Sofina Foods is expanding its turkey processing capacity, with financial assistance from the Provincial Government of Ontario.
The Canadian company is opening a new turkey processing facility in Mitchell, Ontario, according to a press release from the Ontario government. The expenses involved in equipping the plant will be paid for with assistance from Ontario’s Jobs and Prosperity Fund. With that support, the company will be able to purchase leading-edge equipment that will increase productivity, enhance animal welfare, improve product quality and boost local production, helping to keep Ontario’s turkey industry competitive.
The government program will invest up to CA$5.3 million (US$4.3 million) in the expansion project valued at CA$55 million (US$45 million)
“Our government is proud to support the continued growth of Ontario’s food processing sector, an important driver of our economy. This support will help Sofina Foods increase their productivity, enhance their competitiveness and create 100 good jobs in Perth County,” said Jeff Leal, Ontario’s minister of agriculture, food and rural affairs.
The project will enable Sofina Foods to create about 100 new jobs, and retain about 60 employees in Mitchell and nearby Dublin.
“On behalf of Sofina Foods Inc., I want to thank the Ontario Provincial Government for its support in helping us build one of Canada’s most advanced turkey processing facilities,” said Rick Turvey, Sofina Foods executive vice president, operations and supply chain. “Our new plant features state of the art equipment and technology representing the latest advancements in the areas of animal care and meat processing. We have been ramping up operations, and I want to acknowledge all our employees and suppliers who have worked countless hours to take us where we are today.”
Sofina Foods presently employs about 2,400 people at 11 facilities across the province of Ontario.
Sofina Foods sells private label and branded products under labels such as Lilydale, Janes, Dan Daniele and Mastro. The company acquired Lilydale in 2010 in a deal valued at CA$130 million (US$106 million).
