For Immediate Release
January 31, 2008

Ontario Food Manufacturers To Get More Competitive

McGuinty Government Helps Increase Sector's Productivity, Energy Savings

TORONTO - Ontario's food and beverage processors can increase their competitiveness and reduce costs with new technical, advisory, training and environmental sustainability programs designed and delivered by industry experts.

The province is providing $3 million as follows:

"We want to ensure that food manufacturers have access to the latest technology and skills," said Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Leona Dombrowsky. "We are working to put the sector on a more stable foundation for the future."

"This funding will kick-start the implementation of our long-term strategy, which is aimed at encouraging greater competitiveness throughout the sector," said Jane Graham, executive director of the Alliance of Ontario Food Processors.

"These days, we all need to do our part to conserve energy and reduce costs," said Gary Fread, president and CEO, Guelph Food Technology Centre. "This funding will help us help food companies do their part."

The funding is part of $150 million in assistance announced in the 2007 Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review to increase food industry competitiveness and help hog, horticultural and cattle farmers.

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Contacts:
Kelly Synnott
Minister's Office
416-326-6439

Brent Ross
Communications Branch
416-326-9342