Saputo to close cheese manufacturing plant

14/10/05 Saputo Inc. has announced the closure of its cheese manufacturing plant in Harrowsmith, Ontario, Canada. The plant will cease to operate on June 28, 2006, and its activities will be integrated into those of other Saputo facilities. This decision is part of the Company's continual analysis of its overall activities and the implementation of measures aimed at improving its operational efficiency.

In relation to that rationalization, the Company intends to add approximately $4.5 million in new fixed assets in other facilities. Costs connected with the closure will be approximately $1.5 million, after tax. The Company expects annual after tax savings of about $3.5 million.

Solid foundations, a commitment to excellence and dedication to growth are the keystones that have enabled Saputo Inc. to evolve as the largest dairy processor in Canada, one of the most important cheese producers in North America, the third dairy processor in Argentina and the largest snack cake manufacturer in Canada. Our products are marketed under such well-known brand names as Saputo, Armstrong, Alexis de Portneuf, Kingsey, Dairyland, Baxter, Nutrilait, Stella, Frigo, Dragone, Treasure Cave, La Paulina, Ricrem and Vachon. Saputo Inc. employs 8,500 people bringing their talents and passion to its 45 plants and its distribution centres, from one end of the Americas to the other. Saputo Inc. is a public company whose shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol SAP.

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