This report by Food Processing Skills Canada offers an overview of the dairy processing industry in Canada, emphasizing its importance to the national economy and its strong presence in key provinces like Quebec and Ontario. It explores the structure of the workforce, common roles and career paths, and the growing need for skilled workers. The report also discusses challenges in recruitment and retention, the impact of automation and technological change, and the importance of education and training. Overall, it provides insight into the industry’s current state and future workforce needs.
Dairy Processing is a very important part of the Canadian economy, being the third largest food processing industry in Canada and the largest in Quebec.
In 2020, import-export dynamics in the Dairy Processing Industry were valued at approximately $1.4 billion, with a negative trade balance of $471 million as imported products represented $486 million while exported products were valued at $957 million.
Post 2020 until 2024, the outlook for the dairy industry labour market tightness will be lower compared to all other industries, but labour market tightness will return in 2028 with recruitment challenges predominantly expected to rise for occupations and roles related to management, logistics, drivers, and some technician positions.
