Gay Lea acquires Stirling Creamery

Mississauga, Ont.-based Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Limited is acquiring the Stirling, Ont.-based Stirling Creamery Limited, effective November 1.

This acquisition builds upon Gay Lea Foods’ existing butter operation in Guelph, Ont., and supports Gay Lea’s plan to create sustainable long-term solutions for growth within the Canadian dairy industry, according to a press release from Gay Lea.

Located in the village of Stirling, Ont., Stirling Creamery is known for its range of artisanal crafted natural and flavoured butters, including Churn 84 European-style butters, whey butter, Stirling Premium Balls, and a variety of flavoured medallions and spreads for foodservice applications.

“Stirling Creamery, like our co-operative, has a strong and rich history in the province of Ontario. With this acquisition, we continue the tradition of supporting family farms in Ontario while further strengthening Gay Lea Foods’ presence in the Canadian dairy industry,” says Steve Dolson, Chair, Gay Lea Foods.

Stirling Creamery has approximately 25 employees, most of whom are based in Stirling, with additional sales staff in the Greater Toronto Area. The creamery was established by the West family in 1925 and has been owned and operated by Butterball Farms (U.S.) since 2006.

“Today’s announcement is an exciting next chapter for Stirling Creamery, bringing together two companies with a shared commitment to producing high quality dairy products while working to enrich the lives of their employees, members, neighbours and communities. We look forward to working with Gay Lea Foods as Stirling Creamery becomes part of this successful and growing Canadian co-operative.” says Mark Peters, CEO Stirling Creamery, Butterball Farms.

This deal is also expected to provide Gay Lea Foods with more flexibility to meet customer needs in the current high-demand market for butter, according to Gay Lea. The company intends to maintain full operations at the Stirling plant and preserve all relationships with existing Stirling Creamery customers, suppliers and employees.

“Gay Lea Foods is committed to growing the market for Canadian dairy and we are pleased to welcome such a well-respected brand into our dairy co-operative. We look forward to new opportunities as we continue to focus on growing a strong, sustainable dairy industry that delivers innovative, market-driven dairy products,” says Michael Barrett, president and CEO, Gay Lea Foods.