GASPÉ – The Marinard shrimp processing plant in Rivière-au-Renard is reportedly on the verge of being sold.
The information has been circulating for several weeks now in the industry, with discussions said to be nearing completion between E. Gagnon et Fils of Sainte-Thérèse-de-Gaspé and Daley Seafoods of Newfoundland and Labrador, which had announced the acquisition of the company on December 20, 2021.
For the time being, the Vice President of E. Gagnon et Fils, Bill Sheehan, refuses to comment on the state of negotiations when contacted by The Gaspé Spec, however, it has been learned that it is only a matter of days before everything is finalized.
“In the current context, where there probably wouldn’t be enough shrimp to run three processing plants in Quebec, and with what is currently happening at Rivière-au-Renard, we can’t be against it. E. Gagnon et Fils seems to have a clear idea of what it wants to do with the Marinard plant. E. Gagnon et Fils is probably one of the groups best placed to ensure the continuity of operations,” cautiously comments Patrice Element, the director of the Quebec Shrimp Fishermen’s Office.
The mayor of Gaspé has heard the rumours circulating. “It’s reassuring to see that there could be a change of hands, that regional interests could take control of Marinard. It could be interesting. I’m not in the habit of commenting on rumours but, as this is a huge potential transaction, I’m looking favourably on it,” says Daniel Côté, who has not had contact with potential buyers.
Faced with the current shrimp crisis, the mayor believes that the company could be more sensitive to workers.
“Could it diversify? Could it look elsewhere? This regional sensitivity in terms of shareholding will certainly help us find a solution to get our people working and find a solution to the current crisis,” says Mr. Côté.
Marinard had suspended operations on September 1 due to a shortage of shrimp for processing, leaving about 150 employees without income.