Think local; Economic development depends largely on adding value to what's already being done

A consultant recommends Bruce and Grey counties encourage value-added enterprises, agri-tourism and local food systems.

In a report prepared for the Grey-Bruce Regional Economic Development Partnership, George Schrijver of WCM Consulting noted Chapman's Ice Cream in Markdale is the area's only major food processing plant.

He said traditional economic development strategies are unlikely to attract other major food processing plants because of distances and lack of transportation and stressed the importance of being realistic about what advantages the area has in its efforts to attract a large food processing plant.

"You better have a good case for it as opposed to a nice brochure that says we're a wonderful place to be why don't you come here," said Schrijver He compared the Grey Bruce area with eastern Ontario, which may be best positioned to attract large food processing plants because of its proximity to the transportation corridor - rail, road and seaboard - and easy access to U.S. markets. That region recently attracted a new Kellogg's plant.

Schrijver said Grey-Bruce has a number of strengths, such as a skilled labour force and infrastructure coupled with the potential to supply local consumers, retailers and specialty markets in the cities.

Schrijver recommends using the Bruce-Grey name to boost marketing - so long as there's consistent quality and quantity of product. He also listed 10 ways the region could promote value added products: Read more here.