NOVA SCOTIA BUSINESS INC.--Copol International Ltd. Sharpens Competitive Edge in Nova Scotia

A North Sydney-based packaging and manufacturing firm is improving productivity, exploring new international markets and maintaining jobs in the province.

The province, through Nova Scotia Business Inc., is partnering with Copol International Ltd., through a payroll rebate of up to $280,000.

The rebate is an incentive-based tool. It will only be earned after the company maintains its current staff of 48 employees and invests a minimum of $600,000 over four years as it works towards continued competitiveness in the marketplace.

"The opportunities available to a niche market provider like Copol can result in lasting economic benefit to the company and our province," said Minister of Economic and Rural Development Percy Paris. "It's vital that we continue to support this kind of growth, which enhances our position as a sustainable and prosperous province."

Copol is the only Canadian manufacturer of cast unoriented polypropylene (CPP) film, which is used in flexible packaging such as clear and printed plastic bags, re-sealable bags, food packaging, candy twist wrap, CD and DVD packaging, and adhesive tapes.

"A lot of our growth to-date is directly linked to our ability to listen and adapt to industry demands," said David Sawler, vice-president, operations, Copol International Ltd. "Right now, we're looking at ways we can incorporate environmentally friendly solutions to our products and processes, which will help us better compete in the long-term."

The company advocates for the responsible use of plastics and implements sustainable practices in the manufacturing process. Copol is exploring new bio-based biodegradables and opportunities for increasing recycled material content.

"Copol knows that you have to take risks and explore new markets in order to take your growth to the next level," said Stephen Lund, president and CEO of Nova Scotia Business Inc. "It's about understanding your competitive edge in the international marketplace, and then getting out there and selling it."

Copol International Ltd. is a privately held manufacturer of cast unoriented polypropylene film, established in 1992. From its 90,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in North Sydney, the company produces, markets and sells CPP film products primarily intended for flexible packaging applications. Markets currently served extend throughout Canada, the United States and South America.

Nova Scotia Business Inc. is Nova Scotia's private-sector-led business development agency. NSBI is the investment attraction arm of the province and helps businesses in Nova Scotia meet growth potential through advisory services, trade development, financing and venture capital.