New chocolate factory opens in Brantford, Ont.

A factory tour was held at Barry Callebaut's new Brantford facility. (Courtesy: Barry Callebaut)

Brantford has attracted another ‘sweet’ employer to the Telephone City.

On Thursday, Barry Callebaut, a Swiss chocolate company known for their Van Houten line, officially opened their third manufacturing facility in Canada.

The new Brantford location has been in the works since 2022, when a ground-breaking ceremony was held in the city’s Northwest Industrial Park.

When the company first announced plans to open the factory, they said it would bring 200 new jobs to the area. They also planned to invest $104 million USD over the course of 10 years.

They said the Brantford factory was designed to produce sugar-free chocolate, high protein offerings and other specialty products. It was originally scheduled to open in 2024.

Barry Callebaut has two other Canadian locations: one in Chatham, Ont. and the other in St. Hyacinthe, Que.

“We’re proud to open our doors here in Brantford and become part of this community,” Zeljko Andrasic, the plant manager for the Brantford location, said. “This facility is more than just a factory; it’s a place where local talent, innovation, and collaboration come together to create the exceptional chocolate our customers love. Beyond building a facility, we’re building a culture, one that values safety, quality, and, above all, the people who make it all possible. We’re excited to grow with Brantford, support local jobs and contribute to the region’s thriving food manufacturing landscape.”

Brantford is also home to a Ferrero Canada factory and a Hershey Canada distribution centre.