LONGUEUIL, QUE. — Agropur Cooperative, a North American dairy processor with annual sales of about $3.8 billion, has agreed to acquire the assets of Fromagerie Damafro, a producer of cheese and a Canadian leader in the production of Camembert and Brie. The transaction is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
“This is a good fit which expands our presence in markets for superior-quality products in what is a fast-growing segment,” said Serge Riendeau, chairman of Agropur.
Michel Bonnet, president of Damafro, added, “My family and I are delighted that Damafro is becoming part of such a solid organization. Agropur will invest in the business and build on the efforts we have made over the years.”
Damafro produces fresh milk cheeses and Greek yogurts. Its product line includes Bries and Camemberts such as Brie Snack, P’tit Connaisseur, Le Manoir, Le Trappeur double and triple crème, and goat cheeses such as Chèvre des Alpes, Le Chèvre Noir, Les Médaillons, Gouda de chèvre and many others. Since 2005, Damafro has processed goat’s milk in both Quebec and Canada, and distributes its cheeses in the United States.
Damafro employs 195 people. Once integrated into Agropur, all employees will report to Agropur’s Fine Cheese and Ingredients Division.
“This acquisition strengthens Agropur’s leading position in the production and marketing of fine cheese in Canada,” said Robert Coallier, chief executive officer of Agropur. “We will be able to offer our customers an even wider selection and continue innovating in the fine cheese sector.”
Agropur processes more than 3.3 billion liters of milk per year in its 31 plants across North America. Its products include such brands as Natrel, Québon, OKA, Farmers, Central Dairies, Sealtest, Island Farms, Olympic, Agropur Grand Cheddar and iögo.