Canadian ice cream manufacturer Chapman’s is set to invest over C$200m ($144.64m) to expand its operations in Markdale, Ontario.
Established in 1973, Chapman’s announced that initial planning for this expansion began “a couple of years ago.”
The expansion will entail constructing a 175,000-square-foot production facility.
In the initial phase, the new plant will feature three production lines, with operations projected to commence in mid-2026, as indicated in the statement.
Furthermore, an additional three lines are scheduled for installation in 2027.
Currently, Chapman’s employs over 800 full-time staff and anticipates that this project will create 200 new full-time jobs.
“This expansion comes at a critical time for Chapman’s. The competition from multinationals has only increased in recent years, and this project will help us to establish a stronger competitive ground,” stated Ashley Chapman, COO of Chapman’s.
The initiative is supported by a loan of up to C$27m from the Invest Ontario Fund.
Ashley Chapman expressed gratitude, stating: “We are grateful to the province and Invest Ontario for the support on this project. Additional funding from Invest Ontario has allowed us to build a bigger facility and support higher-paying jobs for Canadians.”
As a family-owned business, Chapman’s boasts a diverse range of over 200 products, including ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and an assortment of water ice Lolly treats, alongside numerous single-serve novelties.
Notably, the facility will introduce products “never before sold in Canada,” though specifics remain undisclosed.
Chapman’s expects this investment will bolster its “export business” to fulfill growing international demand.
Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario, remarked: “Chapman’s is a household name in Canada and an Ontario success story. Through this expansion, they are reinforcing their roots at home while opening doors to the world market.”
“We’re proud to support this Ontario business that will create opportunities for Ontarians and strengthen the province’s supply chain resilience.”
