Old Town's parent company had considered moving the operation to the state of Washington, but instead decided to move its Washington operations to Maine.

Old Town Canoe expects to add 48 jobs after consolidating its Washington state-based paddle sport brands to its facility in Old Town. At a ceremony today, Gov. John Baldacci said Old Town's parent company, Johnson Outdoors Inc. decided to expand Old Town in Maine rather than in Washington after working out a package of economic incentives with the city and state.

"Old Town Canoe's craftsmanship, quality and brand are known worldwide," Baldacci said. "Old Town Canoe plays an important role in Maine's boatbuilding history and culture, and the company has earned the reputation for being a valued employer and good corporate citizen."

Baldacci says the company moved its paddle sport brands to the Old Town facility in order to streamline operations and position itself for future growth.