Deal Could Save Heinz Plant in Leamington

Feb 28, 2014

There is a sign that good news is to come for the 105-year-old Heinz facility in Leamington, Ontario.

On Thursday, Highbury Canco Corporation provided a letter of intent to buy the Heinz facility, but a signed agreement is still in the works. The deal is subject to certain terms and conditions.

Heinz’s news release did not disclose how much the deal is worth.

Under the proposed terms outlined in the letter of intent, Highbury Canco would continue to manufacture certain Heinz products including tomato juice.

Leamington Mayor John Paterson says he is “cautiously optimistic” that a deal will be reached between the two parties. Paterson also gave high praise to the province, adding that it has been heavily involved in the negotiation process.

The company says it plans to employ about 40 per cent of the plant’s previous workforce, approximately 250 full-time workers, and some seasonal staff.

In November 2013, Heinz announced it would be closing the Leamington plant in June 2014, meaning 800 full time jobs would be lost.

Video: FLEECED! Sheep Shearer Hands Over Clippers!

It's sheep shearing day at Ewetopia Farms! ?? Our Dorset lambs and ewes are getting fleeced — and for the first time, our shearer hands over his clippers to a beginner. We finish shearing the last of our adult ewes and this year’s Dorset ewe lambs.

From moving the sheep between barns, loading them into chutes, and watching the wool come off, this is always one of the most satisfying days on the farm. But this video has a twist — we welcomed a new helper, Gian, who’s not only lending a hand but also learning how to shear! With guidance from our experienced shearer, he got a crash course in sheep shearing and even tried his hand at shearing a couple of lambs himself.

You’ll see firsthand how both teacher and student handled this unique challenge. Shearing is more than just removing wool — it’s about sheep health, comfort, and giving us a closer look at the flock. It’s always amazing to see the transformation from woolly sheep to freshly shorn ewes and lambs.