Lassonde invests $19 million to revamp Quebec plant

Rougemont, Que. – Lassonde Industries Inc. is investing up to $19 million to revamp its operations in Quebec.

The manufacturer and marketer of fruit and vegetable juices and drinks says it will implement new production lines and upgrade existing facilities.

The investment will create up to 24 new jobs, improve output and help the company compete in what is now a highly competitive market.

The Quebec government is contributing $1.85 million to the project.

The plant in Rougemont was Lassonde’s first facility. The investment, says Jean Gattuso, president and COO of the company (pictured), will help ensure it “remains on the cutting edge and maintains its key operational role.”

Lassonde says it also plans to use the investment to implement new production technologies and increase the size of its storage facilities, which is a growing need in light of its sustained production growth.

“Over the past 10 years, we have more than doubled our production operations and created hundreds of jobs in Rougemont,” says Gattuso. “It is a source of great pride for us to keep growing and creating jobs at home.”

Lassonde achieved sales of more than $1 billion in 2012.

The company recently acquired Clement Pappas and Company Inc. for US$21.2 million. Clement Pappas is a New Jersey-based manufacturer of store brand ready-to-drink fruit juices and drinks.