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Ontario supporting sawmill in Killaloe

March 29, 2018 - Ontario is supporting Ben Hokum and Son Ltd. to upgrade and modernize its sawmill in Killaloe, helping to create and maintain 106 jobs and boost economic growth.

Ben Hokum and Son Ltd. is one of eastern Ontario's largest lumber producers, and the largest producer of red and white pine in Ontario. Its lumber is used in flooring, framing, paneling, pallets and crafting material. 

“As a fourth-generation mill owner, I realize the importance of providing meaningful employment for our community, and a chance for our employees to improve their skill-set through automation,” said Dean Felhaber, president of Ben Hokum and Son Ltd. “With these value-added processes, we will further our company’s penetration into global lumber markets securing our future, as well as those who depend on us — employees, families, suppliers, community, customers.”

Through the funding, the company will be able to grow its business and increase efficiency by modernizing its infrastructure and purchasing new equipment. This will increase production capacity and increase competitiveness while ensuring resources are managed sustainably.

“Our government understands how important a strong forest products sector is to Ontario’s economy and the key role it plays in many northern and rural communities,” said Nathalie Des Rosiers, minister of Natural Resources and Forestry.

The project will maintain 101 existing jobs and create five new positions at the mill in Killaloe.

“I am happy to see the investment we are making in eastern Ontario, and the support this will provide to families in Ontario,” said Steven Del Duca, minister of Economic Development and Growth.

Ontario is continuing its support for the forestry sector by investing $5.5 million over five years in Ben Hokum and Son Ltd.’s infrastructure project.

By generating over $15.3 billion in revenues and supporting approximately 172,000 direct and indirect jobs, the forestry sector is a significant part of communities across the province.

March 29, 2018  By Canadian Forest Industries Staff