Québec minister of economic development, innovation and export trade, Clément Gignac, has announced that US-based THQ will open a facility in Québec. THQ’s Montréal studio will employ around 60 people in the first year and ramp up to 400 within five years, says the firm.

“THQ chose Québec as the location for this major expansion. By setting up its biggest studio here, THQ is joining and bolstering a booming local multimedia industry that’s ready to take on new challenges. Many multinationals in this industry are electing to open new facilities here because Québec has all the ingredients they need to succeed, including a talented workforce, competitive operating costs and the government’s active support,” stated the Minister.

Steve DaCosta, VP finance and administration at THQ added, “Thanks to its outstanding pool of creative digital media talent and its highly regarded university system, Montréal is the ideal location to support our future product and technology development needs. Moreover, government support in the form of refundable tax credits and other incentives enabled Montréal to stand out as the best combination of creative talent and favourable economics of the cities we evaluated for our new studio.”