Ontario dessert manufacturer to add automation, jobs in $8.5M upgrade

September 5, 2019 – A Canadian artisan dessert manufacturer is receiving nearly $3 million from the federal government to implement new automation and add 64 full-time jobs in an $8.5-million project.

La Rocca Creative Cakes in Richmond Hill, Ontario will create 60 manufacturing jobs and four management jobs as it positions to diversify its export markets.

In addition to FedDev Ontario’s contribution, the project includes $5.5 million in private sector investment.

As part of the project, La Rocca Creative Cakes will expand and renovate its existing facility, adopt Industry 4.0 technologies, and add advanced equipment to increase production capacity and further its manufacturing capabilities. 

Newly adopted automation and digital planning tools will help to improve efficiencies, reduce operating costs and minimize waste. In addition, the project will help shorten the development time needed to bring new products from design to market.

“We are very grateful for this FedDev Ontario funding, which is essential in helping accelerate our growth plans,” says Michael Givens, president, La Rocca Creative Cakes. “La Rocca Creative Cakes is committed to continuous improvement and with this support, we are able to adopt new innovative technologies and enhance our capabilities to remain competitive.”

Established in 1986, La Rocca Creative Cakes is a family-owned and operated food manufacturer of specialty cakes and desserts, which are supplied to fine food retailers across Canada, the United States, and markets as far as the Middle East.

Currently, the company operates out of its Richmond Hill bakery, employing more than 300 full-time staff, and producing more than 250 different products.

In 2017, the company opened La Rocca Creative Kitchen, a 2,400-square foot innovation centre to research and develop new products and processes, collaborate with industry leaders, attract new talent and engage with the community.