Winery Expanding in Niagara-on-the-Lake - McGuinty Government Supports Ontario Wine Industry, Creates Jobs

NEWS

August 16, 2011

Ontario is helping a leading Niagara winery expand production and support local farmers.

With support from Ontario's Rural Economic Development Program, Niagara-on-the Lake's Stonechurch Winery will install new state-of-the-art equipment that will allow the company to:

  • increase its production by 20 per cent
  • source and process an additional 500 tonnes of grapes per year from local growers

A strong agri-food industry is part of the McGuinty government's plan to create jobs and opportunities that will grow the province's economy.

QUOTES

"Our government's investment in this project is growing the market for Ontario's winemakers and grape growers. By giving Stonechurch Winery the tools it needs to bring more high-quality, locally-produced wine to the table, we're strengthening our agri-food sector, supporting local farmers and creating jobs."
- Carol Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

"This investment is great news for the Niagara region because it's helping us expand the market for our local grape growers, create jobs for our families and stimulate economic development and tourism. The Niagara Region has a world-class reputation for innovation and success in winemaking. This project reconfirms that."
- Kim Craitor, MPP for Niagara Falls

"The province's investment will increase Stonechurch's ability to invest in the innovative "lean manufacturing" methods developed in the auto sector. Through the introduction of "lean" in vinification and grape growing methods, we will improve productivity, quality, and product safety. Improvements in the manufacturing process will also enable Stonechurch to comply with future food traceability requirements seamlessly as well as substantially increase line speeds, ultimately contributing to lower production costs."
- Hank Hunse, CEO, Stonechuch Winery

QUICK FACTS

  • Ontario has invested over $167 million in 418 projects through the Rural Economic Development Program and generated more than $1.2 billion in new economic activity.
  • The agri-food industry contributes more than $33 billion to the Ontario economy and employs about 700,000 people.

LEARN MORE

Want to grow your food business? Ontario can help.


For more information:

Melissa Zanette, Minister's Office, 416-326-3071
Susan Murray, Communications Branch, 519-826-3145


Author: OMAFRA Staff
Creation Date: 03 August 2011
Last Reviewed: 16 August 2011