Maple Leaf Foods completes 660,000 square foot plant

“I am incredibly proud of our team for achieving this important milestone ahead of schedule in a very challenging environment,” said Maple Leaf Foods CEO Michael H. McCain in response to the completion of its state-of-the-art production plant in London, Ontario. 

The value-added poultry plant is expected to start production in Q4 2022 with 600 hires by the end of the year and an additional 1,600 after reaching operational capacity. 

“As we get closer to commercial production, we know we are well on our way toward realizing the benefits and returns on this $772 million (US$567 million) strategic investment. We expect the plant to generate approximately $100 (US$73.5 million) million annually of incremental Adjusted EBITDA on a run-rate basis once production is fully ramped up around the end of 2023,” said McCain. “This landmark investment in one of the largest, most technologically advanced poultry processing facilities in the world, is yet another example of how Maple Leaf Foods is strategically positioned to serve growing markets, while remaining true to its sustainability commitments.”  

The new London facility will absorb the operations of Maple Leaf’s Schomberg and Bradford plants – with the Bradford plant pivoting operations and the Schomberg plant shutting down. 

“London Poultry is truly a next generation plant that exemplifies Maple Leaf Foods’ approach to delivering shared value for all stakeholders,” said President and COO Curtis Frank.

More on Maple Leaf Foods

Maple Leaf Foods was the first carbon neutral food company in 2019, according to its website, and plans to reduce its carbon footprint 50% by 2025. 

“Our investment in industry-leading food safety, environmental and animal care technologies will allow us to efficiently deliver a premium mix of value-add poultry products to meet steadily growing consumer demand,” said Frank, “while also strengthening Canada’s food system and advancing our vision to be the most sustainable protein company on earth.”

Maple Leaf Foods is also committed to workplace safety with an occupational health and safety goal of zero occupational injuries.  

According to WATTPoultry.com’s top companies database, Maple Leaf Foods’ product lines include packaged meats, ready-to-cook and ready-to-serve meal products and value-added fresh pork, poultry and turkey.