Canada’s Olymel announces closure of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Plant, initiates employee relocation plan

CANADA – Olymel LP, a Canadian processor and distributor of poultry and pork, is set to close its Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu plant, primarily focused on poultry production and a few pork products. 

The decision, affecting 135 individuals, including 23 non-regulated employees and 30 temporary foreign workers, is scheduled for July 19.

Operating at only 40% capacity, the plant’s closure comes as part of Olymel’s strategic realignment to optimize production across its operations. 

Yanick Gervais, Olymel’s President and CEO, cited a significant overcapacity at the plant as the main driver behind the decision. 

He emphasized that reallocating production to nearby facilities with available capacity would enhance efficiency and generate cost savings.

Affected employees will have the opportunity to participate in a relocation plan, facilitating transfers to other Olymel operations in locations such as Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Unidindon), Saint-Damase, Ange-Gardien, or the Boucherville distribution center.

Gervais acknowledged the difficulty of the decision and expressed regret over the impact on the affected workforce. However, he affirmed Olymel’s commitment to retaining as many employees as possible within the company’s fold.

To support employees in their relocation, Olymel plans to recognize years of seniority for compensation and benefits, subject to union approval at the receiving plants.

Additionally, the company intends to collaborate with federal and provincial authorities to assist temporary foreign workers in finding employment at other Olymel facilities.

“This decision is undoubtedly challenging for our affected employees, and we recognize their valuable contributions,” stated Gervais. 

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