The "Anxiety and Inspiration" of Running a High-Risk Meat Business during a Pandemic
A Turbulent Year for Maple Leaf Foods
It’s been a tumultuous year for everyone, and Maple Leaf Foods is no exception. In April, three employees at one of its poultry plants in Ontario tested positive for coronavirus, followed by dozens of cases among employees at other plants and at least one fatality. Its plant in Brandon, Manitoba has been connected to more than 50 cases, and workers penned an open letter that called for the plant to be shut down and cleaned while also asking for other protections such as testing and job security.
Supply Chain Disruptions and COVID-19
Meanwhile, last quarter, Maple Leaf told its investors that its sales growth in the last year is twice that of its peers, at 9.1 per cent but ‘unsatisfactory’ and blamed supply chain disruptions that have been amplified by COVID-19. This is a significant challenge for any company, let alone one in the high-risk meat business.
A Conversation with Michael McCain
This week, Michael McCain, CEO of Mississauga-based Maple Leaf Foods, one of the largest packaged meat and protein companies in the world, joins us on Down to Business. McCain, a billionaire who is known for his ability to handle crises, said 2020 has generated new levels of anxiety and inspiration.
The Future of Meat Consumption
In our conversation with McCain, he talks about the future of meat consumption. With the rise of plant-based diets and increasing concerns over animal welfare and climate change, the traditional meat industry is under pressure to adapt.
"We’re seeing a shift in consumer behavior," says McCain. "More and more people are looking for alternatives to traditional meat products. We need to be agile and responsive to this changing landscape."
Offsetting Climate Emissions
Maple Leaf Foods has made significant strides in reducing its climate emissions, with a goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050. In the last year alone, the company has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by over 10 per cent.
"We’re committed to sustainability," says McCain. "We’re investing heavily in renewable energy and reducing our waste. We need to be responsible stewards of the environment."
The Challenges of Coronavirus
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges for Maple Leaf Foods, from supply chain disruptions to employee health and safety.
"2020 has been a difficult year," says McCain. "We’ve had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. But we’re committed to our employees and customers, and we’ll get through this together."
A High-Risk Business
Running a high-risk meat business during a pandemic is a significant challenge. Meat processing plants are often hotbeds of activity, with many employees working in close proximity.
"We take the health and safety of our employees very seriously," says McCain. "We’re doing everything we can to mitigate the risk of COVID-19, from testing to social distancing."
Conclusion
In conclusion, Maple Leaf Foods is facing significant challenges during a tumultuous year for everyone. However, with its commitment to sustainability and employee health and safety, the company is well-positioned to adapt to changing circumstances.
Listen to our conversation with Michael McCain on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher and Google Play
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If you have any questions about the show or topics you want us to tackle, email us at downtobusiness@postmedia.com.
