The Îles-de-la-Madeleine community will benefit from an enhanced tourism offering through projects by the À l’abri de la tempête microbrewery, Le Verger Poméloi and Pâtisserie Hélène des Îles. In addition to diversifying and consolidating the regional economy, these projects will help strengthen its position in the agri-tourism sector.
Innovative, booming businesses
The two managers of the À l’abri de la tempête microbrewery—which opened its doors in 2004—are currently proceeding with an expansion and will acquire new equipment. This will enable them to increase production and meet an ever-growing demand, in particular among tourists very fond of local products.
On their end, the two purchasers of Le Verger Poméloi have diversified this family business through new distillation activities launched in 2019. They will be the first on the islands to produce spirits!
Finally, Pâtisserie Hélène des Îles, launched in 2017 to great success, must expand and renovate to increase production. It is the only artisanal pastry shop to offer high-quality products in the region, and the founder wants to meet the growing demand of her clientele, and even diversify her range of products.
On a tour through the archipelago, the Member of Parliament for Gaspésie–Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister of National Revenue, the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, today announced that CED would provide repayable financial contributions totalling over $1 million to these three businesses.
“À l’abri de la tempête, Le Verger Poméloi and Pâtisserie Hélène des Îles are dynamic businesses in our region. They are contributing to a thriving, diversified, inclusive economy in Îles-de-la-Madeleine, as well as showcasing our regional expertise and local products. These innovative projects will have a positive impact on our local tourism and economy,” said The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Member of Parliament for Gaspésie–Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister of National Revenue.
The Minister also took the opportunity to discuss the region’s economic development issues with the entrepreneurs, in addition to visiting the orchard’s and microbrewery’s facilities.
“We are here to help Canadian SMEs. We are helping them to equip themselves for growth. Thanks to the projects by À l’abri de la tempête, Le Verger Poméloi and Pâtisserie Hélène des Îles, it will be possible to provide tourists with a gastronomic experience unique to Canada! And the entire Îles-de-la-Madeleine community will benefit, as many jobs will be strengthened, and ten jobs will be created,” said The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages.
These three projects support the Government of Canada’s priorities in terms of inclusive economic growth, innovation and regional dynamism.
They are also in line with CED’s mission to encourage economic diversification in Îles-de-la-Madeleine. CED’s support for these local businesses will enable the creation of 10 quality jobs and strengthen another 68 quality jobs.
For more information on À l’abri de la tempête microbrewery, visit: https://alabridelatempete.com/
Terry Bunch
