Manufacturing in Winnipeg is on the rise and global investors are taking note. With a central location, world-class logistics, competitive business costs and a considerable range of industrial talent, Winnipeg has emerged as a smart, strategic base for manufacturers expanding in or to North America.  

Multinational firms like Boeing and Roquette have already made major investments here. And for executives and site selectors in the U.S. and Europe, Winnipeg is becoming a recognized leader in manufacturing, with global brands taking notice. That’s why Winnipeg was recently ranked by Site Selection magazine as one of Canada’s best locations to invest and recognized by The Globe and Mail as one of Canada’s most liveable cities.  

Here are five reasons why.

1. A central location with global reach  

Winnipeg sits at the heart of the continent, offering direct, efficient access to major markets across Canada, the United States and Mexico. More than 100 million people, who are also potential customers, are within a day’s drive. That proximity translates to shorter delivery times, lower freight costs and stronger regional integration for manufacturers with North American ambitions.  

At the core of Winnipeg’s infrastructure is CentrePort Canada, the country’s largest inland port and one of the largest tri-modal logistics hubs and Foreign Trade Zones in North America. With 20,000 acres of land and direct access to air, rail and truck transport, it’s built for companies that move products at scale. Shovel-ready sites and expedited permitting makes CentrePort Canada one of the most competitive manufacturing locations on the continent.  

Located in CentrePort Canada, access to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport is minutes away, offering a 24/7 cargo hub ranked second in Canada for dedicated freighter aircraft movements and Class I rail connections to both coasts and the Gulf of Mexico, making Winnipeg one of North America’s most connected manufacturing hubs.

2. Skilled talent and industry-aligned training  

Winnipeg offers what every manufacturer needs: a ready, reliable and highly skilled workforce.  

The city’s extensive expertise in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, agri-food and vehicle production is backed by institutions like RRC Polytech and the University of Manitoba, which tailor their programs to meet the needs of these high-growth industries.  

Global manufacturers benefit from this alignment. Boeing Canada Winnipeg, one of the aerospace giant’s largest composite manufacturing facilities outside the U.S., employs more than 1,500 workers and produces over 500 unique parts for major aircraft platforms. Their workforce is powered by decades of training, R&D, knowledge and experience right here in Manitoba.

3. Low costs. Clean power. High return.  

Operating in Winnipeg can also mean lower costs and fewer compromises.  

Compared to other major North American cities, Winnipeg offers more affordable industrial real estate, competitive labour costs and access to some of the most reliable and accessible electricity on the continent, and almost all of it is renewable, thanks to Manitoba’s hydroelectric grid.  

This clean energy advantage is a major draw for ESG-conscious manufacturers, including Roquette, the French multinational that invested CAD $600 million in building the world’s largest pea protein facility just outside Winnipeg. The company cited access to renewable power, agricultural inputs and reliable talent as reasons for choosing Manitoba. 

For firms seeking to limit operating costs without compromising on sustainability, Winnipeg checks both boxes.  

4. Global brands are already here. And they’re growing.  

Winnipeg’s manufacturing sector is home to several international brands:

• New Flyer Industries and Motor Coach Industries, both major North American bus manufacturers, design and produce cutting-edge electric and clean-diesel vehicles from Winnipeg.
• Magellan Aerospace, with long-standing roots in Winnipeg, delivers advanced aerospace components to international defence and commercial customers.
• MacDon, a leader in harvest technology and innovation, has operated in Winnipeg for over 75 years. It continues to capitalize on Winnipeg’s strong manufacturing value proposition.
• Boeing Canada Winnipeg is a Tier 1 supplier to the 737 MAX, 787 Dreamliner, and 777 programs. In 2023, it announced a $20 million expansion to increase capacity and energy efficiency. 
• Roquette’s state-of-the-art facility helps meet soaring demand for sustainable, plant-based proteins, serving clients across the globe. 

This is not an emerging sector. Manufacturing is well established within Winnipeg, and there is capacity and momentum to support even more growth.  

5. Partnership-driven economic development  

Winnipeg offers more than advantages — it offers advocates.  

Economic Development Winnipeg (EDW) is a full-service partner for companies looking to expand into the region. EDW helps investors with:  

• Site selection and property searches. 
• Market intelligence and business case development. 
• Talent recruitment and immigration support.
• Connections to government, academia and local suppliers. 

This proactive, hands-on support has helped countless companies navigate their first steps in Winnipeg and move seamlessly from planning scope to being fully operational.  

Should you consider Winnipeg for your next move?  

If you’re seeking a North American location with proven logistics, industry-trained talent, competitive operating costs and worldwide momentum, Winnipeg should be on your shortlist. 

Companies like Boeing, Roquette and Magellan Aerospace aren’t just investing here — they’re thriving here. And, with strong local partnerships and a wide range of support, Winnipeg is ready to help your business do the same.  

Connect with Economic Development Winnipeg to explore investment opportunities, review available sites or build your business case.