Scotian Gold Co-operative Unveils New Pre-sort Facility

Eastern Canada's largest apple packing and storage operation opened its new pre-sort facility at a ceremony today, Dec. 19, in Coldbrook, Kings Co.

Scotian Gold Co-operative is improving its ability to grade apples thoroughly and efficiently while creating less waste by employing new technology. This will help meet the worldwide demand for its premium-quality apple products.

Agriculture Minister Brooke Taylor toured the $3.2-million facility with the Minister of State, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Keith Ashfield, Natural Resources Minister David Morse and Environment Minister Mark Parent.

"We are pleased to support this successful co-operative that makes a significant contribution to the agriculture industry in Eastern Canada," said Mr. Taylor. "The innovations and technology installed in its new Pre-sort facility will help to expand the entire apple industry in Nova Scotia."

The facility is part of a larger expansion and modernization project for which the province provided a $2-million loan through the Industrial Expansion Fund in September and a grant for $1-million through the Department of Agriculture's Strategic Infrastructure Investment Fund. Scotian Gold provides the Annapolis Valley economy with 75 jobs and a payroll of $2.2 million.

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency provided assistance of a repayable contribution for more than $600,000 through its Business Development Program to support the company's long-term strategy for innovation and increased productivity in the apple industry

"This investment will assist Scotian Gold in adopting new technologies and achieving a competitive edge," said Mr. Ashfield. "This project is a great example of the government of Canada's commitment to making strategic investments in long-term economic opportunities for the region."

In 2008, Scotian Gold Co-operative generated $23 million in gross sales, and during the last six years capacity has increased through planting premium apple varieties and higher yielding orchard systems by progressive growers in Annapolis Valley. The co-operative is also seeing the largest crop of apples ever brought though its doors.

"We are thankful for the support we have received for this expansion," said president and CEO of Scotian Gold Co-operative, David Cudmore. "The new facility is the most important investment we have made in our company's history. It is our largest single investment and will be an integral part of the infrastructure necessary to continue to move our industry forward."