Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec – The province of Québec is investing $120 million in Jefo, a local animal nutrition company, to fuel its expansion with a new manufacturing plant and a dedicated research center. The announcement, made on March 27th by Premier François Legault alongside several cabinet ministers, represents a significant commitment to economic development in the Maskoutain region and underscores the importance of the agricultural technology sector to Québec’s economy.
Jefo, founded in 1982, has grown into a global player in the development and production of nutritional solutions for livestock. The company’s products are sold in over 80 countries, and this investment will allow it to increase its production capacity and accelerate its research and development efforts. The total project is valued at $256 million, with Jefo contributing the remaining $136 million.
Boosting Regional Economic Growth
The $120 million loan from the Québec government is intended to support the construction of Jefo’s third manufacturing facility in Saint-Hyacinthe, as well as a state-of-the-art research and development center. According to a press release from the Premier’s office, the expansion is expected to create approximately 150 new jobs in the region. The investment aligns with Québec’s broader strategy to strengthen its agricultural sector and position itself as a leader in sustainable food production.
“This is a proud day for Saint-Hyacinthe and for Québec,” said Premier Legault during the announcement. “Jefo is a shining example of a Québec company that has achieved success on the world stage. This investment will help them continue to grow and create good-paying jobs for Québecers.”
A Focus on Innovation in Animal Nutrition
The new research and development center will be a key component of Jefo’s expansion. The company plans to focus its research on developing innovative nutritional solutions that improve animal health, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the efficiency of livestock production. This includes exploring the utilize of novel ingredients and technologies to optimize animal diets and minimize waste.
Jean-François Fontaine, Jefo’s Vice-President, emphasized the importance of innovation in the company’s future. “We are committed to investing in research and development to create cutting-edge solutions for our customers,” he said. “This new center will allow us to accelerate our innovation pipeline and bring new products to market faster.”
Stakeholder Reactions and Regional Impact
The announcement was met with positive reactions from local officials and industry stakeholders. André Beauregard, the Mayor of Saint-Hyacinthe, hailed the investment as a “major win” for the city and the surrounding region. Chantal Soucy, the Member of the National Assembly for Saint-Hyacinthe, echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses and creating economic opportunities for residents.
The investment is also expected to have a ripple effect throughout the agricultural supply chain in Québec. By increasing demand for locally sourced ingredients and services, Jefo’s expansion could benefit farmers, processors, and other businesses in the sector. The Québec government has identified the agricultural sector as a key driver of economic growth, and this investment is seen as a step towards achieving that goal.
Looking Ahead: Project Timeline and Next Steps
Construction of the new manufacturing facility and research center is expected to begin in the fall of 2026, with completion anticipated by the end of 2027. Jefo has already begun the planning process and is working with local contractors and suppliers to ensure a smooth and efficient construction process. The company is also actively recruiting new employees to fill the 150 new positions that will be created by the expansion.
The next key milestone will be the official groundbreaking ceremony, scheduled for November 2026. Further updates on the project’s progress will be provided by Jefo and the Québec government in the coming months. Information about job opportunities at Jefo can be found on the company’s website: https://www.jefo.com/
This investment in Jefo represents a strategic move by the Québec government to support a thriving local business and strengthen the province’s position in the global animal nutrition market. As the project progresses, it will be significant to monitor its impact on the regional economy and the broader agricultural sector.
If you are experiencing financial hardship or seeking resources for career development, please visit the Québec government’s website for information on available programs and services: https://www.quebec.ca/en.
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