As part of the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, the governments of Canada and Manitoba are investing up to $1,132,000 in Bothwell Cheese to advance its modernization efforts and enhance efficiency and productivity.
“Our goal is to retain and grow our world-class food enterprises to meet growing demand for protein-rich foods while fostering job creation within the agriculture sector,” said Manitoba Agriculture Minister Ralph Eichler. “This funding will allow Bothwell Cheese to create more jobs and process more milk right here in Manitoba, while also promoting water conservation.”
The project entails investments in modern processing equipment that will support the innovation of new products. Bothwell Cheese will also be completing a new waste-water treatment centre, while adding new water recycling equipment that will significantly reduce the company’s overall water usage.
“Our government is proud to support the modernization and competitiveness of the dairy processing industry,” said Dan Vandal, member of Parliament for Saint-Boniface – Saint Vital, on behalf of Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Marie-Claude Bibeau. “This investment will allow Bothwell Cheese to modernize their operations and increase their efficiency to meet growing consumer demand for their high-quality products here and around the world, while creating well-paying jobs in their community.”
“Bothwell Cheese has been crafting premium, all natural, artisanal cheeses since 1936. With the support of our local dairy producers and dedicated employees, we have been able to grow our business and share our great cheeses with many Canadians,” said Kevin Thomson, president, Bothwell Cheese. “With the help of this grant funding, we can continue to expand and look to even larger markets to showcase this great Manitoba product.”
This investment will allow Bothwell Cheese to increase its labour force by 20 full-time positions upon project completion with another 30 positions three years following project completion. Bothwell Cheese also plans to upgrade the technical skills of 25 existing employees. As equally important is the fact that Bothwell Cheese, three years after completion, anticipates increasing exports by $24 million annually.
