Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

La Trappe à Fromage, a family-owned dairy company based in Gatineau, has received a $3.68
million investment from the Quebec government and Investissement Québec to support a major
expansion of its operations. The funding will be used to increase automation at its factory and
expand its production capacity. The total cost of the project, which is expected to significantly
boost productivity, is valued at over $10 million.

Founded in 1995, La Trappe à Fromage has grown from a modest 1,800 square-foot facility to a
sprawling 71,000 square-foot complex. The company, which processes 16,000 liters of milk
daily to create a range of cheeses, has invested more than $26 million in the Outaouais region
over the years. “La Trappe à Fromage de l’Outaouais is proud to contribute to the economic
development of the Outaouais,” said Gilles Joanisse, the company’s president. “For over 30
years, we have been transforming Quebec milk into cheese in various forms. Our growth,
expansion, and automation have been made possible thanks to a close partnership with the
provincial government.”

Christopher Skeete, Minister Delegate for the Economy and Minister responsible for Laval,
underscored the importance of technological innovation in growing businesses. “Integrating
technological innovation into businesses is essential for boosting productivity. With this
investment, La Trappe à Fromage will be even more efficient in producing and distributing its
products across the beautiful Outaouais region and all of Quebec, much to the joy of consumers
who want to support local products,” Skeete explained.

Robert Bussière, the Member of Parliament for Gatineau, also expressed his pride in the
company’s growth, noting the lasting impact of the expansion on the region. “By supporting La
Trappe à Fromage, we are reinforcing our commitment to generating sustainable economic
benefits for the Outaouais region. I am proud to see this family business, which celebrates its
30 th anniversary this year, evolve in this way in Gatineau!”

The project will allow the company to increase production and enhance its competitive edge,
meeting the growing demand for high-quality, locally produced cheese. Joanisse also looked to
the future, adding, “This new chapter for our company reflects our commitment to innovation
and growth, and we are excited to continue expanding our reach both within Quebec and
beyond.”

Photo: Minister Christopher Skeete emphasized that integrating technological innovation is
crucial for boosting productivity, making La Trappe à Fromage more efficient in delivering its
products across Quebec. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo