Italian confectionery giant Ferrero Group is investing $445 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Brantford, Ont., in a move that is expected to create 500 new jobs and boost Ontario’s position in global food production.
The expansion, announced Friday by the Ontario government, marks Ferrero’s largest manufacturing investment in North America and includes the company’s first-ever launch of a new product outside of Europe.
The Brantford plant will begin producing Nutella Biscuits and new Ferrero Rocher chocolate squares — both previously only made in Europe.
Premier Doug Ford called the investment a “historic” win for the province.
“At a time of global economic uncertainty, our government is going to keep working to make Ontario the most stable and attractive place to invest and do business,” Ford said. “We’ll always have the backs of our world-class workers.”
The facility upgrade will also include advanced manufacturing technologies such as robotics and IoT systems, allowing Ferrero to increase productivity and modernize its production lines.
Ferrero has operated in Brantford for nearly 20 years and is currently the city’s largest private employer. With this expansion, the company’s Ontario workforce will grow to over 1,800 employees.
Officials say the company’s continued commitment to sourcing ingredients and packaging locally is a vote of confidence in Ontario’s agriculture and supply chain sectors.
The provincial government is supporting the project with $36 million through the Invest Ontario Fund. Economic Development Minister Vic Fedeli said the investment underscores Ontario’s global appeal.
“Ontario continues to stand out as a trusted partner for domestic and international businesses,” said Fedeli. “This expansion by Ferrero will catalyze economic growth and innovation in Brantford and beyond.”
Ferrero Canada President Omar Zausa said the expansion reflects the company's growing presence in North America.
“This is another important milestone in Ferrero’s history,” Zausa said. “It will accelerate the growth of our Nutella and Ferrero Rocher brands and strengthen our manufacturing capabilities.”
Local officials also praised the announcement. Brantford MPP Will Bouma said the new jobs will help drive long-term growth in the region.
“The residual economic benefits will continue for the foreseeable future,” he said. “Thank you, Ferrero, for believing in our community.”
Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry is valued at more than $51 billion and remains one of the province’s largest manufacturing sectors. The government’s broader strategy — including initiatives like the Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit and the Advancing Ontario Made Manufacturing Plan — aims to strengthen domestic production and supply chains.
