Technology firm ABB Ltd. is expanding an injection molding plant in Quebec in a move that will create more than 40 new jobs.
The Swiss company will spend C$16 million (US$11.9 million) to expand production capacity at the Montreal-area plant in Pointe-Claire, which is part of its Installation Products Division.
In a news release, ABB officials said the expansion will double the site's injection molding output. The firm's annual North American injection molding sales were estimated at $160 million in a recent Plastics News industry ranking.
"ABB's investment is part of a five-year strategy to integrate new digital processes and automation across our operations," Matthias Heilmann, division president, said in a news release. He added that the expansion "enables us to further innovate our products and manufacturing capabilities to meet the specific needs of the Canadian market."
The expansion will create more than 40 full-time jobs in the upgraded 65,000-square-foot facility. Products made at the plant include Marrette-brand wire connectors, NuTek-brand thermoplastic boxes, Snap-it-brand plastic fittings and Carlon-brand PVC products.
"The additional team members will enable the site to operate multiple product lines and shifts to meet increasing demand … for electrical solutions across industrial, commercial and residential applications," division vice president and general manager Alain Quintal said.
"Having operated in this community for nearly a century, ABB is committed to continuing its strong heritage," he added. ABB operates a Canadian headquarters in Montreal and employs more than 3,000 across Canada.
ABB's Installation Products Division formerly operated as Thomas & Betts. The unit makes more than 200,000 products under more than 38 brand names. ABB is a technology leader in electrification and automation that employs more than 100,000 worldwide.
Earlier this year, ABB announced a $20 million expansion in Auburn Hills, Mich.