Ice cream maker's project to introduce new products
Chapman’s Ice Cream will invest more than $200 million to expand its operations in Markdale, Ont., with the provincial government providing $27 million in support through the Invest Ontario Fund.
The expansion will create 200 new jobs at the family-owned company, which is already the largest employer in the small Grey County community. The project includes construction of a 175,000-square-foot facility featuring three new production lines initially, with three more planned for future development.
Company seeks competitive advantage
“This expansion comes at a critical time for Chapman’s,” said Ashley Chapman, chief operating officer of Chapman’s. “The competition from multinationals has only increased in recent years, and this project will help us to establish a stronger competitive ground. We are grateful to the province and Invest Ontario for the support on this project.”
Chapman noted that additional funding from Invest Ontario allowed the company to build a larger facility and support higher-paying jobs for Canadians.
The investment will enable Chapman’s to introduce products never before sold in Canada while positioning the company to develop its export business to meet growing international demand, a news release noted.
Provincial support for manufacturing
Premier Doug Ford announced the investment during a Friday press conference, calling it “a major vote of confidence” in Ontario’s economy, BNN Bloomberg reported.
“We’re going to continue doing whatever it takes to protect workers by cutting red tape and making Ontario the most competitive place in the G7 to invest and create jobs,” Ford said.
Economic development minister Vic Fedeli emphasized Ontario’s role as a trusted partner for business investment.
“At a time of global uncertainty, Ontario is proud to stand as a trusted partner for companies seeking a competitive business environment, highly skilled workforce and resilient economy in which to invest,” Fedeli said. “We are thrilled to see Chapman’s expand their Canadian roots and deliver innovative, high-quality Ontario-made products to families here and around the world.”
Canadian supply chain focus
All Chapman’s products are manufactured in Markdale using milk and cream exclusively sourced in Canada. The expansion is expected to create new opportunities for Canadian suppliers, contributing to growth in the agri-food economy.
Founded in 1973, Chapman’s remains a family-run business currently employing more than 800 full-time workers in Markdale. The additional 200 jobs will bring total employment to over 1,000.
“Chapman’s is a household name in Canada and an Ontario success story,” said Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario. “Through this expansion, they are reinforcing their roots at home while opening doors to the world market.”
The new facility will feature state-of-the-art equipment and automation technology designed to boost capacity, improve efficiency and support staff upskilling initiatives.
Chapman’s produces more than 200 products in its portfolio, including ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet and novelty treats, all sold exclusively within Canada across every province and territory.
