SucroCan Sourcing has announced plans to build Canada’s largest sugar refinery at the Port of Hamilton, on lands owned by HOPA Ports (Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority).

The new refinery will have an expected future annual refining capacity of 1 million metric tonnes. Construction is estimated to cost $135 million.

“The sugar markets in both Canada and the United States are experiencing steady, long term, sustainable growth, and Sucro is investing to supply these growing market demands,” said Jonathan Taylor, Founder and CEO of SucroCan Sourcing. “Despite steady demand from an expanding food processing sector, overall refining capacity in both Canada and the United States has been stagnant for years. Especially in Ontario, where the demand for sugar is growing at one of the fastest rates in North America.”

Ontario’s food and beverage manufacturing sector is the third largest in North America with manufacturing revenues of more than $48 billion. The sector has more than 45,000 establishments in the province, employing over 104,800 people.

SucroCan’s focus on improving its customers’ supply chains is a key reason for choosing the Port of Hamilton as the location for its new refinery.

“HOPA Ports is thrilled to be working with SucroCan to make this historic investment a reality,” said Ian Hamilton, President & CEO of HOPA Ports. “The new refinery has access to marine, rail and highway transportation options. The facility’s new capacity and reliability will give Ontario food processors the confidence to invest in their own operations. For us this is a huge win: driving a resilient and efficient supply chain, growing the economy and creating jobs.”