McCain makes substantial investment in Coaldale facility

McCain Foods is set to invest CAD 600 million (approx. $436.73 million) into its Coaldale facility in Alberta, creating 260 new jobs and doubling its output in the region.

Max Koeune, president and CEO, McCain Foods, said the investment “marks our largest global investment in our 65-year history, totalling CAD 600 million while underscoring our commitment to the future of agriculture and innovation in Canada”.

He added: “This will fuel continued growth for the business, allowing us to serve key markets further by bringing customers high-quality potatoes that begin with our dedicated local farming community”. 

McCain says it will continue working towards its goal of halving greenhouse gas emissions across its global operations by 2030. Wind turbines and solar panels will be installed as part of the expansion, providing 100% renewable electricity to the Coaldale site.

Renewable biogas will also be generated at the wastewater treatment facility and will be maximised and transported to steam boilers to offset natural gas demands. Additionally, a water recycling system will be implemented to produce clean potable water which will be used in the manufacturing process.

The expansion in Coaldale will create two new production lines and once it is fully operational, the workforce at Coaldale is expected to more than double to 485. Construction on the expansion is expected to start later this year.