Source: Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
The Honourable Elvis Loveless, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, joined executive members of the new Newfoundland and Labrador Dairy Co-operative today at Pondview Farms in Goulds to launch the co-operative and announce investments to transform the dairy industry in this province.
Minister Loveless announced an agreement to provide a $10-million loan for the Co-op in support of the acquisition of Agropur’s fluid milk processing and distribution facility in Mount Pearl, including the Central Dairies brand.
Minister Loveless was joined for the announcement by Crosbie Williams, founding member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Dairy Co-operative, and Scott Antle, president and chief administrative officer. The Co-operative is comprised of 19 dairy producers from across Newfoundland and Labrador who have united to further develop the industry, create new local jobs and spur additional local investment in the dairy sector.
In December 2023, the Co-operative entered into an agreement to purchase the Central Dairies brand, ultimately returning ownership of the brand back to the province. In addition to owning and operating Central Dairies, the Newfoundland and Labrador Dairy Co-operative supports retailers and their customers by distributing dairy products on behalf of Agropur and other processors, including butter, ice cream, cheese and cultured products such as sour cream. The Co-operative will also invest in expanding the availability of locally made products to meet the evolving needs of individuals and families.
In providing a $10 million loan for this initiative, the Provincial Government is supporting the continued growth, sustainability, and expansion of the Newfoundland and Labrador dairy industry.
Quotes
“Our Government is very pleased to support and assist the newly formed Newfoundland and Labrador Dairy Co-operative. We work closely with all who are growing our strong, local dairy sector, and the provision of this $10 million loan will contribute to local ownership and local employment, a strengthened economy, and increased food self-sufficiency in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Newfoundland and Labrador. For generations, our dairy farmers have delivered safe, high-quality, 100 per cent locally produced milk for our friends and neighbours. That will never change. But now, when you choose Central Dairies, you’re doubling down on the local benefits. You’re choosing a product that is produced, processed, and delivered here, by fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Crosbie Williams
Founding member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Dairy Co-operative and owner of Pond View Farm
“We’re excited about our investment in the Central Dairies brand and our ongoing relationship with Agropur, but it’s just the beginning. Dairy plays a vital role in Newfoundland and Labrador’s food self-sufficiency. And we’re proud to be leaders, investing and innovating so that more of the food we all love can be manufactured right here at home.”
Scott Antle
President and Chief Administrative Officer, Newfoundland and Labrador Dairy Co-operative
“We are building a leadership team that understands the unique challenges faced by both trade and household customers and we will be ready to face them head on. The Newfoundland and Labrador Dairy Co-operative is committed to meeting customer needs and is excited to deliver on our promise of getting quality products from our farms to your fridge.”
John Moores
Chief Operating Officer, Newfoundland and Labrador Dairy Co-operative
