Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Limited (“Gay Lea Foods”) is pleased to announce it has entered into an agreement to acquire the shares of Alberta Cheese Company Ltd. (“Alberta Cheese”), effective October 13, 2017.
The purchase expands upon Gay Lea Foods’ renowned selection of Ontario-produced cheeses under the Salerno, Ivanhoe and Black River brands, and supports the co-operative’s plan to grow its presence in the Canadian dairy industry while providing exceptional service to its retail and foodservice customers.
Located in South East Calgary, Alberta Cheese was founded by master cheesemaker Frank Talarico in 1976 and has remained in the Talarico family for the past 40 years. The business specializes in the manufacturing of traditional Italian cheeses under the popular Franco’s and Sorrento brands, as well as the importation and distribution of cheese and other food products from around the world.
The successful integration of Alberta Cheese into Gay Lea Foods will add the Franco’s and Sorrento brand cheeses to Gay Lea Foods’ much revered selection of high quality and specialty cheeses produced in Ontario. The move will also further increase the production capacity of the co-operative, and expand relationships for Gay Lea Foods with Alberta foodservice providers, retailers and cheese-lovers alike.
Gay Lea Foods intends to maintain full operations at the Alberta Cheese plant and preserve all relationships with existing Alberta Cheese customers, suppliers and employees.
Source: Gay lea