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Barry Callebaut plans to build a $104 million speciality chocolate factory in Ontario, Canada. The new factory will produce sugar-free and high protein chocolates, as well as other speciality products. The facility is expected to have an initial annual production capacity of more than 50,000 metric tonnes of liquid and moulded chocolate production. The move, which marks Barry Callebaut's most significant investment in the region, will join the company's 15 other chocolate and cocoa processing factories located across the Americas. Steve Woolley, president of the region Americas of Barry Callebaut, said: "Consumers are searching for healthier and tasty solutions for the foods they love. ‘Free from’ foods like sugar-free or dairy-free are healthier options that also satisfy the indulgence they are craving." He continued: "Through the addition of a sugar-free facility, Barry Callebaut is positioning itself to be the leader in 'better-for-you' offerings for our customers, which include a wide range of low- and sugar-free solutions".

The facility is expected to be operational by 2024.