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Lee Li Holdings has announced plans for a substantial investment of over $533 million. This investment is expected to create 275 new jobs in Mississauga and enhance the province's agri-processing supply chain.

The investment, facilitated through Lee Li's subsidiaries – First Choice Beverage, Global Beverage and Logistics Centre and Imperial Chilled Juice – aims to deliver comprehensive co-manufacturing and warehousing solutions for both multinational brands and local retailers.

This expansion aligns with the rising consumer demand for healthy, non-carbonated beverages, positioning Ontario as a key player in the $200 billion global market for low-sugar drinks, including juices, iced teas and flavoured waters.

As part of the expansion, Lee Li will enhance an existing facility and construct a new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant, totalling over 100,000 square feet. This facility will focus on producing plastic bottles for various beverages, including tea, coffee and sparkling water.

Additionally, it will feature a white-label production line that caters to store-brand customers using locally sourced ingredients, further supporting Ontario's agricultural sector.

John G. Spiteri, executive VP & CAO of First Choice Beverage, said: “Our advanced manufacturing facility will place Ontario at the forefront of the non-carbonated beverage market, ensuring faster delivery of locally produced products to consumers across North America”.

The new facility will integrate cutting-edge technology, including AI-enabled production systems and automated warehousing, aimed at enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

The implementation of environmentally sensitive manufacturing practices is expected to reduce energy consumption, wastewater, and plastic waste by over 30%.

Premier Doug Ford highlighted the significance of this investment for job creation and economic resilience in Ontario. “By fostering a competitive environment with lower taxes and reduced regulatory barriers, we are not only protecting jobs but also enhancing our province's status as a leader in advanced manufacturing,” he remarked.

The project is poised to reinforce domestic supply chains by sourcing raw materials, such as fresh-pressed apple and grape juice, from local farms. This not only supports Ontario's agricultural community but also generates downstream benefits for distributors and logistics providers within the province.

Vic Fedeli, minister of economic development, job creation and trade, noted that this expansion reflects Ontario's commitment to building a self-reliant economy amid global uncertainties. “Lee Li’s investment will ensure that more Ontario-made products are bottled and packed right here at home, creating good-paying jobs for families,” he added.

Lee Li, which began as a premium meat distributor in 1984, has evolved into a diversified enterprise with significant operations in food and beverage manufacturing, logistics and healthcare.

Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario, commented: “This investment marks a pivotal moment for Ontario, as it deepens Lee Li’s commitment to the province and drives manufacturing innovation”.

Featured image: © Invest Ontario