Conagra Brands has invested in its tomato processing plant in Canada, with plans to upgrade software and streamline supply chain operations.

The Angie’s Boomchickapop popcorn and Healthy Choice meals owner said the “multi-million dollar” investment “will create more jobs” and “boost tomato production by 25%”.

The additions to the Dresden plant in Ontario include software upgrades, a new evaporator to increase tomato paste production and a new line dedicated to the Ro*tel brand.

Alongside the Ro*tel brand, which offers diced tomato and green chili blends, the Dresden plant also produces Aylmer and Hunt’s – two brands under which the company sells canned tomatoes, tomato sauce and tomato paste.

“These advancements to our Dresden plant represent an investment in Canadians and a continued commitment to expanding our operations in Canada,” Paul Hogan, vice president and general manager for Conagra Brands’ Canada and international business units, said.

“This investment will create more jobs, increase our capacity and ultimately meet the changing needs of our consumers, employees and those of the communities where we live and work.”

Just Food has contacted Conagra Brands for further details on the investment.

Alongside Mexico, Canada is one of two markets outside the US where Conagra Brands has plants, according to the company's most recent annual report.

The report also states the group has “interests in the ownership of international manufacturing facilities” in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Headquartered in Chicago in the US, Conagra Brands booked $12.3bn in sales its last financial year, representing growth of 6.4%. Net income, however, dropped 23% to $683.6m.

Adjusted EPS rose 17.4% to $2.77 and is forecast at $2.70-2.75 for the new year. The adjusted operating margin is expected around 16-16.5%.