As mentioned in our previous press release, we have invested over one million dollars over the last six months on the acquisition of a new Simpson sand cooling system (100 tons). The project includes cooling equipment installation and building expansion as well as optimization of the dust recuperation system. All work was completed by end of July and was followed by a successful start-up.

 Laforo now moves on to addition of a SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System) telemetry system. The system will perform data monitoring of the foundry operations. This will allow operations surveillance and control from one single screen either locally or at a remote location. This will also enable automation of various operations activities.

 The real-time data acquisition will generate continuous process management reports which will eventually be integrated with a new compatible ERP system.

 As an integral part of our strategic plan this investment will position Fonderie Laforo at the cutting edge of technology and maintain our long term competitiveness in the global market.

 Yvon Fortier, CEO, has made a statement this Friday March 18^th 2011, in the presence of  Steven Blaney MP For Lévis-Bellechasse, confirming a financial grant of $330,000. This money will be fully reimbursable under the Business Growth Program and Regional Economic Development Canada guidelines.

 These funds will be allocated towards the purchase of a brand new sand cooling system. This investment will greatly improve the quality of Laforo’s products, as well as help increase its productivity.

 In order to accommodate this new apparatus, Laforo will undertake, in the coming weeks, the erection of a new structure, improving its production space and area. This venue will be completed by may 31st 2011.

 Looking ahead to address new potential markets, thus increasing its revenues, this project will consolidate more than 103 jobs and go as far as creating 10 new ones.

 This substantial investment is a part of our strategic plan that will bring Laforo to the cutting edge of its technology, therefore allowing the organization to remain competitive on a long term basis, in a globalized market.

 The new logo, on which a team of young designers worked, presents a younger and more dynamic image of the company, by the vision of the management.

 Both triangles composing the logo will be seen alone or with the characteristic signature of the company, so allowing more dynamism in the brand image of the company as well as the discreet but effective reminders of our logo.

 New investment at Laforo

 Further to the economic recovery and the rise of our order booking, Laforo decided to invest in a new Laempe cores machine.

 The new machine, bought at $275,000, replace one of our equipments, the technology of which was obsolete. It will allow us to produce more quickly, more complex cores and of better quality. In operation since mid-September, the transition took place without major problem and our clients are very satisfied.

 In our development plan, we already have in mind other investments and we will inform you as soon as these improvements are taking place.

Nowadays, professional buyers want to be more efficient and start their supplier research on the web. In order to be found, we have to be on the first page of research engines to be considered as a serious company and to do so, we needed a new tool.

This investment is part of our strategic plan which implies a market diversification, a window on global market and better information for our customers.

• Major upgrade on our dust collection units for a better filtration and collection of iron dust coming from grinding and sand dust (wet and dry);
• Installation of a variable air compressor unit for energy savings;
• Upgrade on our melting furnace for a more stable and efficient process;
• Change for a biodegradable cooling glycol in our furnace.

Its part of our strategic plan to update our equipments and systems in order to remain up to date, environmentally responsible and competitive on a long term basis on the global market.