Conagra is planning to either sell or close its tomato plant in Dresden.
The food manufacturing company confirmed to CK News Today that it plans to cut ties with the location next year.
The plant has been a staple in Dresden for nearly 80 years, first opening in 1947.
Conagra didn't explain why it plans to leave the area, only that its decision was made after a careful review.
The news is something Steve Pinsonneault, the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, is extremely concerned about.
"The potential closure of the Conagra tomato processing facility in Dresden would have a significant impact on the local community and surrounding agricultural sector. I understand the potential consequences extend well beyond the facility itself. Local tomato growers, employees, suppliers, and other businesses all have a stake in its future, and the effects would be felt throughout the community," he said.
Pinsonneault added that he's shared the news with the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade to see if any support can be offered for affected people.
Conagra claims it's currently in discussions to sell the plant to Highbury Canco in Leamington. CK News Today has reached out to Highbury Canco, but has yet to receive a response.
Jim Brackett, the president of the Kent Federation of Agriculture (KFA), doesn't see why Conagra won't sell since it has already admitted that it will outright close the plant if needed.
"Conagra might say, 'No, we won't sell for that,' but other than that, I don't know," he said.
Despite this, Brackett is still worried that the plant could close.
Conagra didn't say how many people work at the plant. In 2022, during the company's 75th anniversary celebration, it mentioned that 175 work at the plant full time and roughly 225 work seasonally.
