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Dairy Processing

As new consumer preferences and dietary needs change, there’s one thing that can’t be denied: Canada’s dairy industry is intrinsically tied into the culture of the country.

As Canada’s second-largest food manufacturing industry, roughly 10,000 dairy farms contribute to more than $16 billion to the country’s GDP each year. This translates to more than 9.2 billion litres of milk from 500 processing plants across Canada.

But as with many industries across Canada, the dairy processing industry is in a bit of flux. The existing quota system has forced many producers to branch out into niche spaces to increase their profitability, and changes in trade regulations are coming in the near future.

By taking a holistic look at the industry, the market, and the people that keep it running, MNP’s Dairy Processing service line helps our clients ensure they’re flexible, adaptable, and knowledgeable to prepare for whatever the future might hold.

How we can help

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Corporate finance and integration

The full value chain knowledge MNP’s team brings to clients enables them to better understand the market as a whole and helps assess their individual situation to appropriately find finance buyers or sellers for integration. Long-term sustainability will look different for each company but exploring the options available ensures informed decision

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Consulting

Whether clients are looking to boost profitability, better understand modelling and projections, or assess how government or marketing input changes might affect their bottom line, MNP advisors take a fulsome approach. By analyzing the business, using benchmarking to determine how they stack up, and finding areas for improvement, we work closely with clients to determine their unique needs and develop a plan to meet goals.

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Performance improvement

A volatile economy has forced many in the dairy processing industry to put their plans on hold. But unlocking your full potential doesn’t have to wait. From optimizing business processes and resource investment to aligning organizational objectives and strengthening internal controls, MNP’s Performance Improvement team helps create lasting efficiencies to allow for, and even promote, growth.

Market trends

Here are some key trends happening in the dairy processing industry today:

  • Government allowances as it relates to the quota system.
  • Artisanal, locally made products, dairy alternatives, and organic/sustainable operations.
  • Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) commitments and preparing for regulatory reporting requirements.

Staying on top of this evolving market isn’t something dairy processors need to do alone. MNP’s team specializes in catering our approach to your needs and taking the guess work out.

Insights

  • Performance

    April 02, 2024

    Five strategies to navigate the economic headwinds facing food and beverage processors

    Against the backdrop of an uncertain economy, we assess how food and beverage businesses can improve operational efficiency, manage costs, and increase profitability.

  • December 06, 2023

    Planning for long-term success in your craft brewery

    Whether you’re hoping to grow your brewery or position the business for sale down the road, setting yourself up for success means looking ahead.

  • October 23, 2023

    Managing your craft brewery’s cash flow amid economic uncertainty

    Careful analysis and control make improving cash flow possible despite difficult and unpredictable times.

Contact Our Food and Beverages Processing Team

Matt MacDonald MBA

National Leader, Food & Beverage Processing

Matt is MNP’s National Leader of the Firm’s Food and Beverage Processing practice and a Business Advisor, Assurance and Accounting, in Mississauga. Matt proactively helps clients manage their business and set strategic goals for both their personal and professional futures. By leveraging his extensive experience working with family businesses and clients across multiple sectors, Matt helps his clients implement practical business advisory, tax, and accounting strategies, along with strong business fundamentals.

An active participant in the food and beverage processing industry and various associations across Canada, Matt brings more than 15 years of experience to his role as a trusted advisor.

Matt received an Honours Bachelor of Arts (BA) in political science and economics from McMaster University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in executive leadership and finance from Liberty University.

Matt has extensive board experience in both the private and not-for-profit sectors, most recently serving as a national director for Make-A-Wish Canada. He sits on the Oakville Chamber of Commerce board of directors.

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