Ford’s $700 Million Investment at Oakville Solidifies 2,800 Jobs to Meet Global Customer Demand
Ford is investing $700 million at its Oakville plant which means 2800 jobs and a large increase in manufacturing capability.
“This investment is helping us find much needed capacity for global products and securing jobs, and it is positioning Oakville as one of the most competitive and important facilities in the Ford system,” said Joe Hinrichs, president of The Americas, speaking from a ceremony at the plant. “Global fuel-efficient products, built in a state-of-the-art facility, by a great workforce are a win for everyone today.”
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Several new models will be produced at the plant and, as a result, Canadian-made auto parts spending will also increase by around $200 million.
Ford says the move will enable Ford to shift production based on consumer demand more quickly and efficiently.
“If consumers suddenly shift their buying habits, we can seamlessly change our production mix without having to idle a plant,” said Hinrichs. “Flexible manufacturing enables us to get vehicles to consumers faster than ever before. This is a great value proposition for everyone."
“Ford’s investment demonstrates Canada can be competitive in the global market through strategic partnerships,” said Dianne Craig, president and CEO, Ford of Canada. “Working closely with government and labour, we have secured a bright future for our employees at Oakville Assembly.”
With today’s announcement, Ford has now invested more than C$2 billion in Canada in less than a decade. In 2004, Ford announced a C$1 billion investment for Oakville Assembly to introduce flexible manufacturing to the facility. In 2010, the company announced a C$590 million investment for Essex Engine Plant in Windsor.
Oakville Assembly manufactures Ford Edge, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKX and Lincoln MKT.
