A Region on the Rise
Southern Ontario is experiencing a manufacturing renaissance. After decades of globalization shifted production overseas, a combination of factors, supply chain disruptions, government investment, technological advancement, and shifting economic dynamics, is driving a resurgence of manufacturing activity in the region.
From the automotive corridor stretching from Windsor to Oshawa, to the technology hub of Kitchener-Waterloo, to the diversified manufacturing base of cities like Woodstock, London, and Hamilton, Southern Ontario is reclaiming its position as a North American manufacturing powerhouse.
The Numbers Tell the Story
The Government of Canada has committed significant investment to Southwestern Ontario's manufacturing sector. Federal programs like FedDev Ontario have supported hundreds of manufacturing projects across the region, creating thousands of jobs and driving billions in economic activity.
Ontario's manufacturing sector employs over 750,000 people and contributes more than $80 billion annually to Canada's GDP. The province accounts for approximately 45% of Canada's total manufacturing output.
Why Southern Ontario?
Strategic Location
Southern Ontario sits at the heart of the Great Lakes manufacturing corridor, providing:
- Access to 60% of the U.S. manufacturing base within a day's drive
- Proximity to 40% of North American consumers
- Multiple border crossings for efficient cross-border trade
- Major highway infrastructure (401, 403, QEW) connecting manufacturing centers
Workforce Excellence
The region benefits from:
- Multiple universities and colleges producing engineering and trades graduates
- A tradition of manufacturing excellence spanning generations
- Immigration policies that attract skilled workers from around the world
- Apprenticeship programs that develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople
Infrastructure
Southern Ontario offers:
- Modern industrial parks with available land and buildings
- Reliable power and utilities infrastructure
- High-speed internet connectivity
- Proximity to major airports (Toronto Pearson, Hamilton, London)
- Rail and port access for domestic and international shipping
Government Support
Federal and provincial programs support manufacturing growth:
- FedDev Ontario provides funding for manufacturing innovation and expansion
- Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit
- Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credits
- Canada Job Grant for workforce training
The Southwestern Ontario Advantage
Within Southern Ontario, the Southwestern region, including cities like Woodstock, Stratford, Tillsonburg, and Ingersoll, offers particular advantages:
Lower Operating Costs: Compared to the Greater Toronto Area, Southwestern Ontario offers significantly lower real estate, labor, and operating costs while maintaining access to the same supply chains and markets.
Manufacturing Heritage: Cities like Woodstock have deep manufacturing roots, with generations of skilled workers and established supplier networks.
Quality of Life: The region offers an excellent quality of life that helps attract and retain talented workers, affordable housing, short commutes, and access to natural amenities.
Growing Diversity: The region's manufacturing base is increasingly diverse, spanning automotive, medical devices, food processing, clean energy, and industrial automation.
Woodstock: A Manufacturing Success Story
Woodstock, Ontario exemplifies the region's manufacturing renaissance. Home to major employers like Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada and a growing cluster of small and medium manufacturers, Woodstock combines:
- Strategic location at the intersection of Highways 401 and 403
- A skilled workforce drawn from the surrounding region
- Competitive industrial real estate
- A supportive business environment with municipal incentives
- Growing population and improving amenities
Manufacturing in Southern Ontario with AAI
Automated Assembly Inc. is proud to be part of Southern Ontario's manufacturing community. Located in Woodstock, we provide premium contract manufacturing services that leverage the region's advantages, skilled workforce, strategic location, and established supply chains.
As a vertically integrated manufacturer partnered with JGW Machine, we offer complete capabilities from raw material to finished product, serving industries across Canada and beyond.
Discover the Southern Ontario advantage. Contact us to discuss your manufacturing project.