Investment in Chatham-Kent fishing companies

FedDev Ontario announced investment of nearly $1.5 million through Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to support four freshwater commercial fishing companies in the Chatham–Kent region.

With this finding, these four processors will be able to cover fixed operating expenses, including COVID-19 safety measures, utilities, insurance and employee wages.

A&A Marine Foods, a family-owned freshwater fishing and processing business, is receiving $500,000. When the pandemic hit, the company had to temporarily close its operations. It employs over 30 employees in Blenheim.

Great Lakes Food Company, a harvester and processor of freshwater rainbow smelt, is receiving $362,000. As a result of COVID-19, the company is experiencing a decrease in demand from its largest clients. It employs 38 employees in Chatham.

John O’s Foods Inc., a fish processor and wholesaler of fresh and frozen freshwater fish, is receiving $195,000. As the second largest producer of lake fish in Ontario, the company’s revenues have been impacted by the effects of COVID-19 on its primary clients in the food service industry. It employs 70 employees in Wheatley.

Presteve Foods Limited, a harvester, processor and distributor of wholesale freshwater fish and seafood, is receiving $400,000. The company is experiencing a 66 per cent decrease in sales, and was forced to temporarily shut down production for one month at the onset of the pandemic in 2020. It employs 138 employees in Wheatley.

“Canada’s fish and seafood sector employs thousands of hard-working women and men and plays a critical role in our economy and increases our food security,” said Irek Kusmierczyk, Member of Parliament, Windsor–Tecumseh. “With FedDev Ontario’s investment, we are ensuring that four important fish and seafood-processors in the Chatham–Kent area are well equipped to comply with COVID-19 safety measures, retain and attract skilled employees and get through this pandemic, emerging stronger than ever before.”