Thornloe Cheese Plant Shuts Down Abruptly, Leaving Community in Limbo

Award-Winning Thornloe Cheese Factory Permanently Closes, Leaving Community in Limbo

An Agri-food Institution Comes to an End

Thornloe Cheese, a beloved agri-food institution located on Highway 11 in Northern Ontario, has announced its permanent closure. The Mississauga-based parent company, Gay Lea Foods, made the announcement on October 30th, leaving patrons and the local community shocked and saddened.

Thornloe Cheese, known for its award-winning products, was acquired by Gay Lea Foods in December 2019 from Gencor, a farmer cooperative. The cheese factory and storefront, situated near the village of Thornloe, had become a popular destination for cheese enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Disappointment and Frustration within the Community

The closure of Thornloe Cheese has elicited a passionate response from the community. Timiskaming-Cochrane MPP John Vanthof, the NDP’s Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs critic, expressed his shock and disappointment over the announcement.

In a statement, Vanthof recounted the community‘s efforts to save the plant when Parmalat, the Montreal-based parent company, intended to close it in 2007. At that time, local dairy farmers rallied together, urging the company to sell the plant to local interests. Ultimately, Gencor became the new owner and transformed Thornloe Cheese into a producer of award-winning cheeses and other dairy products.

Vanthof also highlighted his support for the sale of the plant to Gay Lea Foods in 2019, based on their previous commitment to local communities. He expressed his dismay over the closure and pledged to speak with stakeholders in the coming days to explore potential solutions.

A History of Resilience

Thornloe Cheese’s closure marks the end of an 80-year history filled with challenges and resilience. Founded in 1940 by René Laframboise in the village of Thornloe, the business changed hands multiple times over the years.

In 2007, Parmalat purchased Thornloe Cheese, intending to shut down the facility due to high costs and low profits. However, Gencor stepped in, acquiring the operation and keeping it running. The company later merged with Eastern Breeders to form EastGen, but this partnership wasn’t a long-term solution.

Gay Lea Foods saw an opportunity to acquire Thornloe Cheese in December 2019, with the intention of enhancing the business in Northern Ontario rather than relocating it. The company’s CEO at the time, Michael Barrett, emphasized their commitment to investing in small communities and building a strong rural economic base.

The Impact on the Community and the Future

The closure of Thornloe Cheese not only affects the 30 employees who have lost their jobs but also the broader community. The cheese factory served as a source of pride and identity for the region, attracting visitors and contributing to the local economy.

Without Thornloe Cheese, the community now faces uncertainty and the loss of a significant agricultural landmark. The closure raises questions about the future of local dairy farming and the availability of high-quality, locally-produced cheese.

Residents and local leaders must now explore potential solutions to keep the spirit of Thornloe Cheese alive. Whether through finding new investors, forming local cooperatives, or seeking partnerships, the community‘s commitment to preserving this agri-food institution should not waver.

Preserving Local Institutions for the Benefit of All

The closure of Thornloe Cheese is a reminder of the challenges faced by small businesses, especially in the agricultural sector. It highlights the need for continued support and investment in local enterprises that contribute to the cultural fabric and economic growth of communities.

As Canada’s agricultural landscape evolves, it is crucial to strike a balance between efficiency and the preservation of local institutions. Large corporations, like Gay Lea Foods, must genuinely uphold their commitment to supporting rural communities and prioritize their long-term viability.

For now, the community surrounding Thornloe Cheese must come together to explore all possibilities and find a path forward. Through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication, they can work towards preserving the legacy of Thornloe Cheese and ensuring that future generations can enjoy its exceptional, award-winning products.