Food manufacturer Ferrero Group has announced plans to expand its Brantford production facility.

The company says it intends to invest $445 million in the facility to support the production of new products. The project is expected to create 500 jobs.

“I’m thrilled to welcome this historic investment to Ontario, along with hundreds of new, good-paying jobs for Ontario workers,” said Premier Doug Ford. “At a time of global economic uncertainty, our government is going to keep working to make Ontario the most stable and attractive place to invest and do business, so we can continue welcoming new, job-creating investments like this.”

Ferrero is the largest employer in the City of Brantford and employs more than 1,800 people across the province.

The company plans to use advanced robotics to digitize production and improve productivity, allowing for the launch of Ferrero Rocher chocolate squares in Ontario.

The expansion will also support the development of new production lines for products, such as Nutella Biscuits, that had previously never been manufactured beyond its European locations.

In support of this investment, Ontario is providing $36 million in funding through the Invest Ontario Fund.

“We are grateful for the ongoing support of the province and the City of Brantford, who recognize the invaluable contributions of the food industry,” said Eric Houdet, Senior Vice President, Canada Industrial, Brantford Plant, Ferrero Canada. “This investment and hundreds of new employees will bolster the local economy and help us bring amazing treats to more people around the world.”