Dessau acquires Progest

GASPÉ, QC, Oct. 1 /CNW Telbec/ - Jean-Pierre Sauriol, President and Chief Executive Officer of Dessau, is proud to announce the acquisition of Progest Experts-Conseils Inc., a Gaspé-based engineering firm specializing in project management and construction management. The acquisition will allow Dessau to draw on the recognized expertise of the Progest team and meet clients' needs even more effectively.

"We are pleased to welcome the Progest team, whose talent and skill are already well known in the region. The transaction we are announcing today is a reflection of our desire to expand our network of offices in the Gaspé/Magdalen Islands region and provide an expanded range of engineering and construction services. Our offices in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, New Richmond and the Magdalen Islands will derive particular benefits from the new synergies created by the addition of Progest," Mr. Sauriol said.

"We are very proud and happy to join one of the top Canadian construction-engineering firms. This transaction opens the way to very interesting developments for the region by significantly expanding the range and quality of services that we can offer to our clients. In addition, our employees will have the opportunity to take on new challenges by working on major projects and even international projects," said Progest Chief Executive Officer, Mr. André Fortin.

About Progest

Founded in 2002, Progest's business is focused on project management, consulting engineering and construction management in the fields of municipal infrastructure, transportation, structural engineering and environmental engineering. It also provides operational and technical support for small and large companies and numerous municipalities.

About Dessau

Founded in 1957, Dessau is the second largest engineering firm in Quebec , the fifth largest in Canada and one of the 100 largest in the world. Dessau has expertise in a large number of areas of activity related to engineering and construction, allowing it to plan, design, build and manage all infrastructure required by its private and public sector clients. The firm employs 4,300 people and has annual sales of $600 million . It is active in more than 45 cities in Canada , North Africa , Central America , South America and the Caribbean. Dessau has been recognized as one of the "50 Best Employers in Canada " and one of "Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies" for 2009.

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For further information: André Fortin, Chief Executive Officer, Progest Experts-Conseils Inc., [phone]; Pierre Lévesque, Senior Advisor, Communications, Dessau Inc., [phone], ext. 2084