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Ontario Food Cluster Celebrates the Arrival of Ontario Plants in Middlesex County

October 15, 2024

Glencoe, Ontario – October 9, 2024 – The Ontario Food Cluster (OFC) is proud to announce the arrival of Ontario Plants, a transformative investment for the region that emphasizes our commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainability. This new facility is poised to elevate Ontario’s agri-business landscape and create significant economic opportunities.

Ontario Plants will invest an impressive $75 million as it establishes its first cutting-edge 13-acre greenhouse as part of a comprehensive four-phase development plan. Each 12-13 acre phase of this project is expected to generate between 40 and 50 new jobs, enhancing the local workforce and further establishing Ontario as a pivotal player in the agricultural sector.

The investment of Ontario Plants highlights the collaborative spirit of the Ontario Food Cluster, which thrives on strategic alliances among economic development agencies and local governments. This initiative reflects the collective vision of fostering a thriving agricultural ecosystem that supports growth, innovation, and job creation across the province.

Aligned with the principles of sustainability, Ontario Plants is committed to implementing advanced growing practices. The facility will incorporate innovative technologies, including robotic growing systems, enhanced biosecurity protocols, and efficient pest management. A key feature of the greenhouse is a 45 million-litre water retention pond designed to capture, recycle, and reuse over 90% of rainwater, alongside a planned six-acre solar array to power the operations sustainably.

The Ontario Food Cluster is excited about the positive impact of Ontario Plants on the region’s agricultural industry. This investment represents not just growth in infrastructure but also a commitment to the environment and community well-being. We eagerly anticipate the opportunities this partnership will bring as we work together toward a sustainable agricultural future.

About OFC: Ontario Food Cluster is a collaborative membership organization of like-minded economic development agencies and municipalities dedicated to fostering growth and innovation within Ontario’s food and beverage industry. By leveraging strategic partnerships, OFC aims to create a thriving ecosystem that supports businesses and drives economic development.

About Ontario Plants: Ontario Plants is a leading provider of high-quality young plants for greenhouse growers across North America. With two state-of-the-art facilities, the company produces over 60 million plants annually, supporting the production of nutritious and flavorful produce such as tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, strawberries, and raspberries. Ontario Plants prioritizes biosecurity and sustainability, playing a key role in advancing Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). As part of COFRA Holding’s sustainable food group, Ontario Plants is committed to fostering long-term partnerships and contributing to a more resilient and sustainable food system.