
Sept-Îles, May 31, 2012 — Today, in the presence of Mr. André Martel, President and CEO of Aluminerie Alouette, along with employees, retired employees and members of the Sept-Iles and Port-Cartier communities, Aluminerie Alouette marked its 20th year in operation. This day hearkened back to the start-up of the first pot and the first pouring at the smelting plant.
In addition to Mr. Martel, Mr. Louis Riopel, the first Canadian president of Alouette, as well as Mr. Étienne Leblanc, employee representative, both said a few words during the official ceremony, which was followed by a tour of the plant and a dinner with all of the attendees.
During his speech, Mr. Martel paid homage to Aluminerie Alouette's employees, community and various partners. "In 20 years, Alouette has grown, fulfilled its potential and ensured its longevity through constant innovation. This vision based on continuous improvement has allowed us to rise to many challenges, particularly in terms of safety, production, energy efficiency and environmental protection. We would like to thank everyone who has contributed, and continues to contribute, to Alouette's success," stated the company's President and CEO.
Mr. Louis Riopel, a pioneer of Aluminerie Alouette, talked with great pride about the aluminum company's beginnings. "When the Alouette project was announced in 1989, it was a dream made real for an entire region thanks to the vision and support of many people. Today, Aluminerie Alouette has become not only a jewel of Quebec but also a world-renowned company," stated Mr. Riopel.
"Aluminerie Alouette would not be what it is today without the contribution from each one of us. Our corporate culture encourages everyone's dedication. More than 300 members of the Alouette family work for us since the very beginning. We are very proud to see how far we've come and to celebrate this 20th anniversary together," said Mr. Étienne Leblanc.
"These 20th anniversary celebrations close an important chapter in Alouette's history. We must not forget, however, that this history continues. “It is with confidence and enthusiasm that we commit ourselves to the following chapters”, concluded Mr. André Martel.