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The first machine produced by Tigercat took the inaugural drive on Iarocci Boulevard in Paris at this week’s official opening of the road.
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The prototype 726 feller buncher was gifted to Tigercat in 2017 by the original owner and refurbished as part of the company’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
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The new road, located between Consolidated Drive and Green Lane, was built on land provided by Tigercat and is named in honour of the company’s former president Tony Iarocci. ‘
Iarocci played a pivotal role in bringing the company to Paris and was its first employee when it started in 1992.
Tigercat specializes in the design and manufacture of forest harvesting systems, specialized off-road industrial machines and material processing equipment. It is building a new facility at 141 Consolidated Dr., which will be about 276,000 square feet and create about 400 new jobs. Manufacturing in the building is expected to begin in the fall of 2025.
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“I thought it was significant to have the prototype 726 here,” said Iarocci. “This machine created a strong foundation for the company and paved the way for many additional models and the associated expansion of the company, including the new facility here in Paris.”
Iarocci, who has been involved in the forest industry for the bulk of his career, led Tigercat from 1992 to 2017, overseeing a period of substantial growth, worldwide market expansion, and a steadily increasing product line,” said a news release issued by the County of Brant.
Iarocci gave credit to company owner Ken MacDonald’s “hard work, impeccable business ethics and utmost care for all members of the Tigercat team, customers, dealers and other business partners.”
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“Iarocci Boulevard represents a significant investment in our community,” said Brant County Mayor David Bailey. “And its opening marks and exciting new chapter of economic growth and development for the area.”
“We are very thankful to have Tigercat in Brant. Apart from the employment opportunities and positive economic impact that a business of this size creates, they are also a wonderful community partner who understand the importance of giving back.”
The new road, which was a recommendation from the County of Brant’s transportation master plan, “will improve transportation in the area and support local industry and the community,” said the release.
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