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Canadian dairy cooperative Agropur has announced a sweeping investment plan of approximately CAD 1 billion (approx. $735 million) to modernise and expand key processing facilities in Eastern Canada.

The announcement was made during the Cooperative’s 2026 Delegates’ Summit, where Roger Massicotte, Émile Cordeau and Maxime Devourdy outlined major capital projects at plants in Beauceville, Quebec and Bedford, Nova Scotia.

The investments are aimed at strengthening Agropur’s capabilities in value-added protein manufacturing while responding to rising domestic demand for protein-enriched products.

Massicotte emphasised the cooperative’s commitment to its producer members, noting that the projects are designed to support sustainable growth across Quebec and the Maritimes. He also acknowledged the financial backing and collaboration of provincial governments in enabling the initiative.

Cordeau described the programme as a transformative step for Agropur’s processing network, highlighting the replacement of ageing infrastructure with advanced automation and cutting-edge technologies.

These upgrades are expected to deliver substantial efficiency gains, increase milk processing capacity and enhance the cooperative’s ability to produce higher-value dairy ingredients. The projects are also anticipated to generate more than 90 skilled jobs, with the majority based in Beauceville and additional roles in Bedford.

The Eastern Canada investments form part of a broader North American strategy to pivot toward value-added proteins.

According to Devourdy, Agropur has already committed more than CAD 130 million (approx. $96 million) this year to facilities in the United States, specifically in Wisconsin and South Dakota, to further strengthen its ingredients portfolio.

Beyond capacity expansion, the investment aligns with Agropur’s wider focus on operational excellence and sustainability. The cooperative is prioritising energy efficiency improvements and the adoption of more environmentally responsible production practices, reflecting growing industry pressure to balance productivity with environmental stewardship.

While the projects represent a significant milestone, they remain subject to final approval by the end of 2026. In the interim, Agropur will continue detailed planning and financing efforts to secure the necessary authorisations.