WINNIPEG, Manitoba — CentrePort Canada is positioning itself for a major expansion that could strengthen Manitoba’s role in food distribution, defence, aerospace and industrial manufacturing while attracting new investment and creating employment opportunities.
The inland port, which spans approximately 20,000 acres across Winnipeg and the Rural Municipality of Rosser, is benefiting from growing interest in industrial development and efforts to strengthen Canada’s supply chains.
Its strategic location and access to road, rail and air transportation have made it an important part of Manitoba’s economic development plans. New projects are expected to expand its industrial capacity and attract businesses serving domestic and international markets.
Proposed Food Terminal Could Strengthen Manitoba’s Food Security
One of the proposed developments involves a major food distribution terminal that could position Manitoba as an important centre for Canada’s food supply network.
Food & Beverage Manitoba, an industry association representing businesses across the province, is seeking federal support for a proposed 120,000-square-foot facility at CentrePort.
Michael Mikulak, the association’s executive director, has been discussing the proposal with federal departments as Ottawa advances its national food security strategy.
Under the proposed plan, approximately 15,000 square feet would be dedicated to a commercial production kitchen where Manitoba food businesses could rent space and access industrial equipment. The remaining space would primarily serve as a warehouse for storing and distributing food products.
The facility would also support smaller and growing food manufacturers that have outgrown farmers’ markets and small retailers but lack the resources to establish their own large-scale production and distribution operations.
Mikulak estimated that the project could cost between $150 million and $200 million, requiring a combination of public and private investment. The association hopes to submit a complete proposal to the federal government before the end of 2026.
Industrial Expansion Creates Opportunities for New Businesses
CentrePort’s expansion is also being supported by significant private-sector development proposals.
One major project is Catalyst Park, a proposed industrial development covering nearly 700 acres in CentrePort South.
Winnipeg-based Jessiman Family Investments has submitted an application to develop the site into an industrial park featuring space for manufacturing, warehousing and distribution businesses.
The development could also accommodate aerospace and air-freight companies, with additional facilities such as offices, retail spaces and employee amenities.
Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham has welcomed the proposal, pointing to its potential to attract investment and create well-paying jobs.
CentrePort Canada president and CEO Carly Edmundson has also described the project as an important milestone for the inland port’s development.
Defence and Aerospace Industries Expected to Benefit
Defence and aerospace development represents another important part of CentrePort’s long-term expansion strategy.
The area’s proximity to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport and Canadian Forces Base Winnipeg provides opportunities for businesses involved in aircraft maintenance, aerospace manufacturing, defence technology and advanced industrial production.
The federal and provincial governments have also announced funding for airside development at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport to support growth in aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing.
These investments are intended to improve trade infrastructure, strengthen supply chains and create opportunities for companies operating in strategic industries.
Meanwhile, the City of Winnipeg has established a Sky Economy Employment Zone Task Force to identify infrastructure requirements that could support long-term growth in aviation, aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing around the airport.
Infrastructure Investment Supports CentrePort’s Growth
Access to reliable infrastructure remains essential to attracting businesses and supporting industrial development.
In CentrePort South, a major water and wastewater servicing project is expected to open additional industrial land for development.
The infrastructure investment will make it possible for businesses to establish operations in areas that previously lacked the necessary municipal services.
CentrePort is also advancing plans for its rail park, which is expected to strengthen connections between businesses and Canada’s major transportation networks.
The inland port’s access to three continental railways, international trucking operations and Winnipeg’s air-cargo facilities provides businesses with multiple options for moving goods across North America and to international markets.
CentrePort Seeks to Strengthen Manitoba’s Economic Position
The proposed food terminal, industrial developments and investments in defence and aerospace reflect a broader effort to diversify Manitoba’s economy and strengthen its position within Canada’s transportation and manufacturing sectors.
The food distribution proposal could help smaller producers access larger markets, while industrial and defence-related projects could attract new companies and skilled workers to the region.
However, the projects remain at different stages of planning, approval and development. Their eventual economic impact will depend on investment decisions, government support, infrastructure delivery and the ability to attract businesses.
As CentrePort continues to expand, Winnipeg is seeking to build on its transportation advantages and establish itself as a major destination for investment, industrial activity and international trade.
Swifteradio.com
