Daily News for July 17, 2026

Business & Politics

FPInnovations appoints Mathieu Blouin President and CEO

FPInnovations
July 16, 2026
Category: Business & Politics
Region: Canada

Mathieu Blouin

FPInnovations announces the appointment of Mathieu Blouin as President and CEO effective as of July 13, 2026, as part of a planned transition. He brings over 20 years of experience in applied forest research, fostering industry partnerships, and organizational leadership; most recently serving as Vice President. “Industrial research and innovation have never been more important. I am pleased to continue this work with our employees and partners to strengthen our sector competitiveness and support its transformation,” said Mathieu Blouin. FPInnovations’ team extends gratitude to Stephane Renou, who set the organization firmly on a path defined by impact, value, and rigour. Under his leadership, FPInnovations has moved to a more adaptive and agile model built to respond to the evolving needs of the industry, maximize the value of harvested wood, and serve as a trusted, honest broker of science and data for Canada’s forest sector.

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Carrier Forest Products to indefinitely curtail operations at Big River sawmill

Prince Albert NOW
July 16, 2026
Category: Business & Politics
Region: Canada, Canada West

SASKATCHEWAN — Carrier Forest Products has announced it will indefinitely curtail production at its Big River sawmill beginning Oct. 16, 2026, a decision expected to impact approximately 117 employees. The company management said the decision was difficult but necessary given a combination of ongoing challenges facing the forestry sector and the Big River operation specifically. …Despite the indefinite shutdown, the company emphasized it has not determined that the Big River facility will be permanently closed. …Carrier Forest Products cited persistent weak market conditions as a major factor behind the decision. The company also pointed to the recent decline of the Canadian dollar. …In addition, management said the long-term effects of last year’s wildfires have reduced the timber volumes available. …Jeff Bromley, chair of the United Steelworkers Wood Council said that the collective agreement offers the workers some help. “It is certainly devastating, but hopefully it is a temporary curtailment,” Bromley said.

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