NFI Group Inc., a global leader in bus and coach manufacturing, along with its subsidiary New Flyer Industries Canada ULC, has celebrated a significant achievement in Canadian industrial development with the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Customer Acceptance and Delivery (CAD) facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This event, held on March 3, 2026, underscores a major step forward in strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities and supporting the nation's transition to cleaner transportation solutions.
A Milestone in Canadian Manufacturing
The inauguration of the CAD facility represents the next phase in NFI's ongoing expansion efforts, which have been bolstered by substantial investments from federal and provincial governments, as well as internal funding from the company. For the first time in 15 years, this facility enables NFI to complete the entire production process of heavy-duty transit vehicles, including zero-emission buses, entirely within Winnipeg. This development not only enhances Canada's manufacturing prowess but also positions Manitoba as a central hub for heavy-duty industrial operations.
Boosting Production and Creating Jobs
Construction on the CAD facility commenced in late 2024, with the first buses entering production in September 2025. By December 2025, NFI successfully delivered its inaugural All-Canadian build to Durham Transit, showcasing the facility's operational readiness. The new plant is projected to expand New Flyer's production capacity by up to 240 equivalent units annually by 2027, with an anticipated output of four line entries per week. This expansion allows New Flyer's U.S. facilities to concentrate more effectively on serving American customers, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between the two regions.
John Sapp, President and Chief Executive Officer of NFI Group, expressed immense pride in this achievement, stating, "We are extremely proud to officially open our new facility that achieves a strategic goal of enabling complete, start-to-finish Canadian bus manufacturing for Canadian customers. This is a major milestone for our company, the province, and the country as it creates hundreds of highly skilled jobs and a stronger domestic supply chain, alongside enhanced zero-emission production capabilities."
Government Support and Economic Impact
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, highlighted Canada's reputation for manufacturing excellence and a skilled workforce. She remarked, "New Flyer's new facility will design, engineer, and build the transit buses that Canadians rely on – right here in Winnipeg. This investment will continue to create hundreds of well-paying jobs and strengthen our domestic supply chain through an all-Canadian manufacturing hub."
Echoing this sentiment, The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, emphasized the importance of bolstering domestic capacity in critical industries. She noted, "The world has changed, and Canada must strengthen its domestic capacity in critical industries. Today's ribbon-cutting in Winnipeg marks a defining moment in Canadian manufacturing, and our government is pleased to have supported those efforts. For the first time in 15 years, buses built by Canadians, for Canadians, will be manufactured—from start to finish—on Canadian soil. On behalf of Canada's new government, congratulations to New Flyer and all involved in the All-Canadian Build initiative. This is building Canada strong in action."
Enhancing Sustainability and Supply Chain Resilience
This facility is poised to play a crucial role in advancing Canada's clean transportation agenda by increasing the production of zero-emission buses. Additionally, it strengthens the domestic supply chain, reducing reliance on international sources and creating a more resilient manufacturing ecosystem. The project aligns with broader environmental and economic goals, contributing to job creation and sustainable industrial growth in the region.
As NFI Group continues to expand its footprint, this new facility stands as a testament to the company's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and Canadian manufacturing excellence. The ribbon-cutting ceremony not only marks a proud moment for NFI and its partners but also signals a brighter future for the nation's transportation and industrial sectors.
