Heinz expected to make statement today regarding Leamington, Ont., tomato plant

Photo: Facebook Page of Heinz Ketchup

LEAMINGTON, Ont. – A statement is expected today from food giant Heinz on negotiations which could save a southwestern Ontario tomato processing plant from complete closure.

Heinz is a major employer in Leamington, Ont., and announced plans last November to close the facility by late June, putting close to 800 full-time employees out of work.

Leamington Mayor John Paterson says Heinz now plans to shed some light on efforts being made to save the plant, adding that the company has told him “it will be a good day.”

Paterson says a number of serious business proposals regarding the facility emerged after Heinz said it planned to shutter the plant.

He says the municipality isn’t privy to talks between Heinz and the interested parties.

Ontario’s minister of economic development, trade and employment said while he couldn’t comment on negotiations between Heinz and any potential investor or buyer, the province wanted to do all it could to support Leamington.