Groupe AFFI, a social and not-for-profit enterprise specializing in
industrial subcontracting and logistics outsourcing, is pleased to
announce the acquisition of Abeilles Busy Bees, a company based in
Anjou. This acquisition was made possible thanks to a social
mission loan granted by National Bank and Investissement
Québec.
Founded more than 50 years ago, Groupe AFFI employs approximately
700 people, the majority of whom have functional limitations. Groupe
AFFI has locations in the Montreal and Quebec City areas.
This acquisition will expand the scope of Groupe AFFI’s social
mission, which is to offer a stimulating work environment to
individuals with functional limitations. It will also enhance the
enterprise’s assembly, packaging, warehousing and distribution
capacities, while improving the work environment for staff at its
Anjou and Terrebonne locations, who will be reassigned to the premises
of Abeilles Busy Bees.
“The acquisition of Abeilles Busy Bees, whose activities complement
our own, is the next logical step in the rollout of our vision and
strategy,” said Patrick Biron, President and Chief Executive Officer
of Groupe AFFI. “Thanks to this acquisition, which was made possible
with the support of National Bank and Investissement Québec, we will
be able to expand the scope of our activities and access modern
facilities equipped with cutting-edge automated systems. There will be
many benefits for our employees and clients. This is a big step
forward and I’d like to thank our financial partners for their
leadership and social engagement.”
“National Bank is pleased to offer a social mission loan
to support Groupe AFFI in its mission,” said Isabelle Savard,
Vice-President – Business Strategy and Sales Effectiveness, Commercial
Banking, at National Bank. “It is the first loan in this category at
the Bank, and is aligned with our commitment to support organizations
working to achieve ESG objectives. By hiring people with functional
limitations, Groupe AFFI, a key player in social entrepreneurship in
Quebec, generates a host of economic benefits for the communities it
serves.”
“We are proud to support this acquisition and growth project, which will help Groupe AFFI boost its productivity and diversify its client base,” said Guy LeBlanc, President and Chief Executive Officer of Investissement Québec. “Together with its partners in the financial ecosystem, Investissement Québec is pleased to help social enterprises access funding and remain competitive over the long term.”
