Louisiana Pacific plans additional hires as demand for building materials increases
AUGUSTA — Louisiana Pacific Corporation is reportedly looking to build on the positive momentum it has gained over the last 12 months by expanding.
The company hired 41 new employees in 2013 and as many as 20 more jobs are expected to be added in the first quarter of 2014.
LP Building Products is a leading manufacturer of high-quality building materials used primarily in new construction, repair and remodeling, and manufactured housing.
The company’s growth is a direct result of a rebounding housing market and a subsequent increase in demand for laminated strand lumber (LSL) and oriented strand board (OSB). Back in 2008 Louisiana Pacific invested more than $140 million to make its New Limerick mill more efficient. That investment is now starting to pay off.
“What we are seeing is a Maine economy that is finally heading in the right direction,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “We have improved Maine’s business climate by cutting taxes and removing unnecessary regulations and red tape. All of this has helped the private sector create 8,000 more jobs in a little more than two years and that growth continues. I believe even greater prosperity is possible if we push the envelope and enact bold policies to enhance our overall competitiveness.”
The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) continues to work closely with Louisiana Pacific. This year the company received a $70,000 Workforce Development Grant providing workplace and orientation training for employees.
Brian Doyle, an account executive for Gov. LePage, is also working directly with the company, helping the business access various resources to further incentivize private investment and job creation.