Bombardier to spend $15M on new design and innovation centre

Valcourt, QC – Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) says it is investing $15 million to build a state-of-the-art design and innovation centre next to its head office in Valcourt.

In 2006, BRP spent $3.6 million to expand its R&D centre in Valcourt and $15.6 million in a partnership with Universite de Sherbrooke to create an advanced technologies centre. This new project will bring under one roof the Sherbrooke and Valcourt design and advanced concept teams.

“BRP ranks among the leaders in a constantly changing industry where competition is increasing because of globalization,” says Jose Boisjoli, president and chief executive officer, BRP. “In this environment, it is critical to bring our design teams together to increase synergies among the various groups and enhance our ability to create the most innovative and competitive products.”

The first phase of the project will begin this spring with the demolition of buildings located between BRP’s head office and the Manoir Bombardier in Valcourt. With 5,000 sq m of space, the new building will feature several workshops and integrated demonstration rooms. More than 50 employees will move to the new facility in 2008.

“BRP products are recognized the world over thanks in part to the talent of our design and advanced concept teams,” says Denys Lapointe, vice-president, design & innovation, BRP. “A leading-edge design centre will give them the space and tools they need to continue their excellent work and will be an additional asset for attracting designers from around the world.”