18 May 2025 Testimonials

Metal Laroche: Embracing Robotics to Transform Production

Founded in 1986, Metal Laroche has established itself as a trusted name in metal fabrication, welding, and machining. Over the years, the company has built strong relationships with clients across a variety of sectors, including wood, food processing, maritime, wind energy, firefighting, hydroelectric, and healthcare. This continued loyalty reflects Metal Laroche’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Metal Laroche expands its operations

In 1995, to meet the growing demand for high-quality marine infrastructure, Metal Laroche expanded its operations by launching Les Quais du Phare, a division specializing in the production of boat lift docks. This strategic move allowed the company to serve a broader market while maintaining its focus on excellence.

Skilled Labor Shortage And How They Faced It.

In this new facility, owner Alex Poulin faced a common industry challenge: a shortage of skilled welders and growing demand.

“It’s hard to find good welders today, and even harder to keep them,” he explains.

The solution? Automating the production of standard boat lift docks.

The Arrival of Robotics

In early 2024, Metal Laroche reached a major milestone in modernizing its operations by integrating the BLOK 300 robotic welding system from AGT Robotics. This investment in advanced automation aimed to address industry-wide challenges such as the shortage of skilled labor and the need for consistent, high-quality production.

The results speak for themselves:

Lead times reduced from up to a month to under a week
Consistent weld quality with every part
Freed-up capacity to take on higher-value custom contracts

Everybody Wins!

Welder Louis-Charles Lacroix notes that the robot didn’t replace his job—it expanded it.

“Now I get to work on more diverse products. And I get to sleep!”

Watch the Full Testimonial

See how automation has transformed operations at Les Quais du Fort. In this video, Alex Poulin and Louis-Charles Lacroix share their real-world experience with the AGT BLOK 300 and explain how robotic technology is redefining their production process.

Invest in Your Business

This investment in AGT’s autonomous robotic welding technology proves that even regional manufacturers can access cutting-edge solutions — with personalized, human support.

At Metal Laroche, the future is automated… and human-centered.