MacDougall Steel Erectors, a steel fabrication and erection company, is expanding its existing operations in Borden-Carleton, Prince Edward Island (PEI). The plant will expand from 6,500 to 12,900 square feet, allowing the company to increase its year-round fabrication capacity and increase tonnage from 2000 tons per year to 3000-3500 tons per year. The company employs 32 people and with this expansion, employment is expected to increase to 42-47.
“The Government of Canada is pleased with the success MacDougall Steel Erectors has experienced since it established its operations in Borden-Carleton,” said the Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, on behalf of the Honourable Joe McGuire, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). “This latest expansion will bring significant benefits to the local economy by creating jobs for Islanders and allowing the company to explore new trade opportunities.”
“Hard work and vision has led this company down a road of opportunity and I see no sign of it slowing down anytime soon,” said the Honourable Mike Currie, Minister of Development and Technology. “MacDougall Steel Erectors has utilized the work force from Central PEI and have been successful at stimulating the economy of the rural community.”
Proximity to the Confederation Bridge was a key selling point for MacDougall Steel Erectors Inc. when they established in Borden-Carleton in 2001. The company exports many of its products to New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and the Eastern United States. In addition to manufacturing, MacDougall Steel Erectors operates a mobile construction erection department consisting of six trucks and twelve portable welders.
“This expansion will enable us to compete and expand into new lucrative US markets,” said Ron MacDougall, President of MacDougall Steel. “We have exceeded our original expectations by experiencing tremendous growth and success. And thanks to the assistance we have received from government, we will be able to meet and achieve those expectations.”
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) provided a $250,000 repayable loan through its Business Development Program for the expansion and the purchase of additional equipment. The Province of Prince Edward Island provided a $141,000 low interest loan through Island Investment Development Inc. (IIDI), a self sustaining investment fund which is used to promote the growth of Island business and employment opportunities.