Holsag Canada to Shut Down Ontario Plant and Move Operations to the U.S.

Holsag Canada to Shut Down Ontario Plant and Move Operations to the U.S.

Holsag Canada to Shut Down Ontario Plant and Move Operations to the U.S.

A long-standing piece of Ontario’s manufacturing heritage is about to fade. Holsag Canada, a well-known furniture manufacturer based in Lindsay, Ontario, has announced that it will be closing its doors in March 2026. The move comes as part of a decision by its parent company, Mity Inc. of Utah, to consolidate operations in the United States — a change that’s set to cost around 130 local jobs.

The company, famous for crafting high-quality wooden chairs, barstools, and benches from European beech hardwood, has been a part of the Lindsay community since 1990. Originally founded in Europe in 1960, Holsag built a solid reputation for durable, handcrafted furniture used in restaurants, retirement homes, and healthcare facilities across North America. For many in the Kawartha Lakes region, the brand has been more than just a business — it’s been part of the community’s economic backbone for decades.

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According to Mity CEO Kevin McCoy, the closure was not an easy decision but one made after what he described as “a comprehensive review of global operations.” He emphasized that the choice reflects current economic realities, including fluctuating tariffs, shifting trade policies, and rising production costs. McCoy expressed gratitude toward the Canadian workforce, praising their dedication and hard work, while acknowledging the challenges of maintaining profitability under the weight of unpredictable trade conditions.

The City of Kawartha Lakes is now bracing for the loss. Mayor Doug Elmslie called the closure a “major blow” to the local economy, highlighting that manufacturing jobs in the area have been steadily disappearing over the years. He noted that much of Holsag’s business was tied to the U.S. market, and with tariffs reaching up to 30 percent, the company simply couldn’t sustain operations in Canada.

Local officials, including MPP Laurie Scott, have described the move as “devastating,” pointing to the broader effects of ongoing trade tensions under the Trump administration. These pressures, combined with increasing costs and global economic uncertainty, have made it increasingly difficult for Canadian manufacturers to compete.

While Mity Inc. says it will offer severance, benefits, and transition support to affected employees, the emotional and economic impact of the closure will be deeply felt in the region. Many residents see this as yet another reminder that even small, rural communities are not immune to global trade and economic shifts.

In McCoy’s words, the company’s focus now is on ensuring “sustainable growth in a changing global environment.” But for the workers and families in Lindsay, Ontario, the closure of Holsag marks the end of a proud era — one built on craftsmanship, community, and decades of hard work that will not soon be forgotten.

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