Sandvik has commenced construction on an $85 million mining equipment centre in the Sudbury region of Ontario, marking a significant investment in the Canadian mining sector. The new facility, located in Lively, will serve as a hub for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, with an expected completion date in the third quarter of 2027. Spanning 115 acres, the site will house a 135,000-square-foot facility and is projected to employ up to 400 people once fully operational.
Peter Corcoran, Sandvik’s Vice President of Sales for Canada, emphasized the strategic importance of the new centre. “This new facility marks an important step forward in how we support our people and customers across Canada,” he stated. “We are building a modern, collaborative and future-ready work environment that reflects the rapid changes taking place in today’s mining industry.” Corcoran highlighted the facility’s alignment with Canada’s priorities around electrification and sustainability, underscoring Sandvik’s commitment to remaining a trusted partner for its customers.
The Sudbury facility is designed to meet growing customer demand for equipment maintenance, electrification capabilities, and efficient service turnaround. It will double the existing workshop capacity and feature modern workshop areas, expanded office space, welding facilities, a paint booth, and dedicated infrastructure for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Additionally, the centre will include a technology-focused simulator area for equipment operators and maintenance training, ensuring that the workforce is equipped with the latest skills and knowledge.
Sustainability is a key focus of the new facility, with the design prioritizing circularity, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and efforts to minimize environmental impact. This approach not only aligns with global trends towards sustainable mining practices but also positions Sandvik as a leader in environmentally responsible operations.
The project is supported by a grant of up to $4 million from the Invest Ontario Fund, reflecting the province’s commitment to strengthening critical infrastructure and domestic supply chains. Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, noted the significance of Sandvik’s investment. “As one of the most diversified manufacturing sectors in North America, Ontario continues to drive advancements that strengthen productivity and competitiveness across our critical industries,” he said. “Sandvik’s investment is not only a testament to the reliability and resilience of Ontario’s world-class workforce, but a great example of how investments in critical infrastructure will strengthen domestic supply chains and position the province at the forefront of industry transformation.”
The development of this new facility is poised to shape the future of the mining sector in several ways. Firstly, the increased capacity and advanced capabilities of the centre will enhance Sandvik’s ability to support its customers with faster, more efficient service turnaround times. This is particularly important in an industry where downtime can result in significant financial losses. Secondly, the focus on electrification and sustainability aligns with the global shift towards greener mining practices, positioning Sandvik as a leader in this transition. The investment in training and simulation technology also underscores the importance of upskilling the workforce to meet the evolving demands of the industry.
Moreover, the project highlights the growing collaboration between the private sector and government in driving economic development and innovation. The support from the Invest Ontario Fund demonstrates the province’s commitment to fostering a competitive and sustainable mining sector. This collaboration is likely to spur further investments and advancements in the industry, benefiting not only Sandvik but also the broader mining community in Ontario.
In conclusion, Sandvik’s new mining equipment centre in Sudbury represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the mining industry. By investing in advanced infrastructure, sustainable practices, and workforce development, Sandvik is positioning itself as a leader in the sector and setting a new standard for mining equipment maintenance and repair. The project’s success will likely inspire similar initiatives, driving innovation and growth in the mining industry for years to come.