One of the world’s leading chocolate and cocoa suppliers, Barry Callebaut said the new state-of-the-art factory is planned to have an initial annual production capacity of over 50,000 tonnes.
Total investment volume over a period of 10 years is projected to amount to $104m (CHF 100m).
The new factory in Ontario is expected to be operational by 2024 and will focus on manufacturing sugar-free chocolate, as well as high protein and other specialty products, reflecting the market trends.
Capital investment
It marks the Group’s biggest capital investment in the region to date and will be in addition to the 15 chocolate and cocoa processing factories Barry Callebaut currently has across the Americas Region.
“Consumers are searching for healthier and tasty solutions for the foods they love. ‘Free from’ foods like sugar-free or dairy-free are healthier options that also satisfy the indulgence they are craving. Through the addition of a sugar-free facility, Barry Callebaut is positioning itself to be the leader in ‘Better for You’ offerings for our customers, which include a wide range of low- and sugar-free solutions,” said Steve Woolley, President of the Region Americas of Barry Callebaut.
According to market analysts, IRI, the US market for specialty chocolate grew +5.9% in 2021 to $14.7 billion. Barry Callebaut expects to create over 200 new jobs to staff its new state-of-the-art facility.