Brampton is gaining recognition as one of Canada\u2019s leading destinations for business investment after being ranked the country\u2019s top food and beverage processing cluster by an international business publication.<\/p>\n
Business Facilities Magazine named Brampton No. 1 in Canada in its 2026 Global Rankings for Food and Beverage Processing Clusters, recognizing the city\u2019s growing role as a centre for one of the country\u2019s largest manufacturing sectors.<\/p>\n
The ranking highlights the strength of Brampton\u2019s food and beverage ecosystem, which includes approximately 300 companies employing about 8,500 people and contributing more than $1.3 billion annually to Canada\u2019s gross domestic product.<\/p>\n
The sector includes major companies such as Maple Lodge Farms, Italpasta, Sofina Foods, Lucid Corp. and Coke Canada Bottling, while recent investments from companies including Niche Bakers, Handi Foods, HelloFresh and Marc Angelo Foods have added to the city\u2019s growing reputation as a food manufacturing destination.<\/p>\n
The recognition is another sign of Brampton\u2019s expanding business profile, according to the city, which points to its location, transportation networks, skilled workforce, and manufacturing infrastructure as key factors that attract companies and investment.<\/p>\n
\u201cBeing recognized as Canada\u2019s top Food and Beverage Cluster is a testament to Brampton\u2019s thriving food and beverage industry and the businesses that continue to invest and grow here,\u201d Mayor Patrick Brown said. \u201cThis recognition reflects the strength of our manufacturing sector, our talented workforce and our commitment to creating the conditions for businesses to succeed.\u201d<\/p>\n
The food and beverage industry has become an important part of Brampton\u2019s economic development strategy. In 2023, the city launched its annual Food and Beverage Processing Summit to bring together industry leaders, businesses and other stakeholders to discuss innovation, investment and ways to strengthen the sector.<\/p>\n
The fourth annual summit is scheduled for September 22.<\/p>\n
Regional Councillor Gurpartap Singh Toor, chair of Brampton\u2019s Economic Development Committee, said the ranking demonstrates the impact of collaboration between businesses, government and economic development officials.<\/p>\n
\u201cBrampton\u2019s food and beverage sector is a cornerstone of our local economy and a key driver of innovation, investment and employment,\u201d Toor said.<\/p>\n
The city says the recognition could help further attract companies looking for a place to expand, while providing existing businesses with new opportunities to connect and grow.<\/p>\n
Business Facilities Magazine\u2019s annual rankings assess locations around the world across more than 60 categories related to economic development, investment attraction and industry growth. Brampton ranked first in Canada in the Food and Beverage Clusters category, which considers factors including the concentration of food processors and employment levels.<\/p>\n
The city is encouraging businesses and investors interested in the sector to explore opportunities in Brampton\u2019s growing food and beverage ecosystem.<\/p>\n