Ontario secures $23M investment deal with Diageo to protect jobs, boost agri-food sector 

Ontario Premier Doug Ford

February 13,2026

RED FM News Desk

The Ontario government has reached an agreement with global spirits company Diageo that will bring nearly $23 million in new investments to the province, while protecting local jobs and strengthening Ontario’s agri-food and beverage manufacturing sector. 

The deal follows months of discussions after concerns were raised about the possible closure of Diageo’s Crown Royal facility in Amherstburg.  

“These investments will help keep Ontario workers on the job, strengthen provincial supply chains and support the local community in Amherstburg and the surrounding area.” said Premier Doug Ford. 

Under the agreement, Diageo will invest in grain neutral spirits production in eastern Ontario, ready-to-drink beverage manufacturing in Toronto, new packaging in Scarborough, agricultural sector support, marketing initiatives, and community development funding in Amherstburg. Crown Royal products will continue to be sold through the LCBO. 

The government says the agreement strengthens Ontario’s end-to-end beverage alcohol supply chain; from farming and manufacturing to packaging and distributio and reinforces long-term economic growth across the province.