Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Ltd. is pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached, effective Feb. 1, 2014, to acquire Salerno Dairy. Salerno, a family-owned company in Hamilton, Ontario, has manufactured specialty Italian cheese for over 50 years.

“With this acquisition we are merging two of Ontario’s best traditions: a farmer-owned co-operative and a family-owned business.” said Chair Paul Vickers.

“We are excited about the opportunities this expansion will bring.” Salerno CEO Angelo Fidanza added, “We believe Gay Lea Foods will do an excellent job of carrying forward our heritage of quality and our dedication to fine cheese.”

Salerno Dairy manufactures an extensive selection of traditional Italian cheeses. Its significant repertoire of specialty products includes hard, soft, semi-soft and shredded cheese and cheese blends under the brands Salerno and Gos & Gris. From mozzarella to mascarpone, and bocconcini to pecorino, its products are widely available in retail stores and through major foodservice suppliers. 

“This acquisition will allow Gay Lea to establish relationships with new customers and to build on existing partnerships with new offerings and opportunities,” said Andrew MacGillivray, president and CEO of Gay Lea Foods. “This acquisition holds great promise for the years ahead.” 

A cheese producer since 1962, Salerno Dairy’s main plant is located in Hamilton, Ontario. It has a warehouse and distribution centre in Montreal, Québec and its Gos & Gris manufacturing plant in Hannon, Ontario. It employs 185 people amongst the three locations.