Value-added storage

Based in Montérégie since its inception in 2002, Martins Industries Inc. has now set up shop in Farnham.

This dynamic young SME headed by Martin Dépelteau and Jean-Michel Boulais has 40 employees. Its activities revolve around two key areas: 1. the manufacture of tire storage, handling and display systems, and 2. the manufacture of custom industrial storage and handling systems (carts, containers, etc.) on which it holds numerous patents.

The company boasts a wide range of clientele including tire manufacturers, department stores, prime contractors and the corner garage. It also operates distribution centres in Canada, the United States and Australia, drawing 25% of its sales from exports.

As with many manufacturing firms, the hard economic times of late also affected Martins Industries. Rising steel prices caused an increase in production costs, resulting in higher sales prices and putting the firm at a disadvantage vis-à-vis its competitors, which were mostly Chinese.

Undeterred by the situation, childhood friends Martin and Jean-Michel rose to the challenge. In their view, the secret was operations optimization. In order to maintain its place as a leader in its field, Martins Industries had to increase production capacity and consolidate its competitiveness so as to position itself advantageously on global markets. A number of avenues were explored: acquisition of strategic equipment, relocation of facilities, hire of a specialist in lean manufacturing, and business process review.

Management approached Canada Economic Development to help them bring their project to fruition. The Agency awarded the firm financial assistance to acquire various equipment, including finishing and cutting, ventilation, and handling and lifting equipment. Furthermore, in March 2010, Martins Industries moved into a new facility three times the size of their former building.

“These new, more spacious facilities will enable us to double our production capacity, a key element of our strategy. Through this project, we hope to increase our client base and diversify our markets,” explained Mr. Dépelteau.

This project will lead to the creation of 24 jobs over two years and be of substantial benefit to the municipality of Farnham, a community of 7,000 residents.