Supporting Ontario's Meat Industry

 
 

October 8, 2010 1:00 PM

McGuinty Government Supports Local Food Processors, Creates Jobs

An Elgin County food processor is improving efficiency and increasing their production of fresh, locally-raised meats to meet growing consumer demands. 

Through support from the Rural Economic Development Program, Farmgate Markets is modernizing their business by renovating the former LCBO building in St. Thomas to expand their retail space and increase production of gluten-free meat products. 

This investment will create up to 10 new jobs. It will also increase the amount of fresh farm products purchased from local farmers. 

A strong agri-food industry is part of the five-year Open Ontario Plan to create jobs and opportunities that will boost the province's economy.

QUICK FACTS

 
  • Ontario is investing $95,000 through the Rural Economic Development Program to renovate and expand the new Farmgate Markets facility.
  • Ontario's food processing industry was the third largest employer of its kind in North America in 2008. The industry generated $32.3 billion in revenue from goods manufactured in Ontario in 2007 and nearly $34 billion in 2008.
  • Since 2003, Ontario has invested nearly $112.9 million in 306 projects through the Rural Economic Development Program and generated more than $940 million in new economic activity.
  • In total, Ontario will provide up to $1.5 million to help small and medium-sized rural abattoirs and meat plants grow their businesses and access new markets.

CONTACTS

  • Sarah Petrevan
    Minister's Office
    416-326-3861
    sarah.petrevan@nullontario.ca
  • Susan Murray
    Communications Branch
    519-826-3145
    susan.murray@nullontario.ca



Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
ontario.ca/agriculture


 

"By helping local meat processors like Farmgate Markets grow and expand their businesses, we're creating jobs, supporting farmers, investing in local foods and helping to build a brighter future for the families of Elgin County."

 – Carol Mitchell
Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

"Having the provincial support to improve our processing and retail capacity has been key in our continued success. With the Province on board, we can increase production and continue to serve our local customers."

 – Sandy Lyle
President, Farmgate Markets Inc.

 
 
 
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