Source: The Standard
Niagara Economic Development’s continued focus on promoting the area as a prime location for business relocation and investment is paying off.
Katie Desharnais, Niagara Region’s strategic marketing manager, told the municipality’s planning and economic development committee last week that the targeted marketing efforts led directly to the successful relocation of international companies from Finland and China.
“I just wanted to highlight this because we don’t normally see companies come through from our digital marketing efforts,” Desharnais told councillors. “Our team was pretty excited to pick these up.”
CBB International from Finland is a consulting firm specializing in international trade and business expansion and is incorporating in Ontario and setting up its Canadian subsidiary in Niagara, Desharnais said.
Chinese firm Vichnet, a manufacturer of cable trays and machine guards, will initially focus on warehousing before moving into manufacturing, with an estimated $5-million investment and the creation of 10 new jobs on a 1.2-hectare site.
“The level of sophistication and what I think you’ve done with the brand is impressive,” said Pelham Coun. Diana Huson, committee chair.
“I think Niagara is being showcased in a very positive way. That was one of the motivations why I ran the first time. I think we’ve come a long way, and I’m proud of the team’s work.”
Both firms have plans to relocate in 2026.
Desharnais also referenced the international reaction to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement on May 14 of a $1.6-billion investment by Asahi Kasei Corp. Niagara Economic Development hosted the event alongside staff from the City of Port Colborne.
The EV supply chain plant will produce advanced lithium-ion battery separators. Desharnais said it will position Niagara as a key player in Canada’s growing EV supply chain.
“From our team’s perspective, we think it was quite a success,” Desharnais said. “We had the support of Port Colborne staff, and I have to thank them because they did a wonderful job facilitating and providing support at their location.”
Desharnais said the event attracted significant international media attention, with coverage by Canadian outlets and major Japanese news organizations, and the project underscored Canada’s commitment to strengthening its EV infrastructure, something emphasized by the prime minister.
Premier Doug Ford highlighted Ontario’s leadership in the electric vehicle revolution, and local officials noted this investment is the largest industrial project in Port Colborne since 1914.