Ontario protects jobs in furniture manufacturing sector

The”Government of Ontario“is helping the wood furniture manufacturing industry increase its market competitiveness and protect jobs.

As part of the”Rural Economic Development Program, the province is investing $705,500 to help the sector form a strategic alliance that will allow it to incorporate leading edge technology so it can further increase market appeal for Ontario-made, quality wood furniture.

The project will, among many things, develop an information and supply chain management system, including software development, graphics, web portal development; provide training for partners, retailers and sales people; allow partners to connect with each other and with customers to enhance their manufacturing techniques and productivity; and help retain up to 270 rural furniture manufacturing jobs.

Since 2003, the Rural Economic Development Program has invested $74.8 million in 229 community-based projects in three priority areas: improved access to health care services, revitalized communities and downtowns and enhanced skills training.