Film maker EcoPoly Solutions Inc. will invest more than C$32 million (US$23.6 million) at its facility in Orillia, Ontario, creating 85 new jobs as part of a plan to expand what the company says is the first full-service plastics laboratory and manufacturing facility in the world.
Founded in 2012, EcoPoly is a film and bag manufacturer of biodegradable plastic products, from bread bags to poly tubes, for a range of industries. It produces agricultural film, liners and industrial packaging products.
EcoPoly will bring in new equipment and automation with a goal of increasing production capacity and competitiveness in the North American market, according to a news release from Ontario economic development officials.
"We are proud to be a Canadian company that has been innovating and growing since our founding in 1991," EcoPoly Chief Technology Officer Bryon Wolff said in the release. "Starting from scratch in a small town in Ontario and becoming competitive globally is a truly amazing accomplishment and a testament to our people."
Wolff also said financial support from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund has been instrumental in the implementation of EcoPoly's next phase of our growth. Ontario is providing more than C$3.5 million (US$2.6 million) for regional development.
"This funding will not only fuel the expansion of EcoPoly's operations but will also pave the way for job creation and economic growth, reinforcing Ontario's position as a leader in green technology and industrial innovation," Jill Dunlop , a member of the Provincial Parliament for Simcoe North, said in the release.