London auto parts supplier gets $5M to create 44 jobs, improve safety, fuel efficiency

Thanks to a combined $5 million from the federal and provincial governments, a London auto parts supplier will be able to create 44 new jobs and adopt advanced technologies leading to safer and more fuel-efficient vehicles.

London North Centre MPP Deb Matthews and MP Peter Fragiskatos were on hand for Friday’s announcement at Sodecia London, which specializes in manufacturing vehicle frame parts.

“When consumers can save a bit on gas and when they can be safer in vehicles I think everybody wins,” Fragiskatos told AM980.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "When consumers can save a bit on gas and when they can be safer in vehicles I think everybody wins," Fragiskatos told AM980.

“But also, let’s keep in mind that 44 new jobs are being created specifically because of this. That’s tremendously important. We’re talking about 44 individuals that will prosper but also 44 families that will prosper from important middle-class jobs that pay well.”

The company built a new hot stamping factory in London’s Innovation Park and the cash will help it increase productivity and diversify its products. Hot stamping produces lighter and stronger auto parts, which improves fuel efficiency and occupant safety.

“I’m very pleased our government continues to invest in southwestern Ontario,” said Matthews.

“This investment will not just create new jobs, but it will ensure hundreds of people remain employed in their skilled fields.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "This investment will not just create new jobs, but it will ensure hundreds of people remain employed in their skilled fields."

Sodecia London was established in 2011 and is the Canadian entity of the Portugal-based Sodecia Group. Running the new hot stamping facility is expected to inject an additional $25 million annually into the local supply chain, benefiting other businesses in the region.