Ferrero invests C$445 million to expand Ontario plant

Plans call for Luxembourg-based Ferrero to produce Nutella Biscuits and the new Ferrero Rocher Chocolate Squares at the Brantford plant. That will mark the first time that Nutella Biscuits were made outside of Europe as well as Ferrero’s first new product debut outside the continent, the Ontario provincial government said in announcing the project on April 11.

With the investment, Ferrero will expand the Brantford facility’s manufacturing capabilities and capacity “considerably” by using Internet of Things (IoT) technology and advanced robotics to digitize production and improve productivity, the Ontario government said. The new technology and added capacity will enable the launch of Ferrero Rocher Chocolate Squares in Ontario and support the development of new production lines for items such as Nutella Biscuits, which previously had never been manufactured beyond its European manufacturing sites, the province noted.

“This expansion represents a commitment to Ferrero’s tremendous momentum in the region and will strengthen our manufacturing capabilities and supply chain,” said Omar Zausa, president of Ferrero Canada. “This investment will also accelerate the growth of our Nutella and Ferrero Rocher power brands, further solidifying our presence in stores.”

Ontario is providing C$36 million in funding for the project through the Invest Ontario Fund. The government said Ferrero has given “a firm commitment” to source its key ingredients and packaging materials within Ontario.

“We are grateful for the ongoing support of the province and the city of Brantford, who recognize the invaluable contributions of the food industry,” said Eric Houdet, senior vice president of Canada industrial, Brantford plant, for Ferrero Canada. “As the largest employer in Brantford, this investment and hundreds of new employees will bolster the local economy and help us bring amazing treats to more people around the world.”

Ferrero has operated the Brantford plant for nearly two decades. With the expansion and upgrade, the company is slated to add 500 new jobs at the facility, growing its total provincial workforce to 1,800 people.

“Ferrero Canada’s decision to expand their operations and create new, good-paying jobs in Brantford demonstrates Ontario’s attractiveness as a jurisdiction of choice for global agribusinesses,” said Trevor Jones, minister of agriculture, food and agribusiness for Ontario. “Our government is cultivating the right conditions for the growth and long-term prosperity of our C$51 billion agri-food sector by supporting champions like Ferrero Canada.”