As a result of the municipal reorganization in Quebec which took effect at the beginning of 2002, Grand-Mère now forms part of the City of Shawinigan.

The abundance of relatively inexpensive electricity led to the development of industry, primarily based on the production of paper.

The surrounding area consists of forested hills, lakes, and flat plains and farms, with much glacial activity still evident.

The Mauricie region in which Grand-Mère is located has been struggling economically for decades, and boasts some of the most inexpensive real estate in Canada.

The name of the town comes from a rock formation that resembles an old woman with a hair bun at the base of her head ("grand-mère" is French for grandmother).