On December 3, Lactalis Canada Inc., a leading dairy company known for brands like Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Balderson, Astro, and Lactantia, celebrated the official opening of its new Oshawa Distribution Centre. The facility, located in Northwood Business Park, is now the largest distribution centre by capacity within Lactalis Group globally.
Driving Growth and Sustainability
The new 379,000-square-foot facility strengthens Lactalis Canada’s supply chain, primarily supporting its cheese and tablespreads business. Designed with sustainability in mind, the centre reflects the company’s commitment to efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Key features include:
- Storage Capacity: Up to 60,000 pallets in cooler and freezer environments.
- Energy Efficiency: Use of high-efficiency lighting, advanced insulation, and energy-efficient equipment to reduce power demands.
- Zero-Carbon Ready: Fully powered by Ontario’s grid with no reliance on non-renewable energy sources, with future plans for solar panels to offset power needs.
- Heat Reclamation: Heat generated from the refrigeration system is reused to warm offices and melt snow on truck aprons for safety.
- White Roof: Designed to minimize the heat island effect.
Lactalis Canada President & CEO Mark Taylor emphasized the facility’s role in meeting evolving customer needs, advancing sustainability goals, and driving growth in Canada. He also highlighted Lactalis Canada’s commitment to the Oshawa community by providing employment opportunities for approximately 80 people, along with skill development and career growth initiatives.
Partnerships in Development
The Oshawa Distribution Centre was developed and built by Broccolini, with building design supported by GKC Architecture and Design. CBRE Limited facilitated the long-term lease agreement.
With this state-of-the-art facility, Lactalis Canada continues to solidify its position as a leader in Canada’s dairy industry while advancing its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) agenda.
