A tentative deal has been reached to sell Thornloe Cheese and its recipes to a Mississauga-based cheesemaker.
Triple “A” Cheese plans to build a new more viable plant near the current location, along with a fresh food store, coffee shop or deli restaurant, party rooms and outdoor space.
“We are pleased to have found a buyer with an innovative vision for Thornloe Cheese,” said Suzanna Dalrymple, president and CEO, Gay Lea Foods. “The current Thornloe Cheese plant requires significant investment and is no longer financially viable. We believe a different concept, and a new facility, are needed for the brand to thrive in Northern Ontario – and we’re hopeful the considerable effort invested in this project – by both organizations – will deliver that outcome.”
The company plans to eventually employ more than 100 people, double the prior Thornloe Cheese employee count.
“All of us at Triple “A” Cheese are excited by the prospect of turning this beloved, local brand into a destination that serves the community and attracts tourism to Northern Ontario,” said Stefano Camaiani, president and CEO, Triple “A” Cheese. “We must caution, however, that this is an ambitious project and there are no shortcuts. A new facility is needed and comes with significant funding requirements. There remains much work to be done.”
While the sale is expected to close next year with a new plant to open in 2027 or 2028, the company is exploring the possibility of restoring limited interim cheesemaking at the current Thornloe plant, using repurposed equipment.
