Local Cheese Producer Renovates Facility for Growth
An established fine cheese company in the Annapolis Valley since 1985, Holmestead Cheese Sales Incorporated is looking towards the future and making expansions necessary to secure long-term growth.
Known for their high quality feta, Holmestead Cheese has been able to secure contracts with several large retail grocers across Canada--including Sobeys, Loblaws and Wal-Mart. Holmestead has recently earned Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification, which provides assurances that the food they’re bringing to the marketplace has been produced to the highest possible standards. The certification is a new requirement for many major retail grocers. Upgrades to company’s facility will help maintain their preferred status with current clients while attracting new ones to stock their cheeses.
The Government of Canada is pleased to assist Holmestead Cheese to expand their manufacturing facility with a $50,000 repayable contribution through ACOA’s Business Development Program (BDP).
The expansion will include a fully wired, plumbed and insulated 30’ x 50’ foot addition to their existing warehouse, which will house dried goods and machinery, complete with an overhead door and ramp for a fork lift.
Quick Facts:
- Nick Tziolas, Co-founder of Holmestead Cheese Sales Incorporated, learned his craft in Northern Greece and has over 70 years of experience in the production and marketing of cheese products.
- In addition to making feta, Holmestead creates a variety of other specialty cheeses such as ricotta, and some parmesan. As well, the company also supplies imported Kalamata olives, X-Virgin Greek olive oils, roasted red peppers, grape vine leaves and other savoury items that marry well with Mediterranean cooking.
Quotes:
“Holmestead Cheese is a Canadian pioneer in the production of artisanal cheeses, with personal service and high-quality products having led to the company’s success to date. Our Government is pleased to support Holmestead’s expansion to better serve and grow their customer base—80% of whom are outside Atlantic Canada.”
- The Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA)
“After 30 years in business in Annapolis Valley, it’s wonderful to continue to see our company grow and to seek out new opportunities. With ACOA’s support, Holmestead Cheese is very excited to make these modernizations, and to carry on a tradition of exceeding customer expectations for quality and delivery. We thank our wonderful customers across Canada who continue to buy home grown products, and would like to recognize the NS Department of Agriculture for their ongoing assistance.”
- Susan Tziolas, Co-founder, Holmestead Cheese Sales Incorporated
Associated Links:
Contacts:
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Alex Smith
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417/902-830-3839 (cell)
alex.smith@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
