Venmar, a prominent manufacturer of fans and air exchangers, is set to permanently close its Drummondville factory in Quebec. This decision affects approximately 350 employees, many of whom now face job uncertainty. The closure is part of a significant restructuring plan orchestrated by Venmar’s parent company from Wisconsin.
Details of the Closure
The decision to cease operations at the Drummondville facility was confirmed to local media. The company’s management intends to consolidate production activities in the United States and Mexico. This move is part of a broader strategy from Broan-NuTone, which is the parent company of Venmar.
Impact on Employees
Employees expressed their concerns about the closure. One worker highlighted the difficulties faced by households with multiple members employed at Venmar. Mayor Jean-François Houle voiced frustration over the lack of communication from company leaders regarding potential solutions to avoid the shutdown.
Company Background
Founded in 1978, Venmar was sold in 1995 to Nortek International, which is based in Atlanta, Georgia. Subsequently, it became a part of Broan-NuTone. The factory closure is expected to start affecting operations towards the end of 2026, following a transition period in July 2023 to complete existing orders.
Reasons for the Closure
- Economic uncertainty
- Decreased order volumes
- New tariffs and rising transportation costs
These factors have contributed to the decision to close the Drummondville factory. Local economic leaders, including Gerry Gagnon, acknowledged that new tariffs might have influenced this corporate strategy.
Broan-NuTone’s Global Operations
Broan-NuTone currently employs over 2,500 people across seven countries, including Chile, China, and Mexico. The company’s restructuring is symptomatic of a larger trend where various sectors, including automotive, have seen operations move out of Quebec, leading to job losses.
Timeline of Venmar’s History
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1978 | Establishment of Venmar Ventilation in Drummondville |
| 1995 | Acquisition by Nortek International |
| 2016 | Designated as a center of excellence for Broan-NuTone |
| 2023 | Rebranded as Broan-NuTone-Venmar |
| 2024 | Closure of Innergy Tech, impacting 70 jobs |
| 2026 | Announced closure of manufacturing and warehousing activities |
The factory closure at Venmar represents a substantial shift not only for the employees affected but also for the local economy in Drummondville. Moving forward, the company’s focus will likely shift further south, as part of a growing trend in industrial operations.
