Vermont Creamery celebrated the start of its facility expansion project with a groundbreaking ceremony May 9.
The production facility expansion will take place over three phases, increasing the Creamery’s Websterville, Vermont footprint by 38 percent including the renovation of the existing fresh cheese facility. All three phases have a target completion date of October 1, 2020.
The ceremony featured Brad Bass, Vermont Creamery, Director of Operations, Adeline Druart, President, Vermont Creamery and Chris Roberts, EVP, Land O’Lakes and president, Dairy Foods.
Vermont Governor Phil Scott also spoke at the ceremony, acknowledging the importance of the dairy industry in Vermont and nationwide.
“We’ve started new chapter in our story that began 35 years ago on a small goat farm in Vermont,” says Adeline Druart, president, Vermont Creamery. “As we scale our business and prepare for the growth ahead, we will not only increase our plant capacity but also leverage our new infrastructure to further our mission, spur innovation and fortify our company culture.”
In addition to strong business performance, the acquisition of Vermont Creamery has provided valuable insight into new and emerging markets.

Chris Roberts, EVP, Land O’Lakes and president, Dairy Foods alongside Adeline Druart, President, Vermont Creamery

“As a nearly 100-year-old farmer-owned cooperative, Land O’Lakes has always believed we can achieve more by working together,” says Roberts. “Together, Land O’Lakes and Vermont Creamery share an appreciation for purpose, people and high-quality products, and together, we are learning, growing and advancing the industry. This expansion is an exciting next step in our journey.”

Construction timeline

Phase one began on May 9 and focuses on new milk receiving and intake processing equipment, and is expected to be completed in December 2019.
Phase two supports infrastructure updates, including equipment, refrigeration, heating system, loading docks and warehousing and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2020.
Phase three will include employee enrichment and welfare areas like common break areas, locker rooms and training facilities. Completion of phase 3 is expected in the third quarter of 2020.
Since acquiring Vermont Creamery in 2017, Land O’Lakes has invested in the Creamery’s infrastructure to facilitate business growth, increase product distribution and grow its workforce in Websterville, Vermont.