Reports have suggested that Canada is experiencing spot shortages of cottage cheese primarily driven by viral social media “protein-maxxing” trends, which have contributed to a surge in national demand.
The co-operative has revealed it is planning to “significantly expand” its Clayson Road dairy manufacturing facility in Toronto to increase production across its high-protein dairy portfolio and strengthen processing capabilities.
This investment will create additional capacity across the farmer-owned, Canadian dairy co-operative’s growing portfolio.
It will introduce advanced processing technology and modern manufacturing capabilities designed to increase production capacity, strengthen productivity and enhance operational flexibility, the co-operative said.
The expansion, to be complete in 2028, will create up to 75 new positions at the Clayson facility, adding skilled manufacturing jobs.
The project marks the first major milestone in Gay Lea Foods’ $450-million Network for Growth strategy, a multi-year investment to strengthen and modernise the co-operative’s Canadian manufacturing network.
Gay Lea Foods said that cottage cheese had experienced “incredible growth” as Canadians seek nutritious, affordable health and wellness options to support evolving lifestyles.
“This investment reflects our confidence in the future of Canadian dairy and in Gay Lea Foods’ role in helping shape it,” said Suzanna Dalrymple, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gay Lea Foods.
“That future will be built on Canadian dairy farms and in modern processing facilities equipped to respond to evolving consumer preferences.”
“For more than 65 years, our farmer-members have invested to build a stronger future for Canadian dairy,” said Andrew Henderson, Chair of the Board at Gay Lea Foods.
“Expanding a facility that transforms Canadian milk into a product sold exclusively to Canadian consumers, is a natural extension of our co-operative’s legacy.”
Gay Lea Foods is a Canadian dairy co-operative owned by approximately 1,200 dairy farmer members in Ontario and Manitoba.
It is focused on achieving a sustainable business and earlier this year reported it reached 224% of greenhouse gas emissions reduction target and has committed to aiming to achieve net-zero emissions across specific categories by 2050.
