Ontario is helping Cold Springs Farm in Thamesford upgrade its plant to increase production and support Ontario turkey farmers.

With support from Ontario's Rural Economic Development Program, Cold Springs Farm has added new processing equipment, increased refrigeration capacity and made efficiency improvements throughout their facility. This will allow the company to:

• create 30 new jobs and keep more than 560 positions
• introduce new product innovation to the marketplace
• source more turkey from Ontario turkey farmers

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.

Carol Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, commented: "Investing in Ontario food processors is a key part of the McGuinty government's plan to strengthening our province's agri-food industry. By giving Cold Springs Farms, the tools they need to succeed, we're helping a local business grow, creating jobs, and opening the door for Ontario turkey farmers."

Jeff McDowell, Vice President, Poultry for Maple Leaf Consumer Foods, added: "This investment is a significant opportunity for Cold Springs Farm and the Ontario turkey industry at large. As the largest employer in Thamesford, the RED grant will allow us to source more turkey from Ontario farmers and increase product innovation, benefiting employees, producers, and customers."