By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — McCain Foods Inc., of Easton, was named Business of the Year during the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner, held Jan. 23 at the Presque Isle Inn & Convention Center.
“In the history of McCain Foods, it is noted that McCain Foods began exporting products to the northeastern United States in 1969, avoiding competition with the major processors located in the West,” said CACC Executive Director Theresa Fowler, who presented the award.
Fowler provided a brief history of the business, noting the New Brunswick-based company’s processing sites in Washburn and Easton.
“McCain first started operating a plant in Washburn in 1975, then purchased the plant in Easton in 1976. Planning for the future, the Easton plant received a major investment in upgrading and added a second french fry line, making jobs available for all the employees from Washburn,” she said.
The Washburn facility eventually closed, with most of the employees transferring to the Easton division.
“Expansion continued. McCain Foods continues to invest in the Easton plant, their employees and the communities surrounding their plants. Much of the McCain philanthropy is done quietly, avoiding publicity,” Fowler said.
She said a recent visit to the Easton location provided a positive glimpse at the workings of such a successful business, which has provided countless jobs to residents of area communities.
“Having toured the Easton plant, the pride of place and employment is evident in all employees. I have taken many management courses with McCain employees, whom the company believes are worth investing in. The operation of the plants in Washburn, Easton and Presque Isle through the years have benefited the communities,” she said.
Hundreds are currently employed by the Easton food processor.
“The Easton plant continues to provide employment for over 500 people and requires potatoes from 74 growers, 56 farm operations or about 22,000 acres. The operation requires 35 million pounds of potatoes each year,” Fowler said.
Fowler said McCain Foods USA Inc. was selected as Business of the Year for 2013 “because of their continued investment in the physical plant in Easton, their employees and communities in which they depend for product.”
Sen. Troy Jackson followed, reading a Legislative Sentiment — on behalf of Rep. Tyler Clark, of Easton, and himself — which was then presented to David McKenney, Easton plant manager.
Fowler said congratulation letters were also sent from Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King, as well as Congressman Mike Michaud.
Founded by two brothers, Harrison and Wallace McCain, their first plant opened in 1957 in Florenceville, N.B. Over 50 years later, McCain has become the world’s only truly global french fry producer, according to the company’s website.
McCain Foods USA entered the U.S. market more than 30 years ago and is a leading supplier of frozen potato and snack food products for the food service markets, which includes major national food chains. McCain also supplies retail grocery chains with both McCain and private-label potato products.
McCain Foods Limited is an international leader in the frozen food industry, employing over 20,000 people and operating 57 production facilities on six continents, with annual sales of over $6 billion and is the world’s largest producer of french fries and potato specialties. Products are sold in more than 130 countries around the world.
