More than 30 years ago, Don Cayen started making cabinets in his basement as a hobby.
When he started to make money selling the cabinets, his pastime grew into a full-fledged business.
Don's son, Dan Cayen, has taken over the family business, which now counts 15 employees and occupies 10,000 square feet in a commercial part of Val Caron.
The company, Don's Cabinets, recently benefited from a $485,942 investment from the provincial government to expand its output and create more jobs in the region.
The money was used to expand the company workshop and buy new equipment that has increased its cabinet output and created opportunities for four new employees.
The younger Cayen said they are looking to hire at least two more people for the growing business.
“By supporting the expansion of facilities at Don’s Cabinets, we are helping the company further strengthen its position as a leading manufacturer of custom cabinets in Northeastern Ontario,” said Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci, who announced the funding. “I am very pleased that the NOHFC (Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation) could support the growth of this company and the creation of good jobs in our region.”
Don's Cabinets has focused primarily on the building market by providing cabinets for new homes and developments.
Unlike most cabinet makers, though, the company also produces cabinet doors.
New equipment the company purchased with the provincial investment will allow it to significantly increase its cabinet door output, and supply other local cabinet makers with their product.
“They don't have to go down south or to Quebec to buy their product,” said Dan Cayen. “They've got somebody who understands what it's like to try and get something in Northern Ontario.”
Cayen said he hopes the new investment will also allow the company to advertise its services and grow its retail sales, which currently account for about 20 per cent of business.
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