Jersey Mike's Subs Grand Opening In Peterborough Taking Place On July 29

Another sandwich chain is coming to town as Redberry Restaurants is hosting the grand opening of Jersey Mike’s Subs at 947 Lansdowne Street W. in Peterborough on Wednesday.

In May, Jersey Mike’s pledged to raise $1 million by 2030 for Make-A-Wish Canada. Since 2024, the company has raised almost $300,000 for the organization. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This is the 25th Jersey Mike’s location in Ontario and the 36th in the country. The franchise said it plans to open 300 Canadian locations by 2035.

To mark the occasion, Redberry is hosting a fundraiser from July 29 to Aug. 2 to support Make-A-Wish Canada. Customers who receive a special fundraising coupon distributed through a grassroots effort prior to the opening can make a minimum $3 contribution to Make-A-Wish Canada in exchange for a regular sub. (Customers must have a coupon to be eligible). 

Those without a coupon can earn a free regular sub through the app after their first in-app purchase and can support Make-A-Wish Canada via a donation box near the register.

“As we extend our reach in Ontario, we’re excited for this summertime opening at the gateway to Kawartha Lakes cottage country,” said Ken Otto, Redberry CEO. “Peterborough is an active and engaged community and we know we can count on its support during our grand opening celebration and fundraiser for our friends at Make-A-Wish Canada.” 

@ptbo_canada @jerseymikes is having its Peterborough grand opening on July 29 at 947 Lansdowne St. W! From July 29 to Aug. 2, a fundraiser is being held in support of Make-A-Wish Canada. #fyp #news #ptbocanada #journalism #jerseymikessubs ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Fyrestoke Catering, IntegrAlign Partners and Central Smith Creamery

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Fyrestoke Catering has expanded with the launch of Fyrestoke Meal Prep, a new weekly service bringing fresh, chef-made meals to Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

Using locally sourced ingredients from farmers' markets and trusted butcher shops, the service offers individually portioned, never-frozen meals for busy professionals, families, and workplaces. It's a convenient option for businesses looking to provide staff meals, simplify lunch breaks, or support employee wellness with fresh local food. Learn more at fyrestokemealprep.com.

A new consulting firm focused on helping organizations adopt artificial intelligence and advanced technologies has officially launched in Douro-Dummer.

IntegrAlign Partners Corp., founded by Sherry Hill, specializes in operational improvement and business transformation, supporting businesses as they work to improve productivity and compete in a rapidly evolving economy. You can learn more about IntegrAlign by visiting their website: IntegrAlign.ca.

Central Smith is celebrating 130 years in business.

Founded in 1896 as a farmers' co-operative producing cheese and butter from locally sourced milk, the company transitioned to exclusive premium ice cream production in 1952. Family-owned by the Scates family since 1978, Central Smith now distributes its products across Canada while continuing to operate from its original location just outside Peterborough. To learn more go to: centralsmith.ca

A big thank you to everyone who submitted nominations for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards before the July 17 deadline. These awards are an opportunity to recognize the businesses, entrepreneurs, and community builders whose hard work, innovation, and commitment help our region thrive. We look forward to celebrating this year's finalists and recipients at the Business Excellence Awards on October 22 at Kawartha Downs. To stay up to date about the Business Excellence Awards, go to: pkcc.awardify.io

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Selwyn Township Appoints New Manager of Financial Services/Treasurer Following a Retirement From the Position

With the retirement of Manager of Financial Services/Treasurer R. Lane Vance, the Township of Selwyn has appointed Amanda Mellegers to the role.

Photo courtesy of Selwyn Township.

After more than 35 years of service, Vance’s retirement is effective on Sept. 30.

Mellegers, a chartered professional accountant, assumes the role on Aug. 24, which has five weeks of overlap with Lane to support the transition of responsibilities.

She has over nine years of leadership experience in financial management, treasury functions, budgeting, forecasting and strategic planning. Most recently, she served as Director, Finance at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), after advancing through progressively senior finance roles. Prior to PRHC, she progressed from CPA student to a management role at a local accounting firm.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Paris Marine, Eastside Boxing & Wellness and Heads Up For Inclusion

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Paris Marine is celebrating the huge milestone of 80 years in business!

For three generations, the Paris family has built a lasting legacy of exceptional service, community leadership, and helping families make memories on the water. Congratulations to Deborah Paris, Bill Paris, and the entire Paris Marine team on this remarkable achievement! To learn more about Paris marine, you can visit their showroom at 2980 Lakefield Road in Lakefield, or go to their website: parismarine.com

Eastside Boxing & Wellness is hosting an official Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, July 22 at 11 a.m. at 311 George Street North.

Community members are invited to join the celebration and see what's next for this growing local business. For more information and to register you can visit eastsideboxingandwellness.ca or follow them on Instagram, @eastsideboxingandwellness

Heads Up for Inclusion is hosting its free Walk & Roll event on Tuesday, July 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Del Crary Park.

The event celebrates inclusion and meaningful friendships. Drop in to enjoy a variety of inclusive activities, plus a barbecue hosted by the East Peterborough Lions Club. Everyone is welcome to come out, get moving, and celebrate community together. To learn more please email lyle_saunders@headsupforinclusion.ca

Don't forget, the deadline to nominate outstanding local businesses for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards is this Friday, July 17!

With award categories recognizing everything from Indigenous-led businesses to exceptional commercial renovations and community leadership. There are many opportunities to celebrate businesses making a difference across our region. Submit your nominations today by going to pkcc.awardify.io

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Fairbanks Morse Defense Establishes Official Canadian Headquarters After Rolls-Royce Acquisition

Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD) has finalized its acquisition of the Rolls-Royce Naval Handling facility at 597 The Queensway to serve as its Canadian headquarters, announced on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

A portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management, FMD is expanding the services division and supporting the revitalization of the Canadian defence industrial base at this location, according to George Whittier, FMD CEO.

“For nearly a century, Fairbanks Morse has been a proud partner of the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard. As Canada reinvests in its naval power and domestic manufacturing, FMD is positioned to localize a robust portfolio of trusted, mission-critical maritime solutions,” he said. “Securing the Peterborough naval handling facility solidifies our commitment to manufacturing in Canada. As a trusted supplier, we are ready to act as a strategic partner under Canada’s Build, Partner, Buy framework, outlined in the country’s first Defence Industrial Strategy.”

According to a press release, the hub will serve as a specialized facility for large-scale assembly, testing and integration for complex naval and undersea handling systems.

The Peterborough facility is currently supplying the Mission Bay Handling System to Canada’s River Class Destroyer (RCD) program, the United Kingdom’s Type 26 program and Australia’s Hunter-class anti-submarine warship program.

FMD says the facility will continue to build on its undersea warfare expertise, which includes shock-hardened towed-array winches, variable-depth sonar systems, and acoustic sensor-handling solutions that provide allied navies with a decisive edge against subsurface threats. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Lang Pioneer Village, Community Care Peterborough, Liftlock Cruises and Summer Soul Yoga & Wellness

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Step back in time at the 29th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on Sunday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lang Pioneer Village Museum.

Explore a spectacular display of antique and classic cars, trucks, and vintage motorcycles from across Ontario while discovering the history of transportation throughout the historic village. Visitors can also enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, live demonstrations, family activities, music, great food, and vote for their favourite vehicle. If you have a classic car, truck, or motorcycle, you can even register to display it and compete for more than 25 awards. For event details, participant registration, and admission information, visit: langpioneervillage.ca.

Community Care Peterborough is relocating their Apsley Office to Better Serve their clients. As of Monday July 27, 2026, Community Care in Apsley will be operating at 91 Curleigh Street in Apsley.

While only down the street from their current location, the new office will offer many benefits for clients, volunteers, and staff. The moving dates are set for Thursday July 23 and Friday July 24. The service office will remain operational over the phone only during that time. The Apsley Thrift Store, which is a key fundraising initiative and popular local shop that helps support Community Care’s programs and services, will be closed from July 20-24th and plans to re-open on July 27 at the new location. There will be a grand opening celebration planned for August. Follow Community Care in Apsley’s Facebook page for more details closer to the event. For more information, you can call their office (705) 656-4589.

Two local favourites are teaming up for the ultimate summer experience!

Liftlock Cruises and Summer Soul Yoga & Wellness are teaming up to bring the ultimate summer experience. The Pilates & Wellness Cruise will take place aboard the Island Princess on Saturday August 1 from 6:00pm-7:30pm with Pilates on the Upper Deck and Yoga on the Lower Deck For more information and to book your spot, email: wellness@summersoul.caIf you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Former Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough Executive Director Joins Big Brothers Big Sisters As Service Delivery Manager

Vanessa Bruce, the former Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough executive director, has been announced as the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough Service Delivery Manager.

Photo courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters Peterborough.

According to Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Bruce oversees mentoring program delivery, supports volunteer and youth matches and helps expand the agency's capacity to serve more young people through the power of mentorship. 

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining Big Brothers Big sisters of Peterborough and to continue doing meaningful work centered around community, connection and creating positive opportunities for young people and families. I look forward to being part of an organization that plays such a valuable role in the lives of so many.” said Bruce. 

“This is a significant step forward for our agency,"“ said Zoe King, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough executive director. “Vanessa's leadership, expertise, and commitment to supporting youth make her an exceptional addition to our team.”

Bruce became the executive director in February of 2023 and held the position for over three years, with her last day on Friday.

Bruce was a Fleming College graduate and has previously worked in child care with organizations such as the YMCA and Compass Early Learning & Care.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Community Futures Peterborough, Peterborough DBIA and John A. Brook

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Community Futures Peterborough whose mission is to have a thriving local economy where every entrepreneur feels supported, every business has room to grow, and the community prospers together, is celebrating a record-breaking year.

At their AGM last week they announced that in the fiscal year 2025-2026, the organization disbursed a record of 56 loans totaling over $2.06 million to local businesses across the City and County. Through these investments, Community Futures Peterborough helped create or maintain 167 local jobs. The Business Advisory Centre also delivered a record 541 consultations and supported more than 741 businesses through workshops and advisory services. For more information about Community Futures, please visit: communityfuturespeterborough.ca

The Peterborough DBIA has announced the return of Movies at the Park. The screenings will be every Tuesday from July to August in Quaker Foods City Square at 215 Charlotte St., downtown Peterborough.

The first screening will be on Tuesday July 7, 2026 showing The Secret Life of Pets. Admission is free and no registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to BYOB – bring your own blanket and come enjoy the vibrant downtown atmosphere with local businesses offering snacks, beverages, and treats to help make every night memorable. For more information visit: theboro.ca

Peterborough Real Estate Investment Coach, John A. Brook is launching his business: Pinnacle Real Estate Investing, a coaching and education company that helps investors make informed decisions.

Brook is a veteran real estate investment coach and business leader drawing on more than 40 years of experience. Pinnacle Real Estate Investing is also offering complimentary introductory consultations for anyone interested in exploring real estate investing or strengthening their current investment strategy. For more information you can visit: pinnaclerealestateinvesting.ca

Don’t forget, nominations are now open for the 2026 Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards!

The nomination process is quick and easy. Celebrate the business excellence in our community by submitting your nomination today! More information can be found at pkchamber.ca

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Regional Businesses Gather to Launch Peterborough Aerospace and Defence Cluster

There were 60 representatives from businesses, educational institutions and partner organizations gathered to officially launch the Peterborough Aerospace and Defence Cluster (PADC) on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The PADC is a regional network focused on supporting the growth of Peterborough’s aerospace and defence sectors and supply chains. 

The inaugural meeting brought participants together to explore opportunities to strengthen the local supply chain and position the region as a competitive location within Canada's aerospace and defence industries. 

During the meeting, participants formally established the PADC and identified key priorities, including workforce development. Attendees shared information about their organizations and explored opportunities for future collaboration. 

Launched through a collaboration between the City of Peterborough, The Loomex Group, ACF Associates, and Explorer Solutions, the PADC will connect manufacturers, suppliers, innovators, academic institutions, and government partners to support industry growth across the region. 

The PADC will help map and promote the regional supply chain, encourage collaboration among businesses, support workforce training and raise Peterborough’s profile as a destination for investment and innovation. 

The launch of the PADC is part of ongoing efforts to support local businesses, strengthen industry partnerships and create opportunities for long-term economic growth. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Community Futures Peterborough Celebrates Record-Breaking Year

During their annual general meeting, Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) celebrated a record-breaking year at the Venture North Building in downtown Peterborough on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough.

The record-breaking year was for lending and business advisory services. In fiscal year 2025-2026, the organization received more than $4.36 million in loan applications and disbursed a record 56 loans totalling over $2.06 million to local businesses across the City and County. Through these investments, Community Futures Peterborough helped create or maintain 167 local jobs.

“Forty years of Community Futures Peterborough means 40 years of believing in entrepreneurs, funding businesses, and strengthening our regional economy,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “We’ve played a key role in helping thousands of local businesses start, grow, and thrive, and today, we are so proud to honour that legacy.”

The Business Advisory Centre delivered a record 541 in-depth business advisory consultations and supported more than 741 unique businesses through its in-person workshops.

“This record-breaking year is a prime example of what happens when we cut red tape and deliver smart, streamlined services for our local economy,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By integrating the Business Advisory Centre under one roof, we have created an efficient, highly successful model that maximizes every dollar and puts entrepreneurship front and centre. Our government is committed to fueling economic growth, and by supporting Community Futures Peterborough, we are making sure local businesses have the direct capital and advisory tools they need to create jobs, drive innovation, and keep the Peterborough region open for business.”

“The integration of the Small Business Enterprise Centre program has reshaped how we deliver services as an organization,” said Wayne Harding, outgoing board chair. “The strong results from this fiscal year reinforce why bringing advisory and lending services together under one roof is an effective and efficient model for supporting entrepreneurs and our business community.”

This year’s AGM marked the departure of board chair Wayne Harding, who has served on the board of directors for 10 years, the maximum term. Sir Sandford Fleming employee and former small business owner Jenny Olauson was elected today as the new chair of the board of directors.

“It’s an honour to build on more than 40 years of impact,” said Olauson. “Our board has identified a strategic vision to build on the foundation of the Business Advisory Centre by expanding service offerings, deepening support for established businesses, and helping more businesses scale and grow across our region.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.