In a major move for the Canadian food packaging industry, Massilly North America has announced a massive $85 million investment to launch metal can production at its local facility. The expansion is being hailed as a “vote of confidence” for the city of Brantford and a significant step toward domestic self-reliance.

Strengthening the Supply Chain

Announced on Tuesday, the project will transform the Elgin Street plant into a hub for food can manufacturing. Beyond the technological upgrade, the investment is a significant win for the local workforce:

• 50 new positions will be created immediately.
• 228 existing jobs are now secured through this long-term commitment.

Garnet Lasby, President of Massilly North America, noted that while the company is a recognised global leader in metal closures (jar lids), expanding into full-scale can production is a “natural evolution.” He highlighted that the move was spurred by a gap in the Ontario agri-food sector, which currently lacks sufficient domestic can manufacturing capacity.

A “Made in Canada” Strategy

By integrating Canadian steel with the company’s technical expertise, Massilly aims to provide a domestic solution that reduces reliance on imports. This strategy is expected to help local growers and food producers navigate a volatile global market.

The expansion includes:

• Advanced coil-cutting operations.
• New three-piece can production lines.
• The use of high-quality Canadian-sourced steel.

Government Support and Economic Impact

The Provincial Government is backing the project with a $5 million grant from the Ontario Trade Together Fund. Premier Doug Ford, who attended the announcement, described the new facility as a “game changer” for the province’s 830,000 manufacturing workers. He emphasised that reshoring these essential industries is vital to shielding Ontario families and businesses from the rising costs of international tariffs.

Local leaders, including Brantford-Brant MPP Will Bouma and Mayor Kevin Davis, echoed this sentiment. Mayor Davis praised Massilly as a prime example of modern, export-driven manufacturing that remains deeply connected to the local community.

About Massilly North America

Originally arriving in Canada in 1996 and relocating to Brantford in 2012, Massilly North America is a subsidiary of the France-based Massilly Group. This latest expansion marks their largest commitment to date in the North American market, positioning Brantford as a central player in the Southwestern Ontario economic landscape.