ST. HYACINTHE, Quebec – Olymel lp. and ATRAHAN Transformation Inc. have made an agreement to merge their hog slaughtering, butchering and pork processing businesses. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, and the transaction is subject regulatory approval.

The partnership will give Olymel and ATRAHAN access to additional supply volumes of pork that will help the companies meet domestic and foreign demand for pork. Both parties expect the partnership to result in profitable synergies for both companies.

 
“In a true spirit of partnership, our two companies have decided to initiate discussions in order to join forces and take advantage of all the synergies that will result from pooling our operations in the pork sector,” said Réjean Nadeau, Olymel president and CEO. “For nearly 60 years, the succession of Trahan family members who have run the company have been visionary entrepreneurs, careful to provide proper management for their business. We at Olymel are proud to be able to embark on building a partnership that will strengthen our leadership position in the Canadian agri-food industry and also enable the owners and employees of ATRAHAN Transformation Inc. to enjoy the benefits of this alliance.”

ATRAHAN is a family-owned business that has a slaughtering capacity of nearly one million pigs per year. The company exports quality products to more than 50 countries. ATRAHAN employs more than 350 employees. ATRAHAN said the company's the employees will continue operations at ATRAHAN's Yamachiche, Mauricie plant. The plant also will continue to serve its current customers and respect supply agreements with suppliers under the Hog Marketing Agreement.

“It is with great confidence that we look forward to partnering with Olymel, a pillar of the Quebec agri-food industry, a strong, diversified company with which we share values such as respect for the individual, achieving the highest standards of quality and excellence in customer service,” said Denis Trahan, president of ATRAHAN. “I am confident that, thanks to this partnership, the company in which the Trahan family has invested energy and passion for nearly 60 years will continue to grow. I also believe that our employees, suppliers and customers will be the first to benefit from the positive effects of this business partnership.”