Press release

Fonds de solidarité FTQ Invests $4 Million to Support the Growth of Pet Food Manufacturer PLB International

Boucherville, June 20, 2016 – Established in 1969 by Jean-Marie Brasseur, PLB International initially offered food products for farm animals. Starting in 1981, the founder’s children, Jocelyn, Jean and Jacynthe, joined the company. Having become Québec’s leading manufacturer of dog and cat food, the company launched its 1st Choice brand in 1990 and in 1994 secured its first international account following a trade mission to Japan. Today, the third generation of the Brasseur family is part of the 122-member team of the Boucherville-based company.

In order to support PLB’s growth, the Fonds de solidarité FTQ is granting the company an unsecured loan of $4 million.

“PLB has carved itself an excellent reputation with consumers by offering high-quality products and excellent customer service. The company’s recent acquisition of new equipment will help raise productivity and allow it to make further inroads into the international market,” said Janie Béïque, Senior Vice-President of Industries, Entertainment and Consumer Goods at the Fonds de solidarité FTQ.

“Thanks to the Fonds de solidarité FTQ, we now have the financial means to continue our expansion, the ability to access a network of companies in our industry, and a solid partner to back our future projects,” added Jocelyn Brasseur, President of PLB International.

The family business manufactures and distributes pet food under the brand names 1st Choice and Pronature. PLB is present in 30 countries and has strategic partners in Russia, Ukraine, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.


About the Fonds de solidarité FTQ

The Fonds de solidarité FTQ helps drive our economy. With net assets of $11.2 billion as of November 30, 2015, the Fonds is a development capital fund that channels the savings of Quebecers into investments in all sectors of the economy to help create and maintain jobs and further Québec’s development. The Fonds is a partner, either directly or through its network members, in more than 2,550 companies. With over 600,000 shareholder-savers, the Fonds has helped create, maintain and protect more than 176,000 jobs. For more information, visit www.fondsftq.com.

About PLB International
PLB International makes high-end pet food for cats and dogs. As a result of its commitment to offering top quality products, it has made inroads into many countries and cultivated loyalty among millions of consumers. Proud of its family business, values and production process, the company strives to be an innovator in the pet food industry. All the key aspects of PLB International, from its expert team to its three product lines, make the company a smart choice for all. www.plbint.com


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Information:

Press contact

Patrick McQuilken
Fonds de solidarité FTQ
Telephone: 514 850-4835
Mobile: 514 703-5587
Email: pmcquilken@fondsftq.com