One of Chilliwack's largest private employers is expanding.

Soprema Inc. announced plans to build a second production plant on the same property of its current operation on Yale Road West.

"After a relatively quiet period of more than three years of industrial development, it is hoped that this investment-a vote of confidence in Chilliwack, will echo Soprema's beginnings during the last economic downturn," site director Paul Boileau said in a press release.

Soprema makes commercial waterproof materials-mostly used on roofs-that are used all over the world.

Soprema's products are on the European Parliament, the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas, the Molson Centre in Montreal, housing in the Arctic and the second level of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

The membranes are also used in green roofs including on buildings surrounding Beijing's "Bird's Nest" stadium.

Closer to home, Boileau said that Soprema's waterproof membranes were used in every new construction project for the Vancouver-Whistler 2010 Olympics.

Boileau wouldn't say how many new jobs would be created in Chilliwack, but he said "a small number" of new employees would be needed in about a year when the expansion is complete. The current workforce ranges between 25 and 45.

He said that the expansion was made possible because of support from all three levels of government-a "pro-business" city council, federal government policies, and Chilliwack MLA John Les, "the man with the original vision for Chilliwack's Industrial Park."

Boileau also credited his Chilliwack employees' work ethic, discipline and honesty.

Soprema opened its Chilliwack plant in February 2000, and was the first plant in the Chilliwack Business Estates business park. The German company celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2008.

Boileau is also chair of the British Columbia Division of the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, and works hard to promote the local manufacturing sector.

phenderson@chilliwacktimes.com