Maple Leaf Foods Inc. announced that its shareholders voted resoundingly to approve the proposed spin-off of the company's pork operations to form Canada Packers Inc., and also re-elected all of the directors to the Maple Leaf Foods Board of Directors at its 2025 annual and special meeting of shareholders. 

"The overwhelming endorsement of our shareholders for the spin-off of our pork operations marks an important milestone in one of the most transformational transactions in the company's history," stated Curtis Frank, president and CEO of Maple Leaf Foods. "By creating two companies, each with its own robust business model, focused strategy, distinct investment profile, and compelling growth potential, Maple Leaf Foods is ready to unlock its potential as a purpose-driven, protein-focused, branded consumer packaged goods company. I thank our shareholders for supporting our bold vision for the future."

"This is a historic day in Canada Packers' progress toward becoming an independent, public company," said Dennis Organ, incoming president and CEO of Canada Packers. "With the confidence of the shareholders, we are excited to take our next steps as a global leader in sustainably produced, premium quality, value-added pork with diversified sales mix and global reach."

The vote on the transaction was approved with 99.94% of votes cast by all shareholders.  The transaction is expected to be completed in the second half of 2025 pending receipt of an advance tax ruling and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

In addition to approving the spin-off transaction, shareholders voted to re-elect all of the incumbent directors to serve on Maple Leaf Foods' Board of Directors for the coming year. 

About Maple Leaf Foods
Maple Leaf Foods is a leading protein company responsibly producing food products under leading brands including Maple Leaf, Maple Leaf Prime, Maple Leaf Natural Selections, Schneiders, Mina, Greenfield Natural Meat Co., LightLife and Field Roast. The Company employs approximately 13,500 people and does business primarily in Canada, the U.S. and Asia. The Company is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario and its shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MFI).