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At the heart of the company - Abitibi & Co

Au coeur de l’entreprise - Abitibi & Co

In a society where everything seems to be going at breakneck speed, sometimes you have to take the time to stop. And nothing better than a one-on-one with Mother Nature to recharge your batteries. However, you don't have to go far to successfully escape! With its high-quality watercraft, Abitibi & Co offers interesting alternatives for enjoying our many Quebec waterways.

Abitibi & co Hooké

The two make a pair
Abitibi & Co was born from the acquisition of the Ontario company Mid-Canada Fiberglass, a manufacturer recognized for its quality boats. After 53 years of existence, it experienced financial difficulties, partly explained by the economic recession, and finally found itself bankrupt. It was at this point that Guillaume Leblanc, a mechanical engineer by profession, decided to throw himself into the void by buying the company's moulds. He who was looking for new challenges, we can say that he got his money's worth! Shortly after, he turned to an old friend, Jean-Daniel Petit, to develop his brand. With an impressive background in advertising and marketing, including stops at the Sid Lee and N/A agencies, he agreed to embark on this new adventure. Being both from Rouyn-Noranda, the young men decided to repatriate the company to their little corner of the country.

While Guillaume focuses more on manufacturing, Jean-Daniel specializes in image. Since the creation of the latter in April 2015, demand has exploded at the same rate as the brand. Surprised by this immediate success, the friends let themselves be carried by the wave and must now hire about twenty employees.

The company offers 3 brands of products, all handmade and made of fiberglass, which gives them an incredible lightness. The "Scott" boats are both robust and affordable canoes, while those of the "Blue Water" brand are more upscale. Impex sea kayaks are also available, which are very fast and efficient. For Abitibi & Co, the choices of materials, suppliers and even retailers are paramount. Their main selection criterion: respect for the environment. Moreover, their suppliers are Canadian, which allows them to reduce the environmental impact. Another great initiative is that they commit to removing one bag of waste per boat sold.

More than boats
But above all, the Abitibi-based company wants to think outside the box. Not only does it want to make its products known, like any company, but it also wants to position itself as an influencer in the field of the outdoors. It intends to serve as a lever for the biggest companies so that they follow in their footsteps. She would like to be able to create a community and encourage people to go play outside, while being aware of their actions.

This is also why the Quebec company will launch an outdoor magazine which will be published twice a year. You guessed it; the environment and sustainable development will be at the heart of the topics covered, but with a completely innovative perspective. The founders wish to bring readers to another level, in particular thanks to a grandiose visual but also, a philosophical approach which will push them to reflect.


Going into business is somewhat of a long journey; we find on his journey moments of wonder, but also a lot of uncertainties. For Guillaume and Jean-Daniel, we can speak of a well-calculated risk. And let's bet we haven't finished hearing about Abitibi & Co!

To find out where to find their art-worthy craft and follow their social media, visit their Signé Local member page.

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