Why a Quebec food can maker reshored its supply chain back to Canada from the U.S.

Ideal Can, a Quebec-based food can manufacturer, is making a bold move in response to the ongoing U.S. tariffs on Canada’s steel and aluminum sectors. The company is expanding its operations by opening a new plant in Ontario next year, bringing its production closer to key clients in the food processing industry.

Founded in 2008, Ideal Can initially imported cans from China for the Canadian food industry. However, in recent years, the company has shifted towards domestic manufacturing, starting with cans for maple syrup and expanding into other products. With the trade war between Canada and the U.S. escalating, Ideal Can is one of many companies looking to bring their supply chains back home and capitalize on the Buy Canadian movement.

The decision to expand operations and reshore a segment of its supply chain was driven by the tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on steel and aluminum imports. These tariffs have led to increased production costs for companies like Ideal Can, making it more economical to manufacture domestically.

Ideal Can’s expansion plans include opening a plant in Chatham, Ontario, in the old Crown Metal Processing factory. The new plant will house six production lines and is expected to create 100 new jobs over the next two years. By 2028, the factory aims to produce 1.2 billion cans annually, significantly increasing its current output.

In addition to the Chatham plant, Ideal Can is also opening a facility in Hamilton to cut and varnish steel sheets for its production plants in Chatham and Saint-Apollinaire. By bringing this segment of the supply chain back to Canada, the company is ensuring greater independence and efficiency in its operations.

Ideal Can’s strategic pivot has already paid off, with sales more than doubling since the tariffs were imposed earlier this year. The company’s decision to partner with Canadian food processors like Sprague Foods has also been beneficial, allowing them to source cans locally and avoid the impact of rising prices from U.S. suppliers.

While reshoring production back to Canada may not always be economically feasible for all companies, Ideal Can’s success story serves as a testament to the potential benefits of local manufacturing. As the Canadian dollar continues to fluctuate and the global market landscape shifts, companies like Ideal Can are leading the way in reshaping the country’s supply chain and supporting domestic industries. The pandemic has altered many aspects of our daily lives, from how we work to how we socialize. One area that has seen a significant shift is the way we shop for groceries. With concerns about safety and social distancing, more and more people are turning to online grocery shopping to meet their needs.

Online grocery shopping has been around for years, but the pandemic has accelerated its popularity. Many people are opting to order their groceries online and have them delivered to their doorstep rather than risk going to a crowded grocery store. This not only helps to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus but also saves time and energy.

One of the major benefits of online grocery shopping is the convenience it offers. Instead of spending time navigating crowded aisles and waiting in long lines, customers can simply browse products from the comfort of their own home and have them delivered at a time that is convenient for them. This is especially helpful for those who are busy or have limited mobility.

Additionally, online grocery shopping allows for better meal planning and budgeting. By shopping online, customers can easily compare prices, track their spending, and avoid impulse purchases. This can help them stick to their grocery budget and reduce food waste.

Another advantage of online grocery shopping is the ability to access a wider range of products. Many online grocery stores offer a larger selection of items than traditional brick-and-mortar stores, including specialty and hard-to-find items. This can be especially helpful for those with dietary restrictions or specific preferences.

While online grocery shopping offers many benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider. Some people may prefer to personally select their produce or prefer the immediacy of shopping in-store. Additionally, there may be additional fees for delivery or a minimum purchase requirement.

Overall, online grocery shopping has become a popular and convenient option for many people during the pandemic. As technology continues to advance and more people become comfortable with the concept, it is likely that online grocery shopping will continue to grow in popularity in the future.