MARKDALE, Ontario – September 19, 2025 – Chapman’s Ice Cream, Canada’s largest independent ice cream manufacturer, is investing over $200 million to expand its operations in Markdale, Ontario. The project will add 200 new jobs and strengthen Ontario’s agri-food and manufacturing industries while expanding Chapman’s international market presence.
Key Highlights
- $200 million investment in Ontario’s food manufacturing sector
- 175,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility with six new production lines
- 200 new jobs created in Markdale, Ontario
- Expansion supports Canadian dairy farmers and suppliers
- Backed by a $27 million loan from the Invest Ontario Fund
- Positions Chapman’s for global export growth while launching new products in Canada
- Strengthening Canada’s Ice Cream Industry
The new facility will allow Chapman’s to introduce innovative products never before sold in Canada and meet rising global demand for Canadian-made food products.
“This expansion comes at a critical time for Chapman’s,” said Ashley Chapman, COO. “Thanks to Invest Ontario’s support, we’re building a bigger, more advanced facility that helps us compete with multinationals while creating high-quality Canadian jobs.”
Government and Industry Support
Ontario Premier Doug Ford praised the investment: “This is a major vote of confidence in Ontario’s economy and workers. We’re making Ontario the most competitive place in the G7 to invest and create jobs.”
Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, added: “Chapman’s is expanding its Canadian roots while delivering innovative, high-quality Ontario-made products to families here and abroad.”
The expansion is supported by a loan of up to $27 million through the Invest Ontario Fund.
Boosting Ontario’s Agri-Food Economy
Chapman’s sources all its milk and cream exclusively from Canadian dairy farmers, ensuring this investment will also benefit Ontario’s broader agricultural supply chain.
“Chapman’s is an Ontario success story,” said Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario. “This expansion strengthens our food manufacturing sector, supports the supply chain, and creates opportunities for Ontarians.”
About Chapman’s Ice Cream
Founded in 1973, Chapman’s is a family-owned Canadian company with more than 200 frozen dessert products, including ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and specialty treats for dietary needs (gluten-free, nut-free, lactose-free, and more). Its products are sold nationwide in every province and territory. Learn more at chapmans.ca.
About Invest Ontario
Invest Ontario is the province’s dedicated investment attraction agency, helping businesses grow in advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and technology. Visit investontario.ca for more information.
