Historic paper mill to become logistics hub in Northern Ontario

The former Abitibi Paper Mill in Iroquois Falls is being transformed into a multimodal logistics hub as part of a new redevelopment project launched by BMI Group.

Dubbed Abitibi Connex, the initiative aims to bolster Northern Ontario’s logistics capacity by leveraging the site’s existing infrastructure and direct rail access to support industries including natural resources, agriculture and food.

“We’ve had people ask us, ‘why now?’” said John Veldman, chief operating officer of BMI Group. “For a long time, the market lacked the drive to invest in idled assets. That’s changed. Today, industrial sites with multimodal capabilities are key to strengthening Canada’s supply chain resilience.”

The 838-hectare site includes 144,000 square feet of warehouse space, eight loading docks, storage silos, two rail bays and land designated for industrial, agricultural and forestry use. An anchor tenant has already been secured to support major construction projects in the region.

Since acquiring the property in 2016, BMI has restored power and upgraded infrastructure. The redevelopment gained momentum in September 2024 with a $20-million investment from the Northland Participation Fund, a joint venture between BMI and Dutch investment group Business EQ.

Ontario Northland is set to upgrade the 11.5-kilometre rail line connecting Porquis Junction to Iroquois Falls to support the hub.

“We are delighted to support this initiative with track upgrades and look forward to providing BMI’s Abitibi Connex with rail services,” said Chad Evans, CEO of Ontario Northland. “This investment will enhance connectivity and support economic development for Iroquois Falls and businesses throughout the region.”

The project is being developed in collaboration with the Town of Iroquois Falls and J.L. Richards & Associates, who are leading the master planning process.

“Iroquois Falls is proud to partner with BMI. This innovative use of the mill as a logistics base will attract investment, businesses, and jobs to our community,” said Mayor Tory Delaurier.

BMI says Abitibi Connex is set to become a cornerstone of Northern Ontario’s evolving logistics network.