The Magnum Ice Cream Company has officially launched its Canadian operations in Simcoe, marking a new chapter for one of Norfolk County’s oldest and most beloved manufacturing sites. The event brought together company executives, employees, and local leaders, celebrating both the factory’s historic roots and its vital role in the community.
When Unilever announced last year that it was leaving the ice cream business, questions quickly arose about the future of the Simcoe plant. On Thursday, those concerns were replaced with optimism.
Norfolk County Mayor Amy Martin, joined by several councillors and county officials, took part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mayor Martin praised the company’s ongoing commitment to local jobs and community involvement, noting that the Simcoe plant remains a cornerstone of the local economy.
“This factory has provided stable employment for generations,” Martin said, adding that its impact extends far beyond the workplace.
Gina Kiroff, General Manager for Ice Cream Canada, reflected on the site’s long history, once known as the J.B. Jackson plant.
She added they are proud to continue that legacy under the Magnum name.
Alper Kulak, Vice President of Supply America reaffirmed the company’s long-term investment in Simcoe emphasizing local production and growth opportunities.
Chief Supply Chain Officer Sandeep Desai said the de-merger from Unilever into the Magnum Ice Cream Company brings a major opportunity — allowing the company to focus entirely on ice cream and strengthen its commitment to Canada.
Desai concluded by saying, “Factories are about more than production—they’re about people, families, and the community.” The company’s executives welcomed ideas from council on ways to collaborate more closely with the County and the community. Mayor Martin was quick to offer one suggestion.
The event closed with a ribbon-cutting and a reminder of the company’s mantra, “Loving Simcoe,” which reflects its deep community ties. As Magnum Ice Cream Company prepares for its public debut this November, the celebration marked both a fresh start and a reaffirmation of Simcoe’s place at the heart of Canada’s ice cream industry.
Written by Jeremy Hall