New Woodstock facility expected to create 100 jobs and expand Ontario’s poultry processing capacity
The Ontario government is welcoming a more than $100 million investment by Sunrise Farms to build a new poultry processing facility in Woodstock, a move expected to strengthen the province’s agri-food supply chain and create new employment opportunities in southwestern Ontario.
The expansion, announced Wednesday by the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, will create 100 new jobs in Oxford County while supporting an additional 248 existing positions across the province.
Provincial officials said the investment reflects Ontario’s ongoing efforts to boost domestic food production capacity, support rural economic development and reinforce supply chain resilience amid global economic uncertainty.
State-of-the-Art Facility Planned for Woodstock
Sunrise Farms, a family-owned Canadian poultry business founded in 1983, plans to construct a 155,000-square-foot processing facility in Woodstock that will become one of the most technologically advanced poultry plants in Canada.
The company said the facility will operate with high food-safety and environmental standards while significantly increasing poultry processing capacity and procurement from Ontario farms.
Vic Fedeli said the investment supports Ontario’s strategy to strengthen its domestic food manufacturing sector.
“Ontario’s world-class agri-food sector serves as a cornerstone of our economy, which is why our government is fostering its long-term competitiveness and resilience,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “As demand for Ontario-made products rises, Sunrise Farms’ investment will add critical processing capacity to our domestic supply chain, creating new opportunities for Ontario workers, farmers and suppliers.”
The province is supporting the project with up to $4 million in funding through the Invest Ontario Fund.
Expansion Expected to Boost Ontario Food Production
Ontario officials said the new facility will help improve food security and strengthen the province’s self-reliance in poultry processing and food manufacturing.
Once the plant receives federal licensing approval from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Sunrise Farms will also be able to expand the distribution of its Sargent Farms halal-certified poultry products across provincial and territorial borders.
David Shoore described the development as the largest greenfield investment in the company’s history.
“We are pleased to continue our growth by expanding our operations within Ontario,” said David Shoore, CEO, Sunrise Farms. “This project represents the largest greenfield investment in Sunrise’s history. Upon completion, the new facility will enable Sunrise to respond effectively to increasing demand for Sargent Farms branded halal certified products throughout Ontario and nationwide. This development is expected to deliver substantial economic benefits to the region and reinforce Ontario’s food system.”
Agri-food Sector Remains Key Economic Driver
The province’s agri-food industry continues to play a major role in Ontario’s economy, generating approximately $52 billion in GDP and employing one in nine workers across the province.
Trevor Jones said investments in processing capacity are essential to maintaining Ontario’s position as a leading North American food producer.
“Ontario’s agri-food sector is an economic powerhouse, generating $52 billion in GDP and employing 1 in 9 people across the province,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “This significant investment by Sunrise Farms to expand their processing capacity will help ensure our province remains a global leader in food production while creating jobs and strengthening Ontario’s food independence.”
According to provincial figures, Ontario attracted more than $1.3 billion in agri-food manufacturing investments in 2025 alone, supporting hundreds of jobs and strengthening advanced manufacturing capabilities within the sector.
Ontario is currently the largest food-processing jurisdiction in Canada and ranks among the top four food-processing regions in North America.
Local Leaders Welcome Economic Impact
Regional officials said the Sunrise Farms expansion will provide long-term economic benefits for Oxford County and the City of Woodstock, while supporting local agricultural producers.
Ernie Hardeman said the investment highlights the strength of the local workforce and Ontario’s broader agri-food sector.
“Today’s announcement is a major endorsement of Oxford, our local workforce, and Ontario’s agri-food sector. Sunrise Farms’ investment will help create new jobs, strengthen our local economy, and support long-term growth in food processing and agriculture right here in our community. I want to thank Sunrise Farms for their continued commitment to our community and their confidence in the future of Oxford.”
Meanwhile, Jerry Acchione said the project demonstrates the city’s growing appeal for advanced food manufacturing investments.
“We’re excited to welcome Sunrise Farms to Woodstock. Their significant investment shows the advantages our city offers and will bring new jobs, strengthen our economy, and support the farmers who are the backbone of our region. This project reflects our commitment to diversifying our economy, and we’re grateful to our provincial partners for helping bring this investment to our city. It’s a perfect fit for Woodstock and a powerful example of our rural and urban strengths working together to help feed Canada.”
Invest Ontario Supports Expansion
Invest Ontario said it worked closely with Sunrise Farms to support workforce planning and facilitate access to government resources tied to the expansion project.
Khawar Nasim said the project reflects continued confidence in Ontario’s agri-food manufacturing sector.
“Sunrise Farms’ expansion reflects the strength of Ontario’s agri-food processing sector and the province’s commitment to supporting companies as they grow. By helping Sunrise navigate workforce planning, connect with partners and access government programs, Invest Ontario provided the support needed to move this expansion forward. We are pleased to support Sunrise as it grows its operations and contributes to Ontario’s food security and rural economic growth.”