MARKDALE, ON — Ontario is marking a major boost to its food manufacturing sector as Chapman’s, Canada’s largest independent ice cream producer, announced a more than $200 million expansion project in Markdale. The investment will include the construction of a new state-of-the-art production facility, expanded product lines, and 200 new jobs for the region.
The project, supported by $27 million in provincial funding through the Invest Ontario Fund, is expected to enhance the company’s ability to meet rising consumer demand, diversify its product portfolio, and expand into global markets.
A Strong Vote of Confidence
Premier Doug Ford praised the investment as both a regional milestone and a signal of Ontario’s growing competitiveness.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Chapman’s latest investment in Ontario, which is a major vote of confidence in our province’s economy and workers,” Ford said. “We’re going to continue doing whatever it takes to protect workers by cutting red tape and making Ontario the most competitive place in the G7 to invest and create jobs.”
Chapman’s, a fixture in Markdale and the largest local employer, currently produces more than 200 products exclusively with Canadian milk and cream. The new facility, spanning 175,000 square feet, will allow the company to significantly boost output while introducing additional production lines. Once completed, Chapman’s workforce in Ontario will surpass 1,000 employees.
Government Backing for Food Manufacturing
Ontario officials highlighted the expansion as a win for both the province’s agri-food sector and broader economy. The industry supports one in nine jobs across Ontario and generates over $51 billion in GDP annually.
“At a time of global uncertainty, Ontario is proud to stand as a trusted partner for companies seeking a competitive business environment, highly skilled workforce and resilient economy in which to invest,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “We are thrilled to see Chapman’s expand their Canadian roots and deliver innovative, high-quality Ontario-made products to families here and around the world.”
The funding aligns with the province’s broader strategy to advance manufacturing, boost supply chain resilience, and support trade-impacted sectors. As part of the 2025 budget, Ontario introduced new initiatives such as the Advancing Ontario Made Manufacturing Plan and the Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit to ensure businesses remain globally competitive.
Supporting Local Jobs and Global Reach
Ashley Chapman, Chief Operating Officer of Chapman’s, emphasized the importance of the investment in positioning the company against global competitors.
“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,” Chapman said. “We are grateful for the province’s support, which has allowed us to build a bigger facility and support higher-paying jobs for our community.”
Trevor Jones, Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, echoed the sentiment, pointing to the expansion as a boon for local employment and trade.
“Ontario’s agri-food sector is a true powerhouse, supporting jobs across our province. Chapman’s expansion here in Markdale means more good jobs, a stronger local economy, and even more of Ontario’s high-quality food products reaching families at home and trading partners around the world,” Jones said.
Community Impact
For Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, where Chapman’s has long been an anchor business, the announcement was welcomed as a reflection of the company’s ongoing commitment to the region.
“Canadians love Chapman’s Ice Cream and Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound is proud to produce it!” said Paul Vickers, local MPP. “Time and time again, the Chapman family has stepped up for our region. I am glad that today their province can step up for them. I am pleased to welcome today’s investment, and all it will mean for this great local business, its employees and the community of Markdale.”
Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario, called Chapman’s “a household name in Canada and an Ontario success story.” He added that the expansion reinforces the company’s roots while “opening doors to the world market.”
Looking Ahead
The expansion not only signals Chapman’s continued growth but also positions Ontario’s food manufacturing sector for long-term success. By investing in infrastructure and talent, the province aims to secure its reputation as a global hub for agri-food innovation.
Since its inception, Invest Ontario has announced more than $7.6 billion in new projects across various industries, creating over 9,700 jobs. The Chapman’s investment represents one of the largest commitments in Ontario’s food sector to date.
As international trade pressures, including U.S. tariffs, weigh on Canadian industries, Ontario officials say projects like this demonstrate the province’s ability to adapt and remain resilient.
For Chapman’s, the expansion ensures the company can continue delivering on its promise: producing high-quality, Canadian-made ice cream that resonates with customers at home and abroad.
