The Flourishing Hub of Food Processing Innovation in London, Canada

From farm to future, London, Ontario is revolutionizing food processing. Welcome to London, Ontario — a city that has emerged as a tier 1 destination for food processing in Canada! Owing to its focus on combining natural resources, tech, infrastructure, and skillful innovation; London offers an ideal environment for agri-food businesses.  

The Consider Sector Stories, a storytelling initiative of Consider Canada City Alliance, is pleased to shed light on London’s growth in the food processing and agri-food sector. 

How London’s Prime Location Powers Its Thriving Food Processing Industry 

While there are many reasons why London has become the prime spot for the food processing industry (which we will uncover in this blog!), an important factor is where the city is located. London draws freshwater from two Great Lakes, Lake Huron and Lake Erie, thereby ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality water crucial for food production.  

Also, London is a proud landscape of shovel-ready, fully serviced industrial lands, which makes it simple to set up or expand food processing and agriculture businesses. 

Blessed with an abundance of farmlands, London has a wealth of fresh ingredients, which helps in the role of a supportive city in the agri-food sector with an ongoing supply of raw materials. Besides this, London also has the essentials – cold storage, distribution and packaging systems and networks, supply chain infrastructure, and other necessary equipment required for food processing operations. 

London Ontario - Thames River

London: Where Talent knows no bounds!

At the heart of the City’s food processing and agriculture growth is the talent that works towards making the industry stronger. London’s food processing industry is filled with skilled workforce from industries such as food processing, nutrition sciences, food chemistry, and even food technology such as Food product development. The city is home to 25 research and development institutions, fostering innovation and technological advancement in various sectors. The agribusinesses and industries in London play a significant role in employment, with over 7,000 individuals working across 90+ companies. These companies range from large multinational corporations to innovative startups, all contributing to the region's economic vitality. London’s strategic location, combined with its robust infrastructure, makes it an ideal hub for food production and distribution across North America.

All The Right Ingredients for Food Processing! 

With a record for attracting significant investments, London has established itself as a major hub for food production and has been supporting over 90 agri-food companies which employ more than 7,000 people. The city primarily focuses on large-scale meat processing, frozen foods (including pizza and desserts), spices, and alcoholic beverages, and a few emerging areas such as health foods, fermented products, cannabis, and ready-made meals. As a nationally recognized test market city, London has been the proving ground for notable products like Tim Hortons™ dark roast coffee, McDonald's® Chicken McNuggets, and Blackfly Beverages craft coolers. This status allows companies to test and refine products before launching them nationwide. 

The city has seen significant investments aimed at bolstering its food processing capabilities. London and Nestlé have a long-standing relationship, almost a century-old history! Nestlé is committed to growth in London. Their latest $51.1-million investment in the 52-year-old plant created 150 new full-time positions. London's rich agricultural heritage makes it a proud home to a strong farming community, which ensures that the food processing industry remains closely connected to local producers, fostering a robust and reliable supply chain.

"London and the rural communities nearby have long been known for their capacity to produce and process agri-food for broad reach into the marketplace. [We can] build on regional strengths for a stable future, while creating good jobs for Canadians." - Kate Young, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (FedDev Ontario)

Thriving Collaboration with Research and Educational Institutions

London’s food processing sector thrives on strong partnerships with local educational institutions like Western University and Fanshawe College. These institutions offer specialized programs in food science, nutrition, and culinary arts, providing a steady stream of skilled graduates ready to enter the food processing industry. Research initiatives between universities and food processing organizations emphasize developing new tech, improving food safety standards, and enhancing product quality. Besides, the universities further offer scope for opportunities such as internships and co-op programs and integrate students into the industry, fostering innovation and ensuring a well-trained workforce. 

London has impressive hubs such as The Grove, The Grove which is the District’s agri-business hub where participants share resources, space, and connections to create the right conditions for innovation, education, and growth. This hub not only serves as a catalyst for industry growth but also as a center for knowledge exchange, where ideas are transformed into practical solutions, and where research meets commercial success. As a key player in Canada’s food processing industry owing to its abundant natural resources, strategic location, and vibrant innovation ecosystem, London continues to attract investments and foster industry growth. 

Staying Local and Going Green 

London is moving towards sustainable practices within its food processing sector. The city continues to develop innovative ways to meet the demand for more sustainably grown food. For example, local companies are investing in energy-efficient technologies and waste management systems to minimize environmental impact. London supports these initiatives through various programs aimed at reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainable production practices.  

The city also places great emphasis on promoting its local food processing ecosystem! Many food processors in London focus on local sourcing to ensure fresher ingredients and reduce transportation emissions. This not only supports local farmers but also strengthens the farm-to-table movement within the region. The City is a beneficiary of provincial and federal programs that help local food processors access international markets and expand their export opportunities. These efforts collectively reinforce London's reputation as a leader in sustainable and innovative food processing, attracting both investment and talent to the region.

The London Economic Development Corporation  (LEDC)

The London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) is the economic development agency for London, Canada. LEDC is a not-for-profit organization which supports the growth of existing businesses, attracts new businesses to London, and strives to ensure companies have the talent, resources, and business conditions they need to scale. LEDC provides tailored support by providing workforce development leadership by connecting businesses with education providers and employment sector agencies, as well as marketing and promoting London for business opportunities in overseas markets. 

LEDC plays an integral role in promoting the city’s food processing sector. By showcasing London’s strategic advantages and facilitating connections between businesses, investors, and stakeholders, the corporation supports the city’s growth and strengthens its position as a leading agri-food hub on the global stage.

To learn more, visit London EDC now: https://www.ledc.com/  

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