Manufacturing shipments totalled $2.2 billion in 2001, on par with 2000. Employment averaged 16,400, up from 16,000 in 2000, led by gains in the fish processing sector. In recent years, the industry has benefitted from capital investment, a focus on the manufacture of specialized goods, and government programs such as Economic Diversification and Growth Enterprises (EDGE). Investment has averaged almost $150 million annually since 1996, up from $68 million in the early 1990s. About 80% of investment is for machinery and equipment purchases which improve capacity and productivity.
The Alliance of Manufacturers and Exporters is working pro-actively with government to address the impact of demographic change. Industry surveys indicate that certain shortages may occur as this industry grows and workers retire. This work, while still preliminary, is expected to focus on increasing the amount of skilled labour for the industry.
Food manufacturing is the largest component of the manufacturing industry, amounting to $800 million in 2001. While seafood constitutes 77% of total food manufacturing, other manufacturers have also experienced success.
Murray’s Meats Limited has expanded rapidly since its founding in 1977. The company employs up to 75 people at peak production, manufacturing processed ham, turkey, sausage, bologna, and bacon products previously available only through importation. The company was granted EDGE status in 2000 and, in 1995, the owners were named Entrepreneurs of the Year by the P.J. Gardiner Institute of Memorial University. |
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Brookfield Dairies Group, in business since 1926, is the largest dairy in the province. Brookfield had a record production year in 2001 and has exclusive national manufacturing arrangements with Yogen Fruz, Cadbury, Dairy Queen, and other major retailers. The company also exports to the U.S., Asia, and the Caribbean. Brookfield employs 250 people, and has won two provincial Export Awards (1991 and 1996).
Country Ribbon Inc. operates a livestock feed mill, chicken farm, and processing plant in the St. John’s area. The company markets its products locally and to other areas of Canada. Over the past two years, Country Ribbon has invested heavily in capital improvements to increase productivity. The company employs about 350 people.
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The value of shipments is expected to grow moderately. |
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Capital investment is expected to exceed $126 million, with almost
all spending intended for machinery and equipment. |
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The EDGE program was broadened in late 2001 and will assist in attracting more investment and creating more jobs. |
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