The future of Dresden’s Conagra tomato processing plant has been put in doubt.
The U.S.-based company has issued an official statement indicating that Conagra has made the decision to close or sell the Dresden facility.
“Conagra is currently in discussions with Highbury Canco about a potential transaction to sell the business,” the company said in the statement. “If an agreement to sell the business is not completed, then Conagra will close the facility in mid- to late 2027.”
Upon learning of the company’s plans, Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Steve Pinsonneault said he contacted the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade to raise concerns and explore what support may be available. However, he added that Conagra is a private-sector business and the decision regarding the facility’s operations rests with the company.
“The potential closure of the Conagra tomato processing facility in Dresden would have a significant impact on the local community and surrounding agricultural sector,” said Pinsonneault in an emailed statement. “I understand the potential consequences extend well beyond the facility itself. Local tomato growers, employees, suppliers, and other businesses all have a stake in its future, and the effects would be felt throughout the community.”
The tomato processing facility was built in Dresden in the 1940s and currently employs nearly 200 workers, along with around 200 seasonal employees. Many of these employees would be out of work if the plant were to close.
The Dresden facility produces some of the top tomato brands in Canada, including Aylmer, Hunt’s, and RO*TEL.