What is the Filière porcine coopérative?

The Filière porcine coopérative is a business model that combines the power of integrated production and entrepreneurial values of independent Québec swine producers.

The network still maintains the same objectives that it had set for itself when it was founded over 10 years ago: to be a hub for the production of high-quality pork at a competitive price, to distribute it around the world, and to generate wealth for member producers.

Since 2011, more than $130 million has been paid out to members in patronage refunds, dividends, bonuses, etc.

“Pork production represents 60 % of our feed volume,” says Sollio Agriculture CEO Casper Kaastra. “And feed alone accounts more than 70 % of the variable costs of producing a hog, which is why our research focuses on improving our feed programs and farms’ performance. Working as a network has never been more relevant.”

A group of independent producers

With the Cooperative Pork Network, swine producers can demonstrate leadership, while benefiting from other farmers’ expertise, Sollio Agriculture’s management advice, AlphaGene’s genetics, and Olymel’s merchandising. The network also offers cooperative farrowing farms that supply members of the network with healthy piglets, an economical and sustainable approach.

Wealth generation

Since the launch of the La Coop certified pork program, Sollio Agriculture’s feed program and expert management advice from its agri-advisors have helped ensure the sustainability of pork production in Québec.

Market-adapted offer

The quality of La Coop certified pork is one of the highest in the world. It supports the growth and reputation of Québec pork producers around the world, including value-added markets such as Japan.

From breeding to merchandising, the Filière porcine coopérative also offers the flexibility needed to respond quickly to changing industry conditions.

Exclusivities

The Filière porcine coopérative works in an exclusive way with its members, for its members.

Whether it’s by sending economic newsletters twice every month or simplifying shipping with more flexible weight charts, the Network aims to improve the profitability of the production chain for all stakeholders.

Fermes boréales: a Network success story

Owned by five independent producers, five cooperatives, and Olymel, Fermes boréales delivers over 300,000 high health status piglets each year to cooperative producers’ farms throughout Québec every week. The Fermes Boréales project is an excellent example of social acceptability and the power of cooperation.