S&P Global Ratings (S&P) has upgraded the City of Barrie’s credit rating from ‘AA+’ to ‘AAA’, the highest possible rating, marking the first time in the City’s history it has achieved this distinction from S&P. S&P is the world’s leading provider of independent risk research offering credit ratings, data analysis, and equity research to both the private and public sectors worldwide. The upgrade allows the City to borrow at lower interest rates, reducing costs on major projects like roads, water systems, and recreation facilities—saving taxpayers money.1

 On October 29th, the new 103,000 square-foot UPS facility in south Barrie started construction. The new building represents UPS’s ongoing investment in expanding their network to meet growing business and residential demand in one of Ontario’s fastest-growing regions. This is also the inaugural project that has been streamlined through the City of Barrie’s Employment Development Concierge program, which helps facilitate development review and improves efficiency for eligible projects. 1 

 In October, Invest Barrie, in partnership with the County of Simcoe and the City of Orillia, proudly represented our region and its incredible businesses at the The Battery Show in Detroit. This year, we teamed up with the Canadian Trade Commissioner’s Office to showcase Canada’s leadership in advanced manufacturing and highlight the strength of our local companies and their world-class expertise.

On October 24th, the Barrie Business Awards celebrated more than achievement. They highlighted the spirit of our city and the people who make it thrive. 

Released quarterly, this document highlights key statistics, trends, and construction and business activities to keep businesses and investors up to date on the latest economic data.

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For Lease: New light industrial development with ample truck loading and parking areas and a mixture of dock and drive-in shipping doors. Flexible unit sizes: 2,000 -28,000 sq ft and 19 ft and 23 ft ceiling heights.

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For Lease: Well maintained freestanding facility. Precast construction. Easy Highway 400 access. Second floor mezzanine area included in size - 24,757 SF. Warehouse is partially racked. Generous shipping area. Trailer parking on-site. LED lighting in warehouse. Excellent clear height. 

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Invest Barrie will be attending major conferences and trade shows to promote Barrie and make new investment connections.

• PDAC Convention March 1-4, 2026 Toronto
• CANSEC May 27-28, 2026 Ottawa 

The City of Barrie was recognized at the Communities in Bloom (CiB) National and International Symposium and Awards Ceremonies in Stratford, Ontario. The City received the Healthier, Livable Cities Award with a Five Blooms – Gold rating, as well as a special mention for City’s ice storm tree recovery efforts.

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On November 18th, the City of Barrie recognized this year’s Arts Awards winners during a gala event at the MacLaren Art Centre. These awards honour individuals and organizations for excellence in the arts and contributions to the local arts community. 

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 Invest Barrie can connect businesses, big and small, to the information and support needed to start or grow, attract talent and stay competitive.

Contact us at 705-728-9850 or invest@barrie.ca.

 Visit investbarrie.ca to learn more.