Canadian chicken and turkey processor Exceldor is investing in a new distribution center to help accelerate its growth and meet growing demand for its products.
The cooperative, whose shipping facilities are working at full capacity, announced on December 7 that it plans to construct the distribution center with plans of it becoming the hub of its logistical chain.
The new 135,000 square foot distribution center will require a CA$35 million (US$27.2) investment and employ about 60 workers. It will be strategically located in Beloeil, Quebec, next to the Jean-Lesage highway.
"The distribution center's design will greatly increase effectiveness and optimize our processes. Destined to become a veritable logistical nerve center, it will link our many production sites to the ultimate delivery to our customers," said René Proulx, president and chief executive officer of Exceldor.
Construction of the facility is expected to begin in the spring of 2018 with commissioning slated for the first quarter of 2019. The project requires prior consent from the City of Beloeil with which Exceldor is working closely.
"The vitality of the poultry market, combined with the quality and freshness of our products, makes for highly interesting business prospects. We are excited to launch this new chapter of growth with the commitment of our members and the dedication of our employees, with whom we have proudly collaborated in growing our organization," added Proulx.
Exceldor stated that the company will retain ownership of the new facility and will decide in the coming weeks which specialized logistics company will manage the day-to-day operations.
Exceldor, a 260-member cooperative, also co-owns three other businesses in the poultry sector: Unidindon and Giannone Poultry in Quebec, and Golden Valley in Ontario. The company markets its products under several brand names, including Exceldor and Butterball. It has over 2250 employees and revenues of approximately $700 million.
