The sale announced Tuesday of Duchesne et Fils, a major employer in the Mauricie region known for decades for its nails and other building materials, is welcomed by the company’s workers’ union.
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The president of Unifor Local 160-Q, Jocelyn Thiffault, believes that the sale of the company established in Yamachiche since 1927 to the holding company Namakor Holdings will allow it to reach a whole new level.
“We view this transaction with a very positive eye. Last week, the buyers met all the employees, Mr. Thiffault told us on Wednesday. Also, discussions are planned between the union executive and senior management this Friday. We should learn more about their vision at this time.”
Mr. Thiffault does not foresee any layoffs, adding that the workers’ collective agreement is still valid for five years.
“Our industry is growing. I don’t believe there are any layoffs,” he said.
Yvon Milette, an employee with 46 years of service at Duchesne, agrees. According to him, this transaction is very positive for the company, because it will be able to expand.
“It will allow a better breakthrough in the United States. Namakor Holdings provides the necessary funding so that we can add new products and compete with the competition. The competition is very strong in our sector,” he said.
The 65-year-old is not at all worried about losing his job. He added that the company is currently looking for about 20 employees.
Duchesne et Fils has renovation centers, hardware stores, distribution centers and specialized manufacturers in Canada and the United States. The company employs over 200 people.
The acquirer, Namakor Holdings, is a Quebec long-term investment firm. She has made it her specialty to buy SMEs in the North American manufacturing sector, which she then supports in order to bring them to greater operational efficiency and growth in their revenues, particularly through international acquisitions. .