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August 2025

Triforest Inc. has announced a $10 million expansion at its manufacturing plant in Ajax. The investment is the result of collaborative efforts between Triforest, Invest Durham and the Town of Ajax’s Business Engagement and Supports Team.

Triforest, a global specialist in laminate flooring and related products, established its first North American factory in Ajax in 2023. The introduction of four SPC (stone plastic composite) flooring production lines is expected to create more than 80 full-time jobs and generate $100 million in annual output.

The expansion is a significant achievement in advanced manufacturing and job creation. It will help strengthen economic growth in our region and position Durham as a world-class manufacturing hub.

Hans International Expands to Whitby

Hans International Group is expanding its presence in Durham Region with a new industrial warehouse in Whitby.

Hans International is a multidisciplinary company specializing in steel fabrication, land development, general construction, and modular housing solutions. Ten years ago, Hans Steel Canada established its structural steel fabrication facility in Uxbridge. 

Since then, it has become a supplier for major infrastructure projects across Ontario. They also recently launched a new modular housing line, currently in the prototype phase. 

If you're looking to expand, locate or establish your business in Durham Region, Invest Durham can help. Connect with Invest Durham today.

Available On-Demand: Business Strategies and Trade Support Webinar

Miss our recent webinar on navigating global trade challenges? The full session is now available to watch online.

This presentation explores how Canadian businesses can stay resilient in the face of tariffs, market volatility, and other global shifts. Discover strategies for trade diversification, learn about specialized financing solutions like the Tariff Loan, and advisory services through the Trade Resilience Plan. Plus, uncover international growth opportunities available to Ontario companies and the resources available to help succeed on the global stage.

Visit Invest Durham’s Tariff Response page to stay informed and stay ahead in this shifting trade landscape.

The North Durham Enabling Agriculture-Related and On-Farm Diversified Uses project has taken another important step forward. Councils in the Townships of Brock, Scugog, and Uxbridge have endorsed the study’s final recommendations.

They include clearer and more consistent land use policies, flexibility for diversification, and a more streamlined application process while balancing farmland protection. 

These changes will support farmers with diversifying and expanding their businesses and support the growth of businesses that provide direct products or services to farm operations and support agriculture. Examples include, but are not limited to: 

Agriculture-related uses: 

• Farmers’ market primarily selling locally owned products 
• Cidery using local apples 
• Farm equipment repair shop 

On-farm diversified uses: 

• Agri-tourism use such as a corn maze or seasonal event  
• Home occupation such as a bookkeeper or hairdresser 
• Café or food store 

Each Township is implementing the recommendations with updates to their Official Plans, Zoning By-laws, and Site Plan Control By-laws. Scugog will hold a Public Open House on September 15 and plans to complete the process by early 2026. Brock is also planning to complete implementation in early 2026, with Uxbridge following at a later date.

Durham Region’s Camille Lawrence is a dynamic force in Canadian television. Over the past decade she has worked behind the scenes on some of the country’s top programs, including Amazing Race Canada, Still Standing and MasterChef Canada.

As a Story Producer and Story Editor in unscripted television, Camille enjoys diving into diverse worlds and helping participants share powerful moments. She is also passionate about supporting local voices in Durham Region.  

Having produced and directed a web series that spotlight young Black entrepreneurs, Camille explains, “it’s important that I use my skills and experience to support Durham talent because there are so many people doing great work here. I want these stories to shine too.” 

The Township of Uxbridge is still accepting requests for Expressions of Interest for the purchase and re-development of a keystone property on lower Brock Street. The 1.9-acre property is in the heart of Uxbridge’s historic downtown. Submissions will be accepted until August 5 at 2 p.m.

To be considered for the next phase of the project, including negotiations with the Township, an Expression of Interest must be submitted using the Township's online portal.

Events and Partnerships

Digital Ads Done Right 

Frustrated with digital ads that just aren’t working? Join the BACD (Business Advisory Centre Durham) for this hands-on workshop: Budgeting and Scaling Ads the Right Way. 

Social media expert and workshop facilitator Kat Spargalo will show you how to tweak your campaigns for better results. This practical session is designed for small businesses looking to target the right audiences, troubleshoot, and optimize their digital ads. The course takes place online at noon on August 20 at a cost of $10.

Recent Business News

Statistics Canada says the economy contracted for a second straight month in May, but there were signs of a rebound in June. Learn more about expectations for Canada’s Gross Domestic Product. 

The Bank of Canada is holding its key policy rate at 2.75 per cent for the third time in a row, citing a diminished risk of a severe and escalating global trade war. Read more about the Bank’s decision. 

The Ontario government is investing $7.5 million to help businesses go digital. Small and medium-sized companies could be eligible for funding that determines their digital needs and to access the needed tools and technologies to boost productivity and sales. Find out about available funding. 

Ontario is also investing in agri-food research to help farmers and agribusinesses compete globally. $5.4 million will be invested in 28 new research projects. Read the government’s news release.

Contact Us

Toll-free: 1-800-706-9857

InvestDurham.ca 



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