotive industry. With over $1.3 million in support from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, the company will add two assembly lines and purchase new equipment to increase automation, improve quality control and expand its production capabilities. The project has a total value of over $13.1 million and is expected to be completed by December 2018.

The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund is helping to create jobs and diversify the economy by encouraging regional businesses to pursue innovation and new markets. It was modelled on the proven Eastern Ontario Development Fund. Together these two funds are helping to create and retain more than 42,000 jobs and attract more than $1.9 billion in investment.

The funds cover up to 15 per cent of eligible project costs, with the recipient company funding the remainder from its own resources. This leveraging of private sector investment provides enhanced value for taxpayers.

Attracting new investment to Southwestern Ontario is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.

Ontario Partnering with North Star Windows and Doors in St. Thomas

Province Investing to Support Over 300 Jobs

Ministry of Economic Development and Growth

Ontario is partnering with North Star Windows and Doors to invest in plant upgrades and expansions to help the company grow its business, creating 140 new jobs and retaining 184 positions.

The company specializes in building windows and doors for commercial and residential consumers. Ontario is providing a conditional grant of over $1.2 million to help North Star Windows and Doors buy new equipment to adopt industry-leading processes for product development. This investment will also help North Star upgrade and expand its plant to increase production to meet rising demand in existing markets and enter new markets. The project has a total value of over $10 million and is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.

The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund is modelled on the proven Eastern Ontario Development Fund. Together these two funds are helping to create and retain more than 42,000 jobs and attract more than $1.9 billion in investment.

The funds cover up to 15 per cent of eligible project costs, with the recipient company funding the remainder from its own resources. This leveraging of private sector investment provides enhanced value for taxpayers.

Attracting new investment to southwestern Ontario is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.

Hino Motors Canada celebrates 10 years in Woodstock with a huge expansion on the radar

by Megan Stacey, Woodstock Sentinel-Review

It’s been 10 years since Hino Motors put down roots in Woodstock.

On Friday the company celebrated that milestone by reflecting on the past decade and looking towards a significant expansion that will begin in just a few weeks.

Hino Motors is part of the Toyota Group, manufacturing light and medium-duty trucks for domestic use.

“There’s another process that we’re bringing to Canada, and that’s called our cab trim line,” said plant manager Derek Holman. “We’re going to build it here instead of importing from Japan.”

That means Hino will need a bigger space.

“An expansion of 43,000 square feet at the back of the building…will start in two weeks time,” Holman said. The increase will create about nine new jobs at Hino.

Cabs for the cab trim line will come stripped down to the bare bones – rather than packaged with the doors, dash, floorboards and steering wheel inside as they are now.

“It’s going to be what we call a naked cab. Nothing inside. We will then have to dress the cab ourselves here,” Holman told the crowd during a plant tour. “It gives us an opportunity for costs savings in the future with more local purchasing. Second reason is it’s going to reduce the time it takes for a customer to receive a truck.”

The company’s emphasis on sourcing local parts was made clear during the plant tours.

“We do a lot of localization from parts that were initially sourced from Japan, for cost reduction and logistics reduction,” said Darren Mackey, assistant manager of manufacturing and technical support.

It's also helpful if problems arise.

“If there’s an issue with the product or the part, it can be dealt with in a more timely fashion,” said manufacturing coordinator Jamie Butcher. “We have come a long way as far as getting local suppliers, compared to when we first started.”

Hino’s growth over the past decade keeps the Woodstock plant humming.

“Assembly started here in Woodstock in 2006 with a small team of about 30 people. It has grown to almost 80 people today,” Holman said.

City of Woodstock development commissioner Len Magyar said the 10 years have flown by.

“I can remember…when we started about this facility potentially coming to Woodstock. It’s been a great ride, they’ve grown – so employment has grown – now they’re talking about expansion,” he said.

Having companies like Hino set up shop also helps to boost Woodstock’s reputation, Magyar said.

“A lot of people don’t understand how much manufacturing there actually is in the community. It creates a workforce that has a certain skill level that tends to attract other similar manufacturers,” he said.

There’s no sign of a slowdown at Hino. Production volume has ballooned over the past ten years.

“If we go back five years ago we were building three trucks a day, today we’re building 11 units,” Holman said.

Kevin Suzuki, manager of quality control, explained how workers ensure that all the trucks leaving the plant are top-notch quality.

“In as many places as possible...we’re actually hitting the bolts and seeing if they are loose,” he said, brandishing a small hammer. “What we want to ensure is the integrity of the build.”

Trucks with slightly loosened parts are even purposely put through quality control to make sure team members are catching any safety concerns.

They identify problems based on the noise of those bolt taps.

“Some of the sounds they pick up, it’s amazing. To my ears, it’s very difficult to hear,” Suzuki said, adding it takes about three years to master all those variations in sound.

Holman said all the employees at the Woodstock plant are extremely dedicated.

“The beauty of our trucks is they’re only sold in the domestic market. That means that every single truck we build, our team members see that truck if they’re driving down the road,” he said.

“There’s a sense of accomplishment and pride every time they see one of our units.”

Ontario gives Formet Industries $1M to add jobs in St. Thomas

Ontario will invest $1 million in an auto parts supplier in St. Thomas to create and retain jobs in the southwestern Ontario town.

The province announced on Thursday it will help Formet Industries develop new products and grow its business, creating 66 new jobs and retaining more than 1,300 positions.

The money will come from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund.

Formet is a manufacturing division of Cosma International, which in turn is part of Magna International, the world's second-largest auto supplier by sales.

In St. Thomas, the company makes automotive structural components that provide added strength and safety and a reduction in vehicle weight.

The company will supply the components to an automaker with operations in Ontario.

"The investment we're announcing today at our St. Thomas facility is part of our company's ongoing focus on using the latest materials, technologies and engineering innovation to offer body and chassis components that we believe set industry standards for structural integrity and lightweight performance," Formet Industries general manager Mark Johnson said in a news release.

"Ontario's innovative and broad-based supply chain is a key strength as the province competes globally for new auto assembly investment," Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure Brad Duguid said in the same release. "This project with Formet targets the skills we're working with the industry to develop — using the advanced production processes and lightweight materials required for the next generation of fuel-efficient vehicles."

Province Investing in Advanced Manufacturing Sector

NEWS March 15, 2016

Ontario is partnering with Steel Technologies to expand the company's Woodstock plant and invest in innovative technology, creating 15 new jobs and retaining 75 positions.

With more than $855,000 from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, Steel Technologies will expand its facility to meet increased demand for lightweight materials such as aluminum and advanced high strength steels. The company will install new equipment to increase efficiency and double production. Ontario's investment secures more than $8.5 million in private sector investment from Steel Technologies towards this project, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2018.

Steel Technologies is an industry leader in flat-rolled steel processing for the automotive, appliance, lawn and garden, agriculture, construction, office furniture, hardware and consumer goods industries. The Woodstock plant specializes in precision slitting and distribution of high carbon and alloy flat-rolled steel.

The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund is modelled on the proven Eastern Ontario Development Fund. Together these two funds are helping to create and retain more than 41,000 jobs and have attracted more than $1.8 billion in investment.

The funds typically cover up to 15 per cent of eligible project costs, with the recipient company funding the remainder from its own resources. This leveraging of private sector investment provides enhanced value for taxpayers.

Attracting new investment to Southwestern Ontario is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs.

The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.

QUOTE

"I am pleased Steel Technologies continues to innovate and expand its Woodstock operations, and bring new jobs to Southwestern Ontario. By supporting our manufacturing sector, the province is working hard to grow the economy and create good paying jobs."

- Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure

"Our government is delighted to support Steel Technologies' plans to expand its business and enhance the competitiveness of the Woodstock plant. Programs like the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund deliver targeted, strategic support to leverage new investment and help

Ontario businesses become more innovative and productive."

- Liz Sandals, MPP for Guelph

"I am pleased with today's announcement and am thrilled to see a local company continue to innovate so that they are ready for the next generation of manufacturing. On my recent business mission to Japan we visited with Mitsui to express our appreciation and pledge support to any future investments they may be considering which now makes this announcement even more special!"

- Mayor Trevor Birtch, City of Woodstock

"We are pleased to partner with the Ontario government on this project. At Steel Technologies, we are committed to delivering value-added products and services to our customers. The 64,000 square foot expansion at the Woodstock facility will give us the footprint we require to install new equipment allowing Steel Technologies to process advanced lightweight materials to meet growing demand."

- Mark Gemin, Vice-President, STC Steel Technologies Canada Ltd.

QUICK FACTS

• The Province's investment will help Steel Technologies add an additional 64,000 square feet to the existing 80,000 square foot Woodstock facility, doubling the plant's current production.

• Since October 2012, Ontario has committed to invest over $88 million through the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, leveraging private-sector investment of more than $1 billion. These investments are helping to create over 4,000 new jobs and retain more than 19,000 existing jobs in the region.

• Ontario is accepting applications for the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund from qualified businesses that are growing and creating jobs. Sectors eligible for the fund include advanced manufacturing, food processing, life sciences, information and communications technology, tourism and cultural industries.

• Attracting new investment is part of Ontario's Business Growth Initiative, which is helping to grow the economy and create jobs by promoting an innovation-based economy, helping small companies scale-up and modernizing regulations for businesses.

Land Sale Paves Way for New Plant

Bruce Chessell of the Sentinel Review

Woodstock city council approved the sale of 4.2 hectares (10.4 acres) of industrial land in its Bysham Park Business Community at last Thursday’s meeting.

The land will be purchased by Fritz Construction Services Inc., which has plans to construct a facility in 2016 that will employ approximately 25 people when opened later this year.

The purchase price for the property was $769,600 and should close by March 15.

According to a council report prepared by development commissioner Len Magyar, the company has a 40 year history of providing “innovative solutions to their customer base”.  The plant that will be opened in Woodstock will complement its existing facility in Chepstow, Ontario.  The plant will primarily manufacture products for the agricultural and commercial markets and the additional production capacity will allow the company to complete on a much larger scale, serving all of Ontario.

Fritz Construction has also negotiated a right to first refusal on a 3.3 hectare (8.2 acre) parcel immediately north of the lands they are acquiring in anticipation of expected future growth.  The planned building is expected to be a minimum of 6.574 square meters (60,000 square feet).

Town of Tillsonburg approves industrial land sale to Wise Line Metal Sales Inc

Tillsonburg Town Council approved the sale of seven acres of industrial land to Wise Line Metal Sales Inc at their February 8, 2016 Council meeting. The land sale will enable Wise Line Metal Sales to expand their operations through the construction of a new 30,000 square foot industrial building in the Town’s Van Norman Industrial Park.

Wise Line Metal Sales Inc is a custom manufacturer of metal siding, roofing, garages and steel products for the agricultural and construction industries. They have been in business for over ten years and are continuing to grow. As they are unable to expand at their current location, they are looking for a new location for their business. Staff has been working with representatives from Wise Line since 2015 to find a suitable location in Tillsonburg.

"We are pleased to announce that Wise Line Metal Sales will be relocating to Tillsonburg" says David Wieler, Co-owner. "Our business has been experiencing growing pains and a new building will enable our business to accommodate new and existing business while improving the efficiency and productivity of our operations", he adds.

"I am pleased to welcome Wise Line Metal Sales and their employees to the community on behalf of the Town," says Tillsonburg Mayor Stephen Molnar. "One of the goals identified in the Community Strategic Plan is providing a variety of employment opportunities in Tillsonburg and attracting Wise Line Metal Sales here supports growth across multiple sectors", he adds.

"Wise Line Metal Sales looks forward to supporting both existing and new customers at its future location" says Co-owner Dwight Steven, "many of our customers are located in the Greater Tillsonburg Area and this move will help us serve them better". "Our tool division offers a wide variety of products to meet agricultural, construction and contractor needs, and we look forward to adding to our product mix at our new location", he adds.

"The Town of Tillsonburg moved quickly to meet our needs and provide us with the information required to make this decision", says Co-owner Dan Wieler, "and based on our experience with the Economic Development Department, we would highly recommend them to other companies."

The land sale will facilitate approximately 20 jobs while providing for additional employment growth in the future. Construction is anticipated to start in Spring 2016 with occupancy by the end of the year.

About Tillsonburg

Located 90 minutes west of the Toronto area, Tillsonburg offers companies a strategic location in Ontario’s agriculture and manufacturing heartland. With low business and development costs, progressive policies and a high-speed fibre optic network, Tillsonburg is home to more than 600 regional, national and international companies. To find out more about Tillsonburg, visit www.tillsonburg.ca or www.DiscoverTillsonburg.ca.

CONTACT

Stephen Molnar, Mayor

Town of Tillsonburg

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

519.688.3009 ext.3234

 

Dave Wieler, Co-owner

Wise Line Metal Sales Inc

(519)773-2072

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

St. Thomas is Best in Show at Provincial Marketing Awards

#stthomasproud wins again - this time at the Provincial level

St. Thomas - February 8, 2016

Every year, the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) recognizes achievements in economic development marketing by presenting awards in the categories of business development, tourism and product development. In 2006, the annual Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Marketing Excellence in Ontario was introduced to honour the single most outstanding achievement made by an award recipient in these categories.  A decade later, the winner of this prestigious award is the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation (EDC), recognized for their community-driven #stthomasproud campaign.

This award, coupled with another for the use of Technology and New Media in Economic Development Marketing, made St. Thomas the big winners for 2015 and gave even more exposure to this popular grass roots campaign.

After happily congratulating staff on the win, EDC President Dennis Broome pointed out the shift in direction that the EDC as a Board has taken and noted that "We will always be working hard to market the City externally, but great strides have been made over the last several years to focus on both understanding, growing and sharing what we are so fortunate to have in St. Thomas. The success of this campaign is proof that we're on the right path."

Born out of negativity following the global economic downturn and since fueled by a resilient positivity, #stthomasproud has become commonplace on social media, sign boards and other marketing channels in the City and around the world.  

Representing the EDC Board at the event was EDC Vice President and St. Thomas City Councillor Linda Stevenson, who noted that "The event was very professional, with an electric atmosphere and the applause alone showed that our peers in economic development appreciated the significance of this campaign."

While the Technology and New Media Awards are grouped by population ranges, the Lieutenant Governor's Award looks at all of the marketing programs in the province and recognizes that which is deemed the best overall.  This is the first time St. Thomas has been awarded this honour.

Upon receiving the call that night, Mayor Heather Jackson was ecstatic and noted "To receive recognition at this level shows that the hard work and commitment of the great team at the St. Thomas EDC, along with the entire community, is working.  We are showing the world what a great place St. Thomas is to live, work and raise a family."

EDC General Manager Sean Dyke summarized it in saying "Given the incredible quality, reach and big budgets of some of the marketing campaigns developed in the province over the last year, our team was almost speechless when the announcement was made.  The Lieutenant Governor's award is the pinnacle of recognition for economic development marketing in Ontario. We all wear a passion for our community on our sleeves and emotions ran high when we heard them say that St. Thomas was the winner. We are extremely happy and honoured to be recognized with this award, largely because we know it's not just us who make this work.  We share this honour with our entire community and could not be more St. Thomas Proud."

Background 

Established in 1957, the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation is among the oldest of its kind in North America.  With a mandate to improve the quality of life in St. Thomas, the #stthomasproud campaign fit well within that mission.  The EDC has a staff complement of five people who work in three separate areas of responsibility: Economic Development, Railway City Tourism and the Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre.  The organization is overseen by a 15-member Board of Directors, made up of all of St. Thomas City Council, two representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, one representing Labour, one from Ascent and three members at large from the community.

For further information, please contact:

Sean Dyke, General Manager 

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

519-631-1680 ext. 4104 (office)

519-319-9604 (mobile)

www.stthomasproud.ca

www.st-thomasedc.on.ca 

www.railwaycitytourism.com

www.sbecinnovation.ca

Please find attached the next edition of the Tillsonburg Economic Development newsletter 'Tillsonburg Connects'! 

In this issue read about:

Page 1 - New Tillsonburg Automation Company Supports Shift to Industry 4.0

       Page 2 - J/E Bearing Receives its Largest CNC Machine

       Page 3  - Available real estate opportunities:

             37 Tillson St – Up to 8,497 SF of industrial space available

             610 Broadway – 0.67 Commercial Development site available

       Page 3 – Annual EmployerOne Survey Scheduled to be Released in January

 

       Page 4  - Find out about Industry 4.0 and what it could mean for your business

Plus other great articles!

 

To view Tillsonburg Connects, click here

September 17th,  2015

Town of Tillsonburg Rejoins the Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance

After a two year hiatus, the Town of Tillsonburg recently recommitted to annual membership in the Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance  (SOMA). The Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance is one of the longest established regional marketing organizations in the Province of Ontario which caters to the needs of small and mid-size municipalities seeking foreign direct investment opportunities. Current members of SOMA include Aylmer, Ingersoll, Stratford, St. Thomas, Tillsonburg and Woodstock.

“It is with great pride that we welcome Tillsonburg back into the organization and we look forward to their active participation in delivering a foreign direct investment program that fits the needs of all of the member communities”, says Len Magyar, President. “There is no question that by working collaboratively our member municipalities can deliver their ‘investment ready’ message much further afield and much more economically than they can hope to do on their own”, he adds.

Membership in SOMA offers communities access to approximately five foreign trade events, membership in several other regional economic organizations and their activities as well as any investment missions that SOMA leads. According to Magyar, municipalities going it alone would have to spend 4 to 5 times more than the price of membership in SOMA to achieve the same level of activity so in a cost conscious environment it
just makes sense to cooperate with similar minded partners. “In our past experience, SOMA was very successful in generating a large number of leads and contacts for their members, including Tillsonburg; however, there were some challenges in terms of managing these opportunities, says Tillsonburg Development Commissioner Cephas Panschow. “With a new strategic plan and a commitment to immediately implement a number of the key action items, including more assistance to complete the necessary follow up on investment opportunities,

Tillsonburg believes that there is an increased likelihood of realizing investment from SOMA’s activities.” Mayor Stephen Molnar of Tillsonburg affirmed that he has been impressed with the work that SOMA has done in the past and looks forward to opportunities where he can once again be actively involved. “SOMA has very effectively leveraged partnership resources and Tillsonburg has historically benefitted from this cooperative model to economic development. SOMA as a collective group of municipalities is able to identify potential development opportunities and participate in strategic meetings with clients who are involved in the site selection process.” Molnar indicates that Tillsonburg is looking forward to being actively involved with SOMA programs again and benefiting from the leads the organization generates for the community.

-30-

CONTACTS:

Len Magyar
President – Southwestern Ontario
Marketing Alliance (SOMA)

(519) 539-2382 ext. 2112

OR

Cephas Panschow
Development Commissioner
Town of Tillsonburg

(519)688-3009 ext. 3250

                     

Ontario number one water patent jurisdiction in the world according to Water Technology Acceleration Project (WaterTAP)

WaterTAP Ontario and Ontario Clean Technology Alliance invite more global companies to take advantage of province’s robust water industry ecosystem

München DE, IFAT 2014 – May 5, 2014 – Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, has granted more water-related industry patents over the past 30 years than any other comparable government jurisdiction in the world, according to the Water Technology Acceleration Project – WaterTAP. With 10% more clean technology companies than any other province in the country, and 900 water-industry-specific companies, the Ontario government’s Water Sector Strategy also includes targeted provisions for growing the water industry and maintaining its position as a global water innovation leader.

Ontario-based WaterTAP helps connect global companies with the resources they need to successfully enter water technology markets. Along with representatives of the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance ­– a collective of regional and municipal economic development organizations across Ontario – WaterTAP executives are attending IFAT 2014, the world’s leading trade fair for water, sewage, waste and raw materials management, in München, Germany. Their objective is to invite more international companies to take advantage of an Ontario ecosystem that is supported by dedicated research centres, incubators, accelerators and programs that encourage innovative water and wastewater technologies and services.

“WaterTAP exists to champion and support Ontario’s status as a world water technology hub. The WaterTAP team brings private sector experience to the challenge of helping water technology entrepreneurs, utilities and investors make the connections and find the resources they need to keep our water sector prospering,” said Dr. Brian Mergaelas, WaterTAP’s CEO.

“WaterTAP also encourages Ontario’s municipal water utilities to tackle common challenges together to provide guidance and market pull for innovative products and services,” said Sean Dyke, Director – Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance (SOMA), and Chair of the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance.

A municipal example of water industry synergy within the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance is the City of Burlington, located in Halton Region on the shores of Lake Ontario. The city is home to the Canada Centre for Inland Waters, Wastewater Technology Centre and the birthplace of ZENON Environmental before its purchase by General Electric in 2006. Today, General Electric Water & Process Technologies occupies one-third of the Centre’s 5,500 square metre space for ongoing R&D. Specialized facilities include research and operational laboratories, in-house pilot plant demonstration facilities for wastewater and biosolids processing and advanced treatment, mechanical workshop and warehouse facilities, and an on-line sewage loop from an adjacent wastewater treatment plant.

Burlington is also home to 253 water-related businesses including Anaergia (global head office), Eco Waste Solutions (North American Head Office), and Endress+Hauser Canada Ltd. (Canadian head office).

Ontario’s deep pool of water expertise also includes:

• The Hamilton-based United Nations University - Institute for Water, Environment and Health, which acts as the UN's think-tank on water
• The Burlington-based National Water Research Institute, which is the largest fresh water science organization in Canada
• The Waterloo-based Canadian Water Network, that connects Canadian and international water researchers with decision-makers  engaged in water management issues
• The University of Waterloo-based Water Institute, an internationally recognized water research leader

About the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance

The Ontario Clean Technology Alliance offers a highly educated workforce, excellent growth opportunities, a low-risk business environment, and generous R&D tax credits that are the envy of other countries. The Alliance includes Durham Region, Halton Region, Ottawa Region, City of Hamilton, Waterloo Region, Windsor-Essex, City of Guelph and the Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance. Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada as well as the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Employment are Alliance partners. For more information, go to www.ontariocleantechalliance.com

Ontario Clean Technology Alliance media contacts:

Sean Dyke
Director – Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance (SOMA)
and Chair of the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance
Phone: 011-519-631-1680, ext. 4104
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Paul Brent
Senior Communications Strategist
market2world communications inc.
Phone: 011-613-256-3939
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Ontario's clean tech ecosystem thrives thanks to Sustainable Development Technology Canada

Hannover DE, HANNOVER MESSE 2014 – April 7, 2014 – As a key contributor to the dominant concentration of clean technology companies in Ontario, Canada, Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is energizing the development and demonstration of a clean technology ecosystem that international clean tech companies can and should take advantage of.

The 2014 Canadian Clean Technology Industry Report by Analytica Advisors states that 35% of clean tech companies in Canada are located in Ontario – 10% more than in any other Canadian province. 86 of 246 SDTC-funded projects to date are funded in Canada's largest province, which is also home to the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance ­– a collective of regional and municipal economic development organizations across Ontario – that is attending HANNOVER MESSE, the world's leading trade fair for industrial technology including energy and environmental innovations.

"With over $600 million allocated over 246 technology projects across Canada, SDTC has successfully leveraged an additional $2.2 billion in funding from project partners including global clean technology companies," said Jim Mairs, Senior Business Development Consultant/Assistant  anager for the City of Guelph's Economic Development, Finance & Enterprise Services, an Ontario Clean Technology Alliance member. "Ontario has attracted more SDTC funding than any other province in Canada. Ontario's clean technology sector also offers a world-leading, highly educated talent base, a low-risk business environment, and generous targeted tax credits to global clean energy, clean technology and environmental companies seeking growth."

SDTC's SD Tech Fund™ is currently accepting statements of interest until April 16, 2014. International clean tech companies can take advantage as consortium members through partnerships, limited partnerships or business trusts with incorporated Canadian companies. SDTC provides investment into the development and demonstration phases of clean technologies, helping prove the viability of the technology in a real-world setting. SDTC typically contributes about 33% of eligible project costs, typically ranging from several hundred thousand to several million dollars, with consortia members, including industry and end-use customers, active as well in financing and guiding the project to commercialization. More information on the fund is available at www.sdtc.ca.

Recent SDTC clean technology investments within the member cities and regions of the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance include: ·

• SiREM Labs of Guelph, Ontario. SDTC funded demonstration of the first Canadian application of KB-1® for in situ biodegradation of chlorinated solvents in cold groundwater and fractured bedrock conditions to show that bioaugmentation with KB-1® can be a cost-effective cleanup strategy for PCE and TCE contaminated sites, particularly under Canadian climatic and fractured bedrock site conditions.
• BIOX Canada Ltd. of Hamilton, Ontario. SDTC funded demonstration of a technology to convert agricultural seed oil, cooking oils/grease, animal tallows and fats into biodiesel at atmospheric pressure and near-ambient temperatures, resulting in considerably lower production costs, making biodiesel competitive with petroleum diesel.

About the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance

The Ontario Clean Technology Alliance offers a highly educated workforce, excellent growth opportunities, a low-risk business environment, and generous R&D tax credits that are the envy of other countries. The Alliance includes Durham Region, Halton Region, Ottawa Region, City of Hamilton, Waterloo Region, Windsor-Essex, City of Guelph and the Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance. Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada as well as the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development,Trade and Employment are Alliance partners. For more information, go to www.ontariocleantechalliance.com

Ontario Clean Technology Alliance media contacts:

Jim Mairs
Senior Business
Development Consultant/Assistant Manager
City of Guelph, Economic Development
Finance & Enterprise Services
Phone: +1 519-837-5600 ex.2821
Cell: +1 226-820-3185
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jill McCubbin
Conversation Architect
market2world communications inc.
Phone: +1 613-256-3939
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

IDI Signs Leases Totaling 99,260 SF at Commerce Way Business Park

Two New Tenants in 456,000 SF Ontario Business Park

ATLANTA, November 5, 2013– IDI, a leading full-service industrial real estate company, announced today two leases at its Commerce Way Business Park in Ontario. The leases, in Woodstock Building H and Woodstock Building A, contribute to the 456,077 square feet that have already been developed in the business park serving the Southwest Ontario market.

IDI's Commerce Way Business Park, located in the southwest Ontario market, is in close proximity to Highway 401 and Highway 403. AGCO Corporation (www.agcocorp.com ), a global leader focused on the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery, relocated to be closer to its customers and transportation infrastructure. The 67,010-square-foot lease at Woodstock Building H will be used for storage, warehousing and distribution of agricultural equipment and related parts, as well as serve as a training center. Building H has 185,490 square feet available for lease.

Day & Ross, Inc, a third-party logistics provider, leased 32,250 square feet in Woodstock Building A for the storage, warehousing and distribution of automotive parts. The new space in the Commerce Way Business Park is near the company's customer base and close to an existing Day & Ross facility. Building A has 26,019 square feet available for lease.

"These deals reflect IDI's commitment to its customers to provide smart locations as well as strong facilities to maintain a competitive advantage in market," said Jeff Lanaghan, vice president of leasing and development in IDI's Chicago office. "Commerce Way Business Park is an example of growth in the Ontario market and we look forward to providing long-term value for current and future tenants."

Mitch Blaine, Randy Fisher and Larin Shouldice of CBRE represented IDI in both deals. Michael Black, also with CBRE, represented AGCO Corporation and Randy Fisher represented Day & Ross, Inc.

Commerce Way Business Park consists of two buildings totaling approximately 456,000 square feet across the 25 acre park. Other tenants at Commerce Way Business Park include: Miller Zell, Ancra and Scholastic Books.

Since the market began improving from the recession in mid-2011, IDI has started or delivered more than 12 million square feet in 11 states and has been the first to market with new inventory space in several cities.

About IDI

With nearly 7 million square feet currently under development, IDI is one of the largest privately-held real estate companies in North America focused exclusively on industrial property. The company, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, provides development, investments, property management and leasing services to corporations, property owners, investors, financial institutions and real estate service providers. IDI has ownership or interests in 45 million square feet of investment grade assets, with $2 billion in company-owned and joint venture assets.

Since the company's founding in 1989, IDI has built a reputation for delivering superior quality properties and service. To date, IDI has developed and acquired 170 million square feet of industrial space and completed more than 700 industrial facilities in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The company's joint-venture investment portfolio, focused on building long-term value, holds more than 17 million square feet of assets and manages a portfolio of 70 million square feet.

Government of Canada Supports Expansion of Auto Parts Manufacturer in Woodstock

Woodstock, Ontario - NASG Canada Inc. (North American Stamping Group, NASG) has been awarded a large investment to expand capacity at its Woodstock auto parts manufacturing facility. The funding was announced today by Dave MacKenzie, Member of Parliament for Oxford, on behalf of the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).

"Our Government is committed to supporting the growth of the manufacturing industry," said MP MacKenzie. "This investment in NASG Canada Inc. will bring skilled manufacturing jobs back to southern Ontario, create long-term stability for Woodstock, and support an important sector of Canada's export economy."

Through FedDev Ontario's Prosperity Initiative, NASG Canada Inc. is receiving a repayable investment of up to $2,488,875 towards the total project cost of $10.9 million to expand its operations. As part of this expansion, the company will create tool and die manufacturing at its Woodstock facility. This expansion will also establish in-house research and development (R&D) capabilities. As a result, NASG will produce more cost-effective and higher quality prototypes for its clients. The new capacity for R&D will enable NASG Canada Inc. to design and develop components that use lighter weight materials which will improve fuel economy in the automotive sector.

"We are very appreciative of the Government's support of this project, and their understanding of the challenges that the Canadian manufacturing industry faces," said Fred Gehring, General Manager, NASG Canada. "The decision to expand our Canadian operation, with the addition of our tool & die business unit, is a direct reflection of the confidence we have in our associates. Our team has and will continue to develop by working together to overcome any challenges we face. This has been demonstrated by the confidence our customers have in us and the support of our board of directors for this our seventh expansion in the last 28 years at our Woodstock location."

The Woodstock, Ontario NASG facility is a wholly owned subsidiary of Cambridge Investments Inc., which is based in Oakville, Ontario. First incorporated in 1985 under the name Woodstock Stampings Inc., the company was renamed NASG Canada Inc. in 2011.

Currently, NASG Canada outsources its tool and die manufacturing internationally. This project will return jobs to Canada, creating up to 65 skilled jobs in Woodstock. In addition, it will result in high-value auto parts exports for international markets and a more competitive auto manufacturing sector.

FedDev Ontario's Prosperity Initiative, as part of the Southern Ontario Advantage initiatives, is encouraging businesses, not-for-profit organizations and post-secondary institutions in southern Ontario to undertake projects resulting in a more productive, diversified and competitive economy in the region.

To date, over $420 million in funding has been committed to over 240 projects under the Southern Ontario Advantage initiatives, resulting in partnerships with more than 5,000 organizations, and over $1.2 billion in additional leveraged investments from almost exclusively non-government sources.

Created in 2009, FedDev Ontario supports the southern Ontario economy by building on the region's strengths and creating opportunities for jobs and economic growth. In Budget 2013, the Government of Canada demonstrated its continued commitment to workers, families and communities in southern Ontario with the renewal of FedDev Ontario. Economic Action Plan 2013 provides $920 million over five years for the Agency, starting on April 1, 2014. As part of the renewal, FedDev Ontario will be allocating $200 million over five years for a new Advanced Manufacturing Fund in Ontario.

As outlined by the Prime Minister, the Government of Canada remains focused on what Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and their personal financial security.

To learn more, please visit www.FedDevOntario.gc.ca or call 1-866-593-5505.

Follow us on Twitter @FedDevOntario

- 30 -

For more information, contact:

Stephanie Thomas
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Gary Goodyear
613-960-7728

Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
416-954-6652

Len Magyar, Development Commissioner,
Phone: (519) 539-2382 Ext 2112, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

 

WOODSTOCK, ON - December 10, 2012 - The North American Stamping Group is pleased to announce expansion plans for our automotive stamping plant located in Woodstock. The expansion will consist of 70,000 square feet of additional warehousing and manufacturing space as well as 2,500 square feet of new associate facilities and office space. The anticipated growth in the plant, facilities and equipment will amount to a significant investment into the community.

This venture is needed to support new business growth, design engineering and development of tooling for our six manufacturing locations in Canada, the United States & Mexico. We anticipate this growth will generate 50 to 60 new highly skilled jobs in production, tool & die and design. There will also be additional local jobs that will be generated by the construction project itself.  Directors commented, "This growth reflects our continued investment in our business and community. This expansion has been made possible through the support of our customers and the incredible work ethic and dedication of our associates who always find a way to get a challenging job done."

Woodstock Mayor Pat Sobeski congratulated the company by saying "the City of Woodstock is especially excited about this announcement as it is an important strategic investment by a multi-national company bringing a number of quality employment opportunities to our community. I know staff and Council have been working closely with NASG for a number of months to help secure this significant investment in Woodstock and I am very pleased to hear the project is moving forward".

ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN STAMPING GROUP

North American Stamping Group  was formed in 1968. We are a manufacturing organization supplying a very competitive automotive market with medium to high volume, stamped metal components and welded assemblies. Our strategic locations within North America allow us the manufacturing footprint to cover you in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Please visit www.nasg.net for more information.

Contact:
Fred Gehring, General Manager
North American Stamping Group
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
519-539-7491

 

### 

St. Thomas Raises a Glass - Railway City Brewing Company Announces Expansion into Larger Facility

There are some exciting things brewing over at Railway City Brewing Company, and if they have their way, there's going to be a few more Dead Elephants coming out of St. Thomas, Ontario.

The company will be making a big move next year, but they won't be going too far. It was announced on Tuesday that they will be moving their business and expanding into a larger location that will allow them to increase production and further meet the demands of their ever-increasing customer base.

Scheduled to open in 2013, the new brewery will feature an expanded production facility for cans, bottles and draft beer, a larger retail store to better serve the walk-in crowd and a tasting room large enough to hold special events.

Railway City Brewing Company currently employs 10 full and part time staff working out of its brewing facility on Curtis Street in St. Thomas. The company expects to hire more employees when the new facility is completed.

Railway City is one of the many small craft brewers reaping the benefits of an exploding microbrew market in this province. While beer sales overall have fallen 2% to 3% in the past couple of years, the market for craft beer continues to grow, jumping 9% in volume of beer sold last year, according to the Ontario Craft Breweries, a trade group for independent brewers based in Ontario.

Dennis Broome, President of the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation (EDC) noted that "We are fortunate to have Railway City Brewing Company here in St. Thomas. This announcement represents growth in a sector in which the EDC sees a great deal of potential and I look forward to hearing more great things from the company in the future."

Railway City Brewing said in a release that demand has been outpacing supply in recent years, noting that the brewery was sold out of many brands throughout the summer and was unable to fill some of their customers' orders. This expansion is necessary both to keep up with current demand and to provide capacity for projected long-term growth.

You can find Railway City beer at many LCBO stores, bars and restaurants from Windsor to Ottawa, but for the best selection, we recommend a visit to the brewery to sample, tour and purchase their other brands which are not available elsewhere. Paul Corriveau, V.P. Sales and Marketing added "We pride ourselves in featuring as many local ingredients as possible in our beer, including locally grown hops, apples, honey, and even pears which are featured in our newest Hoptoberfest Beer. This expansion will allow us the opportunity to continue to create more locally inspired brews".

St. Thomas Mayor Heather Jackson congratulated the company and noted that "The move to the much larger facility will bring a boost to the St. Thomas economy, creating new jobs and opportunities for local residents. The Railway City name, along with brands that include Dead Elephant, Iron Spike and Black Coal help to solidify St. Thomas' place as the Railway Capital of Canada and this growth can only help to spread that message even further."

The current location at 168 Curtis Street will stay open until the new brewery is up and running sometime next year. The company offers sampling and tours at their location and encourages visitors to stop by and sample their many varieties of quality craft beer.

For further information, please contact:

Paul Corriveau

Railway City Brewing Company

(p) 519.631.1881

(c) 519.709.9753

For Immediate Release

Author: Execulink Telecom
Industry: Telecommunications

August 9, 2012 - As Execulink Telecom continues to grow with new products and services, a decision has been made to build their Company Headquarters and state of the art Data Centre in Woodstock, Ontario. 

CEO of Execulink, Ian Stevens expresses; "With a long history in Oxford County, Woodstock is an ideal location in relation to our customer base. The consolidation and the growth of our new facilities will enhance our internal efficiencies and better support our customers". The new office building will be located at 1143 Ridgeway Road and expect to be operational in the first half of 2013.

Mayor Pat Sobeski welcomes the official announcement of Execulink's plans for the facility in Woodstock and indicated that "this investment continues our long term strategy of diversifying the economic base of the community.  Execulink's decision to build this facility in Woodstock will provide the company with many internal efficiencies and at the same time reflects the inherent advantages that a Woodstock business location can offer."

Development Commissioner Len Magyar congratulated Execulink on their choice of Woodstock for the new facility.  Building on a fully serviced industrial "signature site" in the Pattullo Ridge Business Park will provide the company with an opportunity to showcase their brand to the people traveling the highway 401 corridor. Magyar indicated that they have an aggressive schedule for the construction project and city staff will continue to work with Execulink to ensure they meet their targets for occupying the new facility. 

More information about Execulink's new Woodstock presence can be directed to the following contacts below.

About Execulink

In operation since 1904, Execulink Telecom has evolved from a small independent local telephone company into one of the leading telecommunications providers in Ontario. Through innovation and forward-thinking, we cultivated our local telephony offerings to provide a full-scale suite of telecommunications services including data, internet, cable television, and advanced voice features. These services are now available to all levels of industry, encompassing 50,000 business, enterprise, government, and residential customers. 

Contacts:

Ian Stevens
CEO of Execulink Telecom Inc.
619 Main Street North, Burgessville, Ontario
work 519.456.7800
www.execulink.ca 

Larry Walters
Director Marketing & Service Development
236 Victoria ST. N.
Kitchener, ON N2H 5C8
work 519.576.3334, x482
cell 519.591-8327
www.execulink.ca

Mayor Pat Sobeski
City of Woodstock
500 Dundas Street, PO Box 1539
Woodstock, ON  N4S 0A7
work 519.539.2382, x2100
cell 519.788.0809
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 


Len Magyar
Development Commissioner
City of Woodstock
work 519.539.2382, x 2112
cell. 519.532.3686
www.cometothecrossroads.com

Sysco Plans to Construct Distribution Center in Commerce Way Business Park

Woodstock, Ontario (July 26, 2012) -- The City of Woodstock has reached an agreement to sell 57 acres of vacant industrial land in the Commerce Way Business Park to Sysco Canada, where it plans to build a 400,000-square foot (37,160 m²), state-of-the-art food distribution facility. Construction is expected to start as early as this fall.

Mayor Pat Sobeski welcomed the official announcement of Sysco's investment in the community by saying, "We are extremely pleased to be able to confirm that Sysco has selected Woodstock for this important investment.  Sysco is a Fortune 75 company, and their decision to invest in Woodstock says plenty about the benefits our community can offer a new or expanding business."

"Sysco Canada is pleased to be locating our newest facility in this region to Woodstock and the Commerce Way Business Park," said Rodney Stroud, market president of Sysco Canada-East and president of Sysco Central Ontario. "This reinforces our commitment to be our Ontario customers' most valued and trusted business partner. We are excited about the location, the surface-roads infrastructure, and the ability to serve our current customers and grow our business from a state-of-the-art distribution center."

Sysco has agreed to pay approximately $2.7 million (CND) for the land. Plans call for Sysco's facility to have approximately 89,000 square feet of freezer space; 49,000 square feet of cooler space; 41,000 square feet of cold dock space; a 101,000-square foot dry warehouse; a 31,000-square foot dry dock; 17,000 square feet for material handling and equipment storage; and 67,000 square feet of office space.

Mayor Sobeski noted "this investment is an excellent example of Woodstock's ongoing efforts to diversify the local economy."

City staff worked diligently to secure the Sysco investment for well over a year. Through the process, Woodstock advanced from a long list of prospective communities to a short list of locations that were invited to respond to a formal request for proposal, and ultimately to a preferred site for the company's investment.

Development Commissioner Len Magyar welcomed Sysco to Woodstock's business community noting, "This announcement is great news for our community on so many fronts. This investment represents a significant land sale, a huge construction project and the creation of good paying jobs. As a bonus the investment comes from a company (Sysco) with a great reputation and a long-term commitment to doing business in southern Ontario".

Sysco Corporation, headquartered in Houston, Texas, sells, markets and distributes food products to restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments and other customers who prepare meals away from home, primarily in the United States and Canada. Its family of products also includes equipment and supplies for the foodservice and hospitality industries. The company operates 177 distribution facilities serving approximately 400,000 customers. For the fiscal year 2011 that ended July 2, 2011, the company generated record sales of more than $39 billion.

 

City of Woodstock Contacts

Mayor Pat Sobeski, City of Woodstock
Phone: (519) 539-2382
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Len Magyar, Development Commissioner
Phone: (519) 539-2382 Ext 2112
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Sysco Contact

Charley Wilson, Vice President-Corporate Communications
Phone: (281) 584-2423
Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

June 5, 2012

Woodstock, ON - The Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance (SOMA) is pleased to be exhibiting at InterSolar North America in San Francisco from July 10 - 12. InterSolar is one of the largest solar energy shows in North America with over 200 exhibitors and over 22,000 attendees expected.  

The goal for this trip is to make contact with new and expanding companies in the renewable energy sector. In this regard, SOMA has embarked upon an exciting new initiative to increase traffic at its booth and also to make contact with attendees prior to the show.  The new initiative involves matching a traditional pre-show mailer with an online social media campaign on Facebook and Twitter.

To this end, SOMA is inviting interested parties to "Like" them on Facebook at Invest SOMA Region or "Follow" #WINwithSOMA on Twitter for a chance to win a Blackberry Playbook.  Company representatives will be given one entry for any of these contacts made, but visitors to the booth who also "Like" or "Follow" SOMA will be given additional entries into the contest. 

"We are excited about this new way of engaging potential investors", says SOMA President Bill Mates, "and this shows that SOMA is committed to continuous improvement both as an organization and individually as members."  "We look forward to meeting new companies at our booth at InterSolar and invite current and new contacts to join us online" he adds.

About SOMA:

The SOMA region, known as Ontario's Heartland, is a globally competitive region evidenced by low business costs, a knowledge based economy and a strategic location between Toronto and Detroit as well as 3 major border crossings.  With investment support offices in Europe and Asia and an extensive network of US and global partners, SOMA is able to offer strategic advice to companies considering new investment locations.  With key access to Canada's largest market as well as the US north-east and midwest, SOMA offers investors the necessary ingredients for success!

For more information:

Bill Mates, President
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

December 2, 2010

Tillsonburg, ON ­The Town of Tillsonburg is pleased to confirm that Siemens Canada has selected Tillsonburg as the new home for their Canadian wind turbine blade manufacturing facility.

The facility will be the company’s first blade manufacturing site in Ontario and is expected to create up to 300 direct jobs and 600 related positions for the construction and commissioning during the build­out of the wind farms in the province. The company will be establishing manufacturing in an existing 253,000 square foot facility, located at 1 Clearview Drive.

Mayor John Lessif commented, “The Town of Tillsonburg welcomes Siemens Canada. They are a leader in renewable energy technology and their commitment to our community is extremely rewarding. It is thrilling that Tillsonburg was selected for the Siemens’ first wind turbine blade manufacturing site in Ontario. The value of this economic contribution for Tillsonburg in particular and the region in general is welcome news.”

CAO Kelley Coulter stated, “Siemens is a highly regarded firm. The employment opportunities for the Town is terrific news. The economic contributions to the Town, directly and indirectly, will be exciting.”

For More Information Contact:

John Lessif, Mayor Kelley Coulter, CAO

(519) 842­6428 (3234) (519)­842­6428 (3227) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

November 30, 2011 

Tillsonburg, ON - The Town of Tillsonburg is pleased to welcome MURADO International to the community! MURADO International is a Canadian owned and operated manufacturer of solid wood composite flooring products that are sold under the KOR-ITE brand.

MURADO has leased 10,000 square feet of space at 1444 Bell Mill Road (the former RONA building) just south of Highway 3. They currently employ 6 people from the Tillsonburg area and are forecasting a doubling of that over the next few years.

 

MURADO chose Tillsonburg based on its central location for their business. They will be opening in Tillsonburg in January 2012.

 “The Town of Tillsonburg offers a great location for our business based on its proximity to our workforce as well as its central location in the heart of South-western Ontario”, says Andrew Muir VP Sales and Marketing. “We look forward to growing our company in this progressive community as our products gain acceptance in the marketplace”, he adds.

“We officially welcome MURADO International to the Town and look forward to them being a long term member of our business community”, says Tillsonburg Mayor John Lessif. “This commitment helps spread the word that Tillsonburg is open for business to all companies, big or small, and we greatly value this investment”. The community looks forward to further diversifying the mix of employers and businesses in the community.

 “MURADO decided to locate along the strategic Highway 3 corridor, which highlights the importance that employers and investors place on access in their site selection process”, adds CAO Kelley Coulter.

 “I am pleased with today’s announcement as it shows once again that Tillsonburg is on the radar for manufacturing investment", says Development Commissioner Cephas Panschow. “We have been working to raise Tillsonburg’s profile for investment and this success shows that our efforts continue to bear fruit.”

About MURADO International

MURADO International manufactures and sells residential and commercial plank-style wood flooring and ceramic tile click flooring under the brand name KOR-ITE. The KOR-ITE technology uses 100% Canadian recycled wood to produce both of these non-laminate synthetic flooring solutions. KOR-ITE also provides contract CNC panel saw cutting and finishing services. For further information visit the company at their website http://koriteflooring.com.  

About Tillsonburg 

The Town of Tillsonburg is a progressive and growing town of 16,000 persons. Tillsonburg is strategically located in the centre of Ontario’s agriculture and manufacturing heartland with easy access to Highway 401, Canada’s Trade Corridor, and offers some of the lowest development and operating costs in Ontario.

 

For More Information Contact:

Mayor John Lessif                  Kelley Coulter, CAO               Andrew Muir, VP Marketing
519-688-3009, x3234              519-688-3009, x3227              (519)572-1702
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.              This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.          This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

March 28, 2011

(Reprinted from the Woodstock Sentinel Review)

There was some uplifting news Wednesday for Woodstock's stalled manufacturing sector. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada announced it's 400 new jobs in the Friendly City by boosting its production of the RAV4.

"That's good news," Mayor Pat Sobeski said. "It's also an indication that things are starting to pick up."

The increase in production capacity will bump up the vehicles produced at the Woodstock plant from 150,000 to 200,000, with an $80-million investment.

In a release, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada chairperson Ray Tanguay said he was optimistic about the plant's future.

"We're grateful for the strong sales of the RAV4 in the North American market, which has created this increase in production and jobs," Tanguay said.

The increased production is scheduled to begin in early 2013.

Currently, the plant has 2,000 workers.

Sobeski said the announcement is likely linked to a government investment of $141.6 million in Toyota dating back to 2011 that was intended to keep jobs there secure.

"It's good to see some of (that investment) coming towards Woodstock," he said.

Woodstock's economic development commissioner Len Magyar welcomed the news of the ramped-up production.

"Obviously it's good news. More people working is always a good sign," he said. "It speaks to how great a community Woodstock is to invest in."

Magyar said the increase in volume will have a spinoff effect on the seven Toyota suppliers located in Woodstock.

"It gives security to suppliers," he said. "It may not necessarily increase the number of jobs, it's hard to say."

Meanwhile, Magyar said new economic development in Woodstock has slowed in recent years but more recently has been on the upswing.

"Our inquiries took a nosedive in 2008," he said. "They have been slowly coming back over the last couple of years."

Magyar said the city has not seen much in the way of industrial land sales over the past couple of years.

"What's happening is they are looking for existing space ... not looking for greenfield sites," he said.

Magyar noted many established local companies have been expanding on their existing operations.

Last year was the fourth best year in a decade for industrial permits.

"Smaller companies are doing minor expansions," he said. "That's good news."

Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman also applauded the announcement.

"We all know the economy is coming back somewhat. This is the type of car and price of car that the market is increasing on," he said. "We want to commend Toyota for a job well done. They've done a good job not only building a car but also marketing them."

Forest City Castings Announces Major Expansion to St. Thomas

The St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation (EDC) today announced that Forest City Castings of London, Ontario has entered into an Agreement to purchase the Lear Seating property at 10 Highbury Avenue in St. Thomas, Ontario. Over 70 skilled employees currently make up the Forest City Castings team and that number is expected to grow as they relocate and expand from a 25,000 square foot location in London to a 100,000 square foot building with room to grow in St. Thomas.

Established in 2004 in London, Forest City Castings is a privately-owned company that specializes in quality zinc and aluminum castings for manufacturers in the United States, Mexico, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Singapore and anywhere that their product is required. Recognized around the world for their quality, workmanship and service, the company provides a turnkey service for their customers by offering in-house mould making and custom CNC machining.

Mayor Heather Jackson-Chapman said "We are pleased that Forest City Castings has chosen to move their business to St. Thomas. We welcome them and we look forward to their future growth as an exciting part of our business community."

"The addition of this world class manufacturer to our community helps to further diversify our economic base and places even more emphasis on the fact that St. Thomas is the home of a new Industrial Revolution", commented St. Thomas EDC President Dennis Broome.

Owners Michael Vandenboom and Scott McRae have over 20 years experience with graphite permanent mould technology, sand casting and the manufacturing of zinc and aluminum castings. The company offers a wide range of casting products and supplies to a number of different industry sectors, including electrical, mechanical hardware, medical, high tech, nautical and others.

"The decision to move our business to St. Thomas was not difficult as we knew we would be able to retain our current high-quality employees while growing our business in a community that is very supportive to industry", said Vandenboom.

Forest City Castings is expected to move in during the first quarter of 2012.

 

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Robert Wheeler, General Manager

St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation
Telephone: (519) 631-1680,  Ext. 4132
www.st-thomasedc.on.ca  

 

Scott McRae, Owner

Michael Vandenboom, Owner
Forest City Castings Inc.
Telephone: (519) 668-2999
www.forestcitycastings.com 

August 16, 2011 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HYDRO ONE RELOCATES TO ST. THOMAS

The St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation is pleased to announce both the relocation and expansion of Hydro One Networks Inc. (Hydro One) into two separate buildings in the City of St. Thomas. Hydro One has purchased a 21,300 square foot building at 320 South Edgeware Road and a 20,000 square foot facility at 425 South Edgeware Road.

At the 5-acre 320 South Edgeware Road location, Hydro One will employ approximately 12 mechanics to service some of the over 7,500 vehicles that the company uses in Ontario. Hydro One will be moving into this building in the early fall of 2011. Prior to Hydro One's acquisition of this property, it was used as a pre-delivery inspection facility as part of the former Sterling Truck Assembly operation.

At the 425 South Edgeware Road location, Hydro One will employ 25-30 Transmission Line Maintainers and will service an area that ranges from Niagara Falls in the east to Windsor in the west and mid-way to Owen Sound in the north. The investment in this facility will include an addition of over 4,000 square feet on the 20-acre site. In addition to the employment mentioned above, there will also be a number of administrative and support staff in each of the facilities. This property was previously used by Active Transport and was also part of the former Sterling Truck Assembly operation.

St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation President Dennis Broome was excited by the news and remarked that "These are high-quality jobs in a very solid sector. This announcement should serve as an example that St. Thomas is moving forward and well-positioned to support companies of any size from a variety of sectors".

Hydro One selected the St. Thomas sites based on the central location in Southwestern Ontario, the easy access to Highway 401, the strong employment base, the availability of suitable facilities and the reasonable cost of doing business in the City. Both of these investments are relocations from Hydro One-owned and leased sites in the City of London, Ontario. The proximity to the company's previous sites will allow many of those currently employed in London to continue working for Hydro One in St. Thomas.

St. Thomas Mayor Heather Jackson-Chapman welcomed the announcement and stated "We are proud to be associated with a true leader in its field and a company that is dedicated to making the right environmentally and socially responsible choices in every facet of their business".

Hydro One is the largest electricity transmission and distribution company in Ontario and owns and operates approximately 96% of Ontario's transmission capacity. Including all of their subsidiaries, the company operates with over 5,700 full-time employees and over 2,000 part-time and contract employees.

Although the Hydro One brand is just over a decade old, the company itself dates back over 100 years and continues to grow today as one of Ontario's best corporate citizens and top employers.

- 30 -

Daniele Gauvin
Senior Media Relations Officer
Hydro One Networks Inc.
Telephone: (416) 345-6868

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

 

TORONTO — There is more good news for Ontario's recovering automotive sector.

Toyota has decided to assemble the electric version of its popular RAV4 SUV in Woodstock.

One provincial source says Toyota chose Woodstock because of Ontario's "continued commitment to electric vehicles" and support of the auto industry.

The Canadian and Ontario governments recently gave Toyota $141.6 million in grants and loans to upgrade its southern Ontario plants in Woodstock and nearby Cambridge.

Ontario offers consumers who buy or lease electric vehicles between $5,000 and $8,500 in incentives, with the goal of having one out of 20 vehicles in the province electrically powered by 2020.

Premier Dalton McGuinty will visit Woodstock on Friday for the formal announcement, which the government says will secure 6,500 jobs at the two Toyota plants in Ontario plus thousands of supplier jobs.

The conventional gasoline version of the RAV4 sold in North America is already built in Woodstock. More than 151,000 of the small sport utility vehicles were built at the plant in 2010.

"Every U.S. state and Canadian province would want to be home to electric vehicle manufacturing," said a Liberal source. "Toyota chose Ontario. It confirms we're on the right track."

The Japanese automaker showed off the RAV4 EV during the Los Angeles Auto Show last November, but said at the time it had not decided on a location for final assembly of the small SUVs.

Industry insiders had predicted the electric RAV4 would be assembled at a former Toyota-General Motors auto assembly plant in Fremont, Calif., owned by Toyota's partner in the electric car, Tesla Motors.

Toyota said the electric RAV4 will go about 160 kilometres on a single charge, and will includes batteries and powertrain components made by Tesla Motors of Palo Alto, Calif.

Tesla, the maker of electric Roadster sports cars, signed a three-year agreement with Toyota in July to supply powertrain equipment worth about $100 million. Toyota purchased a 2.9 per cent stake in Tesla last year.

Toyota actually built electric versions of the RAV4 between 1997 and 2003 in limited runs that were leased to utilities, cities and businesses.

The Canadian Press

October 15, 2010, St. Thomas, ON:
Joe Preston, MP for Elgin-Middlesex-London helped break ground and commence the construction of new business incubator facilities known as ICE, the Innovation Centre for Entrepreneurs. After months of researching potential locations, the innovation centre will be colocated at 300 South Edgeware Road in St. Thomas with the Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC) and the St. Thomas/Elgin Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC).

Several local dignitaries were also present to commemorate the festivities, including Bob Wheeler, General Manager, St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation (EDC); Dennis Broome, President, EDC; Susan Gardner, President of ICE and past President of EBRC; Alan Smith, General Manager of Economic Development, County of Elgin; Bonnie Vowel, Warden, County of Elgin; Bill Aarts, St. Thomas Alderman, and John Regan, General Manager, EBRC.

"Community groups working together to create jobs in St Thomas is a great thing. We are stronger when we work together," said Joe Preston.

"Once again, the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation is very pleased to work with the Elgin Business Resource Centre. When ICE is completed, this facility will serve to further encourage the entrepreneurial spirit that is growing in the City and give new ideas a place to prosper," said Dennis Broome, President, EDC.

"The County of Elgin is pleased to participate in this important venture and build on the strong partnership with the City of St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation and the Elgin Business Resource Centre," said Elgin County Warden Bonnie Vowel. "By pooling our considerable expertise, we are able to better help the budding entrepreneurs in our County," the Warden added.

"As a mixed use incubator, ICE will be an important addition to the many business services already provided at the Elgin Business Resource Centre. Onsite counselling and support will help ensure that new businesses at the centre get the hand-up they need to secure their future success. Our organization is proud to have a role in bringing this enhanced level of service to the community," said Susan Gardner.

The ICE project was officially announced on May 7 of this year. The St. Thomas EDC has been the lead on this successful project, which is a partnership between the St. Thomas EDC, the EBRC, and the Government of Canada.

The County of Elgin is also a major supporter of ICE, funding the Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) which will aid in the delivery of some ICE services. The St. Thomas EDC received $800,000 through the Government of Canadaç—´ Community Adjustment Fund for this project. An additional $90,000 will be raised by ICE through a corporate fundraising campaign and local sources. To date, Fanshawe College, St. Thomas Campus, as well as Raven and Shaw, Gunn and Associates, Libro, Dundee Wealth Management, Bowsher and Bowsher, and McBain Signs and Graphic Design have committed to investing in ICE and Elgin and St. Thomas's economic diversification.

The EBRC will coordinate the services of ICE and help deliver a greater number of opportunities to the ever-growing number of area entrepreneurs. ICE will be a mixed-used facility, delivering administrative services and flexible workspace to growing small businesses. ICE will collaborate with Elginç—´ small and growing businesses to increase the likelihood of success with professional business identity, operational efficiency, reduced risk, and accelerated time to market. The facility is scheduled to have its grand opening, April 1, 2011.

About Business Incubators:

In 2009, there were approximately 95 business incubators in Canada, which served over 900 clients and generated revenues over $93 million. These same incubators supported more than 13,000 part-time and full-time jobs.

Business Incubators, like ICE, do not accept all applicants. Entrepreneurs must apply and meet criteria as indicated by the incubatorç—´ policies and procedures. Traditionally, incubator businesses spend about 30 months in the program, developing the business to successfully move on to their own locations.

For more information about business incubators or ICE, contact John Regan at 519-633-7597.

About the Community Adjustment Fund:

The Community Adjustment Fund is a two-year, $1-billion national program aimed at addressing the short-term economic needs of communities hit hardest by the global economic recession. The approved project must meet the terms and conditions set out in the contribution agreement.

FedDev Ontario was created as part of Canadaç—´ Economic Action Plan to support economic and community development, innovation, and economic diversification, with contributions to communities, businesses and non-profit organizations in southern Ontario. To learn more about FedDev Ontario and the Community Adjustment Fund, please visit the web site at www.feddevontario.gc.ca, or call 1-866-593-5505. For additional information on Canadaç—´ Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

October 19, 2010, Woodstock, ON: The up-to-date largest Canadian solar-cooling project is awarded by the dena Solar Roofs Program for Foreign Market Development 2009/10. The innovative project is proposed by a consortium of German and Canadian companies NARVA, s-power and Proterra Solar. Gunter Schaffron, CEO of s-power explains: "The Canadian-German Oxford Gardens project in Woodstock, Canada, is one of the biggest of its kind to be realized in Canada. s-power is very proud to cooperate on this project with NARVA and Proterra Solar. The NARVA vacuum tubes and the s-power collector are 100 % made in Germany, which guarantees a high quality in terms of capacity and durability."

The project is currently being constructed at Oxford Gardens, a retirement village in Woodstock, Ontario, and includes the installation of 162 solar collectors. "Approximately 40% of the building's air conditioning load, during the summer months in addition to an important contribution to the domestic hot water heating, pool heating and space heating will be covered by the solar-cooling system. This represents a significant portion of the energy consumption for the retirement home", states Bill VanHaeren, co-owner of the Oxford Gardens retirement home.

The opening ceremony for North America's largest commercial scale solar-cooling and thermal heating project will take place on November 9, 2010. Major political leaders and industrial stakeholders of the renewable industry are expected to attend.

The pilot project is initiated by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi) and the Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH (dena) - the German Energy Agency - under the dena Solar Roofs Program. The program is carried out in the framework of the Renewable Energies Export Initiative, and offers comprehensive support for German solar energy companies wishing to enter promising export markets. "Participating in the dena Solar Roofs Program gives us the unique opportunity to present our innovative and superior products through a pilot project in Canada - an important prerequisite for successfully entering the North American market. Our commitment to the project would not have been possible without the support of the German Energy Agency", explains Uwe Zimmermann, marketing manager of the German company NARVA.

The use of renewable energies, particularly solar technologies, is gaining importance throughout the world. The German and Canadian solar industry is positioned to play a key role in this promising and dynamic market. The project is intended to encourage the further use of solar cooling and thermal heating systems in Canada with proven German technologies and will demonstrate its practical benefits. "We take our role in the renewable energy industry very seriously because our products will have an impact on protecting the climate for generations to come," states Suni Ball, general manager of the Canadian partner company Proterra Solar.

FURTHER INFORMATION

About the project:

Oxford Gardens is a recently renovated retirement home with 110 residents and 101 individual suites. A 90 ton electric chiller is currently used for the air conditioning of the 9,900 sqm building and over 3,000 L of hot water is used on a daily basis. The forward-looking management of the retirement home, concerned with the fluctuating and rising costs of energy, began researching alternative energy sources. The solar cooling and thermal heating project proposed by the German-Canadian consortium enables the management to achieve savings for heating, cooling and hot water. The project includes the installation of 162 solar collectors onto the roof of the retirement home. These collectors will absorb the light from the sun's radiation which converts to heat and then transfers into solar liquid. This heated solar fluid will then be used to heat the domestic water, pool, space heating and to run the absorption chiller.

About the project initiators:

The German companies NARVA and s-power both have the same founder, thus optimizing the vacuum tube production through NARVA and offering high-quality collectors through s-power. NARVA, producing vacuum tubes since 2007, has over 40-years of experience in the field of glass manufacturing and processing and extensive knowledge on coating and vacuum processes, as well as experience in the field of glass-metal-compounds. The patent-protected glass-metal-compound between sheathing and absorber makes the collector by s-power highly performing and durable.

Proterra Solar, established in 2008, in Woodstock, Ontario, is an international supplier of solar thermal technology to the North American renewable energy sector. From its inception, Proterra Solar has been committed to being a leader in the solar thermal industry. Proterra Solar is the exclusive distributor for Canada and the U.S.A. for the German s-power evacuated tube collectors, which feature the award winning NARVA brand evacuated tubes.

Additional Canadian partners in the solar thermal cooling project include Trigon Construction, Oxford Plumbing and Zolaryz. Trigon Construction, with offices in Woodstock and Toronto, offers more than three decades of construction industry experience. Oxford Plumbing Inc. has been active since more than 10 years in the industry and its renewable energy division is an asset to the Oxford Gardens' project. Zolaryz has extensive experience in the installation of large commercial buildings and has been installing solar hot water systems for over 9 years.

About the German Energy Agency (dena)

The Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH (dena) � the German Energy Agency � is the centre of expertise for energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. It focuses on the development of sustainable energy systems. dena's aim is to ensure that energy is used in both a national and international context as efficiently, safely and economically as possible with the least possible impact on climate. dena is working with stakeholders from the worlds of politics and business and from society at large to achieve this aim. Shareholders in dena are the Federal Republic of Germany, KfW Bankengruppe, Allianz SE, Deutsche Bank AG and DZ BANK AG.www.dena.de/en

About the dena Solar Roofs Program

The "dena Solar Roofs Program for Foreign Market Development" was developed by the Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH (dena) � the German Energy Agency. Launched in 2004 this program, co-financed by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, supports German solar energy companies entering new markets. Within the framework of the program reference and demonstration projects are installed on the roofs of designated institutions in the different countries around the world. The installation is accompanied by comprehensive marketing and training programs. These 'beacon projects' impressively present high-quality solar technology made in Germany.

Renewable Energies Export Initiative

The "Renewable Energies Export Initiative" was launched by the German Parliament in 2002 and is run by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology. The main objective is to contribute to climate protection by stimulating the acceptance and use of renewable energy around the world.

By showcasing Germany's technical expertise in the field of renewable energy and by organising business trips to and from Germany, the export initiative facilitates business contacts between companies in Germany and abroad. The platform www.renewables-made-in-germany.com provides information about German RE technologies and contact data of German suppliers.

About the opening ceremony:

When: Tuesday, November 9, 2010 from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm

Where: The village of Oxford Gardens Retirement Community

423, Devonshire Avenue

Woodstock, ON, N4S 0B2

For further information:

- NARVA Trade Solartechnik GmbH: www.nt-solartechnik.de

- s-power Entwicklungs- und Vertriebs GmbH : www.s-power.de

- Proterra Solar: www.proterrasolar.com

- dena Solar Roofs Program:

http://www.dena.de/en/topics/renewable-energies/projects/projekt/dena-solar-roofs-programme/

Media contact:

Canadian German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Montreal Office

Anna-Lena Gruenagel, Manager Events � This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Stephanie Weckend, Manager Solar Energy & Energy Efficiency � This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel: +1 514 844 3051

Proterra Solar,

Suni Ball,General Manager � This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel: 1 (888) 553-5505

October 18, 2010:
 Formation of Interactive Manufacturing Innovation Networks Move Forward in Four Southern Ontario Regions

Southern Ontario manufacturers will benefit from the rapid deployment of online manufacturing innovation networks, beginning in four regions of Eastern Ontario (Brockville, Greater Napanee, Arnprior, Cornwall, and Ottawa Valley), Chatham-Kent, Oxford Region (Ingersoll, Tillsonburg and Woodstock) and Windsor-Essex.

Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium was recently awarded $597,000 for the project through the Community Adjustment Fund, delivered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). Funding will support the publically accessible Interactive Manufacturing Innovation Networks (iMiN's), as the first phase of a comprehensive Ontario-wide Manufacturing Innovation Network.

"Our government is happy to support the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium as they work to promote innovation, and excellence in manufacturing through this new project," said Dave Mackenzie, MP for Oxford and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety. "Through collaboration and outreach opportunities, the Interactive Manufacturing Innovation Network will allow local manufacturers to benefit from increased access to partners, market growth and new economic opportunities."

Ontario's iMiN (Interactive Manufacturing Innovation Network) is designed to be a fully meshed network of manufacturers, industry sectors, community partners, academic institutions and other stakeholders, which will grow to become a province-wide series of inter-connected manufacturing networks that facilitates and promotes awareness, excellence and innovation.

The iMiN initiative has been spearheaded by Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC) - Canada's largest manufacturing consortium - a unique not-for-profit organization which provides primary expertise and industry resources to over 900 manufacturing companies in 53 regional consortiums, across 200+ communities in Ontario and Atlantic Canada. EMC is managing and facilitating the development of the Ontario iMiN's as locally driven initiatives that will be inclusive of all industry, individuals and public and private sector organizations who positively affect manufacturing.

"As the saying goes, it takes a whole village to raise a child. Similarly, we believe it takes the entire community to help a manufacturer to truly succeed," said Al Diggins, President and General Manager of EMC. "Bringing together the entire spectrum of organizations and subject-matter-experts which enable manufacturers become more competitive and viable here at home, is key achieving long-term retention and expansion. Using leading edge web 2.0 technology, iMiN will provide all manufacturers with the collaborative forum for creating awareness, excellence and innovation in their organizations, developing new market opportunities and enabling rapid access to all the resources that can help the manufacturer become more competitive."

"EMC is a grassroots organization that has proven it is able to deliver great value, which is why we are supporting the development of an Oxford Manufacturing Innovation Network in partnership with them", said Cephas Panschow, Development Commissioner for the Town of Tillsonburg, on behalf of Oxford County colleagues Bill Mates, Director, Economic Development for the Town of Ingersoll and Len Magyar, Development Commissioner for the City of Woodstock. "We believe this initiative will help lead innovation locally thereby strengthening Oxford's position as a manufacturing hub."

With development well underway, EMC plans to launch each local iMiN before the end of the year, with early 2011 activities focused on growing network resources and participation. The deployment phase of this initiative will conclude on or before Thursday, March 31, 2011, culminating in a sustainable series of public networks.

For more information, please contact:

Al Diggins
President & General Manager
Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium
Toll Free: 1-866-323-4362
E-Mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

October 13th, 2010 , St. Thomas, ON
After 3 years of discussions and negotiations with the Canada Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), My Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) has been awarded a broadcasting license to operate a commercial FM radio station serving the City of St. Thomas and the surrounding area.

Joe Preston, MP for Elgin-Middlesex-London stated "St. Thomas is the largest community in Canada without a radio station. This is an idea whose time has come. It has taken a great community effort to make this happen."

Bob Hammersley, President & CEO of the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce, is very enthusiastic about the MyFM investment stating "We will welcome this new communication service in many ways. It will benefit, inform and entertain our area and be actively involved in community service."

The station will operate at 94.1 MHz and will offer a Gold-based Adult Contemporary music format and feature local news, weather, sports and community events.

Media Contact: Karen Vecchio, Executive Assistant, 519-637-2255 / 519-630-8027 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

October 1, 2010, Woodstock, ON.
The up-to-date largest Canadian solar-cooling project is awarded by the dena Solar Roofs Program for Foreign Market Development 2009/10. The innovative project is proposed by a consortium of German and Canadian companies NARVA, s-power and Proterra Solar. Günter Schaffron, CEO of s-power explains: "The Canadian-German Oxford Gardens project in Woodstock, Canada, is one of the biggest of its kind to be realized in Canada. s-power is very proud to cooperate on this project with NARVA and Proterra Solar. The NARVA vacuum tubes and the s-power collector are 100 % made in Germany, which guarantees a high quality in terms of capacity and durability."

The project is currently being constructed at Oxford Gardens, a retirement village in Woodstock, Ontario, and includes the installation of 162 solar collectors. "Approximately 40% of the building's air conditioning load, during the summer months in addition to an important contribution to the domestic hot water heating, pool heating and space heating will be covered by the solar-cooling system. This represents a significant portion of the energy consumption for the retirement home", states Bill VanHaeren, co-owner of the Oxford Gardens retirement home.

The opening ceremony for North America's largest commercial scale solar-cooling and thermal heating project will take place on November 9, 2010. Major political leaders and industrial stakeholders of the renewable industry are expected to attend.

The pilot project is initiated by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi) and the Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH (dena) - the German Energy Agency - under the dena Solar Roofs Program. The program is carried out in the framework of the "Renewable Energies Export Initiative" and offers comprehensive support for German solar energy companies wishing to enter promising export markets. "Participating in the dena Solar Roofs Program gives us the unique opportunity to present our innovative and superior products through a pilot project in Canada - an important prerequisite for successfully entering the North American market. Our commitment to the project would not have been possible without the support of the German Energy Agency", explains Uwe Zimmermann, marketing manager of the German company NARVA.

The use of renewable energies, particularly solar technologies, is gaining importance throughout the world. The German and Canadian solar industry is positioned to play a key role in this promising and dynamic market. The project is intended to encourage the further use of solar cooling and thermal heating systems in Canada with proven German technologies and will demonstrate its practical benefits. "We take our role in the renewable energy industry very seriously because our products will have an impact on protecting the climate for generations to come," states Suni Ball, general manager of the Canadian partner company Proterra Solar.

FURTHER INFORMATION

About the project:
Oxford Gardens is a recently renovated retirement home with 110 residents and 101 individual suites. A 90 ton electric chiller is currently used for the air conditioning of the 9,900 sqm building and over 3,000 L of hot water is used on a daily basis. The forward-looking management of the retirement home, concerned with the fluctuating and rising costs of energy, began researching alternative energy sources. The solar cooling and thermal heating project proposed by the German-Canadian consortium enables the management to achieve savings for heating, cooling and hot water. The project includes the installation of 162 solar collectors onto the roof of the retirement home. These collectors will absorb the light from the sun's radiation which converts to heat and then transfers into solar liquid. This heated solar fluid will then be used to heat the domestic water, pool, space heating and to run the absorption chiller.

About the project initiators:
The German companies NARVA and s-power both have the same founder, thus optimizing the vacuum tube production through NARVA and offering high-quality collectors through s-power. NARVA, producing vacuum tubes since 2007, has over 40-years of experience in the field of glass manufacturing and processing and extensive knowledge on coating and vacuum processes, as well as experience in the field of glass-metal-compounds. The patent-protected glass-metal-compound between sheathing and absorber makes the collector by s-power highly performing and durable.

Proterra Solar, established in 2008, in Woodstock, Ontario, is an international supplier of solar thermal technology to the North American renewable energy sector. From its inception, Proterra Solar has been committed to being a leader in the solar thermal industry. Proterra Solar is the exclusive distributor for Canada and the U.S.A. for the German s-power evacuated tube collectors, which feature the award winning NARVA brand evacuated tubes.

Additional Canadian partners in the solar thermal cooling project include Trigon Construction, Oxford Plumbing and Zolaryz. Trigon Construction, with offices in Woodstock and Toronto, offers more than three decades of construction industry experience. Oxford Plumbing Inc. has been active since more than 10 years in the industry and its renewable energy division is an asset to the Oxford Gardens' project. Zolaryz has extensive experience in the installation of large commercial buildings and has been installing solar hot water systems for over 9 years.

About the German Energy Agency (dena)

The Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH (dena), the German Energy Agency, is the centre of expertise for energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. It focuses on the development of sustainable energy systems. dena's aim is to ensure that energy is used in both a national and international context as efficiently, safely and economically as possible with the least possible impact on climate. dena is working with stakeholders from the worlds of politics and business and from society at large to achieve this aim. Shareholders in dena are the Federal Republic of Germany, KfW Bankengruppe, Allianz SE, Deutsche Bank AG and DZ BANK AG.www.dena.de/en

About the dena Solar Roofs Program

The “dena Solar Roofs Program for Foreign Market Development” was developed by the Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH (dena) – the German Energy Agency. Launched in 2004 this program, co-financed by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, supports German solar energy companies entering new markets. Within the framework of the program reference and demonstration projects are installed on the roofs of designated institutions in the different countries around the world. The installation is accompanied by comprehensive marketing and training programs. These ‘beacon projects’ impressively present high-quality solar technology made in Germany.

Renewable Energies Export Initiative

The "Renewable Energies Export Initiative" was launched by the German Parliament in 2002 and is run by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology. The main objective is to contribute to climate protection by stimulating the acceptance and use of renewable energy around the world.

By showcasing Germany's technical expertise in the field of renewable energy and by organising business trips to and from Germany, the export initiative facilitates business contacts between companies in Germany and abroad. The platform www.renewables-made-in-germany.com provides information about German RE technologies and contact data of German suppliers.

About the opening ceremony:

When: Tuesday, November 9, 2010 from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm
Where: The village of Oxford Gardens Retirement Community
423, Devonshire Avenue
Woodstock, ON, N4S 0B2

For further information:

- NARVA Trade Solartechnik GmbH: www.nt-solartechnik.de
- s-power Entwicklungs- und Vertriebs GmbH : www.s-power.de
- Proterra Solar: www.proterrasolar.com
- dena Solar Roofs Program:

http://www.dena.de/en/topics/renewable-energies/projects/projekt/dena-solar-roofs-programme/

Media contact:

Canadian German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Montreal Office
Anna-Lena Gruenagel, Manager Events � This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Stephanie Weckend, Manager Solar Energy & Energy Efficiency � This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tel: +1 514 844 3051

Proterra Solar,
Suni Ball,General Manager - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tel: 1 (888) 553-5505

July 15, 2010, St. Thomas, ON
TAKUMI STAMPING CANADA INC., a subsidiary of Takagi Manufacturing Company Limited, of Nagoya, Japan, today confirmed that there will be a major expansion to their Canadian Head Office and Manufacturing Facility in St. Thomas, Ontario.

Three years ago, TAKUMI STAMPING CANADA INC. made the decision to make St. Thomas their home and constructed a first class manufacturing plant of nearly 8,500 square meters (89,000 square feet) in the Highbury Industrial Park. Today, the company has announced that the facility will grow by over 50% once its expansion totaling 4,320 square meters (46,500 square feet) is completed.

The company currently employs over 100 team members at their St. Thomas location and they expect to see that number grow by about 1/3 as they continue production of stamped and welded component parts for the Toyota Motor Company and some of its suppliers. Dennis Broome, President of the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation, noted that, "This expansion demonstrates the confidence that the company has in the St. Thomas workforce as it will make them one of the ten largest employers in the City".

St. Thomas Mayor Cliff Barwick has met with company officials on numerous occasions and said that, "I am honoured that this company has chosen to expand their operations in St. Thomas. I have a great deal of respect for Mr. Takagi's leadership and in the local management team. The relationship between TAKUMI STAMPING CANADA INC. and the City of St. Thomas is very strong and I am looking forward to seeing it grow even stronger in the future."

During a recent visit to the St Thomas facility, Mr. Takagi re-affirmed that one of Takagi Manufacturing Company's key goals was to "continue developing the TAKUMI Group of operations in North America by investing in North America and employing more employees in North America", all of which bodes well for the future of the St. Thomas facility.

The Takagi Manufacturing Company was established in 1890 and incorporated in 1948. They currently have manufacturing operations in Ohio and Texas in the United States, Zhongshan, China, Jakarta, Indonesia and in Okazaki, Japan. Ryuichi Takagi is the fourth generation of his family to lead the company.

The majority of new team member hiring associated with the expansion is not expected to take effect until the spring of 2011. All employment enquiries should be directed via e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

July 14, 2010, St. Thomas, ON
The City of St. Thomas, together with the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation (EDC), today welcomed Masco Canada Limited's announcement that they will be further consolidating their operations into the St. Thomas manufacturing facility.

The 120 employees already working in St. Thomas will soon be joined by the previously announced 187 people from the London operation and now by another 102 from the Brantford location. This consolidation will increase Masco's presence in St. Thomas to over 400 employees by 2011.

"The decision of Masco Canada Limited to further consolidate their manufacturing and distribution facilities in St. Thomas is very positive news for the City," said Mayor Cliff Barwick. "This is a prime demonstration of the support that industry has from City Council and of the hard work that the EDC is doing on a daily basis to save and generate employment in this City."

Mr. Dennis Broome, President of the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation, noted that, "Masco's additional growth in St. Thomas will generate numerous opportunities for local businesses and individuals. The EDC is committed to fostering industrial and commercial growth and this announcement will continue the positive momentum that Masco initiated in the City earlier this year."

Masco Canada Limited is a subsidiary of Masco Corporation, one of the world's largest manufacturers of brand-name consumer products for the home and family. For more details on the company and their products, please visit www.masco.com.

For further information, please contact:

Bob Wheeler
General Manager
St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation
519-631-1680 ext. 4132