D&R Custom Steel announces major expansion with new Bowmanville facility!

D&R Custom Steel Inc. has announced plans to significantly expand its operations in Ontario through a relocation to a new purpose-built facility in Bowmanville. The move represents a major investment in capacity, technology and workforce growth, positioning the company for long-term expansion in both domestic and international markets.

The new facility will more than double the company’s shop capacity, increasing from its current footprint to approximately 48,000 square feet. In addition, the overall property size will expand from 1.5 acres to a 6-acre site, providing ample space for future growth and operational scaling. This expansion reflects D&R’s commitment to strengthening its manufacturing capabilities and meeting increasing demand across key industries such as water treatment, air treatment, mining and material handling.

A key feature of the new facility is the inclusion of a dedicated 4,500 square foot acid pickling and passivation bay. This specialized area will allow the company to carry out advanced metal surface treatment processes in-house at a larger scale. By bringing these capabilities under one roof, D&R aims to improve quality control, reduce turnaround times and offer more comprehensive solutions to its customers.

The expansion also includes an investment of more than $4 million in new equipment and technology upgrades. This includes advanced metal washing systems and modern fabrication technologies designed to enhance efficiency, precision and overall productivity. These upgrades will enable the company to handle more complex projects while maintaining high standards of quality and performance.

Strategically located on Lake Road, the new Bowmanville facility offers improved connectivity to major highway networks. This location advantage will enhance D&R’s ability to serve customers across Canada while also improving access to the U.S. market. The improved logistics and distribution capabilities are expected to support faster delivery times and strengthen the company’s competitive position.

In addition to operational benefits, the expansion will support workforce growth beyond the company’s current team of 65 employees. The new facility is expected to create additional skilled jobs, contributing to the development of Ontario’s manufacturing sector and supporting the broader industrial ecosystem.

According to company president Dan Engelage, the relocation is a strategic step toward improving efficiency, enhancing competitiveness and building long-term capacity. He emphasized that the investment will not only support business growth but also contribute to essential infrastructure sectors that rely on high-quality stainless steel equipment.

Construction and site development are already underway, with the company targeting relocation to the new facility by the second quarter of 2027. Once completed, the Bowmanville site will serve as a modern, technology-driven hub for D&R Custom Steel’s operations, enabling the company to scale its capabilities and better serve evolving customer requirements.

Overall, this expansion underscores D&R’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainable growth, reinforcing its role as a key player in Canada’s fabrication and industrial manufacturing landscape.