Ontario is partnering with Lakeside Produce Inc. to expand the company's Leamington plant, creating 203 new jobs and retaining 312 positions.
Lakeside Produce grows, ships and markets top quality vegetables including bell peppers, cucumbers, and specialty tomatoes. The company is committed to food safety, sustainable operations and using innovative technology for packaging and distribution.
With more than $1 million from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, Lakeside Produce will expand its facility to meet increased demand from major retail customers. The company will install state-of-the-art equipment in the new processing space to increase efficiency and production capacity. The project has a total value of almost $7 million and is expected to be completed by fall 2019.
The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund is modelled on the proven Eastern Ontario Development Fund. Together these two funds have created and retained more than 38,000 jobs and attracted more than $1.6 billion in investment.
The funds typically cover up to 15 per cent of eligible project costs, with the recipient company funding the remainder from its own resources. This leveraging of private sector investment provides enhanced value for taxpayers.
Attracting new investment to southwestern Ontario is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in the province's history, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives and building a secure retirement savings plan.
Source: Government of Ontario