Work is set to begin at the Blenheim Industrial Park on a first-of-its-kind facility expected to attract $100 million in investments and create up to 500 jobs.
Saskatoon-based Brightenview Development International's Global Development Centre will provide manufacturing space and support services for up to 100 small and mid-size manufacturing companies from Asia and Europe.
In a statement, Chatham-Kent Mayor Randy Hope said, “Brightenview chose Chatham-Kent because we have created a competitive environment to attract new international business investment and jobs as well as position the community for growth."
Brightenview CEO and executive director, Joe Zhou, added "In addition to the welcoming community and pro-business environment, access to the U.S., the readiness of the business park, a highly skilled labor force, and the community’s quality of life have made this location desirable."
The facility is expected to include 400,000 sq. ft. of workshop, 250,000 sq. ft. of warehouse distribution and 30,000 sq. ft. of service office space.
It will cater to international manufacturers, by providing them with support to begin manufacturing in Canada.
The cost to design and build the facility is estimated at $45 million and it is scheduled to open in spring 2016.
