Bonduelle in Tecumseh is getting provincial funding to upgrade its vegetable processing plant and create jobs.
The province is investing up to $8.5-million, which will create a total of 87 jobs and retain more than 700 positions at facilities in Tecumseh, Ingersoll and Strathroy.
“Our government’s investment in Bonduelle Canada Inc. will support major upgrades to the province’s vegetable processing sector. These upgrades will have a very positive impact on the supply chain and future sustainability, with increased purchases from 200 Ontario vegetable growers and a significant increase in exports of Ontario-grown and processed vegetables," says Jeff Leal, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
The money will help Bonduelle to adopt new technology to put new frozen vegetable products and packaging formats on the domestic and export markets, increase productivity, enhance food safety and increase exports.
“Boosting competitiveness and strengthening Ontario’s key industry sectors is exactly why we created the Jobs and Prosperity Fund," says Steven Del Duca, Minister of Economic Development and Growth. "Our government is delighted to partner with Bonduelle Canada Inc. to help the company create new jobs and enhance technology across its Ontario operations.”
The province says it is anticipated that exports to the U.S. will increase by $34-million per year, a 55% increase over current levels.