#Canada #Kingsey Falls #Cascades Inc #Forestry #Solifor

Cascades and Solifor Join Forces to Enhance Forestry Management

Cascades Inc., a key player in sustainable solutions for packaging and recovery, has announced an innovative partnership with Solifor, envisioned to enhance forest asset management in Quebec’s Bas-Saint-Laurent region. This significant move indicates a commitment to sustainable forestry practices, ensuring responsible resource use while supporting the local economy.

The partnership involves Solifor acquiring 10,500 hectares of private forest land previously managed by Cascades in the regions of Kamouraska and Témiscouata. This parcel of land, which Cascades had been overseeing for over 25 years, will now benefit from Solifor's extensive experience in forest management, focusing on sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The deal, valued at $20 million, was finalized on March 31, 2026, and is touted as a step toward securing long-term supply chains for Cascades' Cabano plant.

Hugues Simon, President and CEO of Cascades, expressed optimism about the partnership, commenting, “This agreement not only continues our commitment to sustainability but ensures that Quebec interests oversee the management of these important resources. By partnering with Solifor, we can access a larger supply of forest materials, directly enhancing the competitiveness of our Cabano operations.”

Similarly, André Gravel, President and CEO of Solifor, acknowledged the solid groundwork laid by Cascades, stating, “Cascades has expertly managed its natural and plantation forests in this region, which has been key to its impressive growth. Integrating these lands into Solifor's portfolio aligns perfectly with our goals of promoting responsible forest management and maximizing asset value.”

The collaboration illustrates the importance of strategic partnerships in creating balanced approaches that foster economic growth while addressing climate change. Both companies have made significant investments in sustainable practices in the region, with Cascades being a prominent presence in Bas-Saint-Laurent for over half a century and Solifor for more than 15 years.

Cascades’ commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its operational strategies. The company employs about 9,000 people across 60 North American production units, focusing on innovative solutions that cater to the needs of communities and promote conservation efforts. The successful partnership with Solifor is expected to further these initiatives, enhancing Cascades' capabilities in the forestry sector.

On the other hand, Solifor boasts a substantial portfolio of over 210,000 hectares of private forest land across several regions in Quebec and parts of Maine. This positioning enables Solifor to play a crucial role in aiding the Fonds de solidarité FTQ’s mission, which focuses on regional vitality and community support. Solifor's involvement ensures a direct contribution to long-term environmental health, thereby battling the pressing issues surrounding climate change and promoting responsible land use.

In conclusion, the strategic alliance between Cascades Inc. and Solifor marks a crucial advancement in sustainable forestry management. By pooling their resources and expertise, these two organizations are not only safeguarding the future of their operations but also significantly contributing to the ecological welfare of their regions. This partnership serves as a promising model for future collaborations aimed at optimizing resources and ensuring environmentally responsible growth across various sectors.

As both companies look towards the future, their advancements will surely set benchmarks in sustainable practices within the forestry industry, proving that ecological responsibility can align with economic success.