We are pleased to welcome you to SunOpta Inc. Since our initial entry into the natural, organic and specialty foods business in 1999, SunOpta has evolved to become one of the largest players in this category in North America, and in fact, in the world. With the combination of fast growing markets, vertically integrated business models supported by solid financial and operating assets and a team of dedicated personnel, SunOpta is positioned for an exciting future.
Numerous consumer trends are driving rapid expansion in a number of the healthy living categories in which we participate. These trends include:
Organic Foods – Historical growth rates of 15-20%;
Fiber – Important for gastrointestinal health - prevention of obesity;
Whole Grains – Focus on nutrient-rich foods and ingredients;
Soy – Healthy products with approved claims;
Fruits and Vegetables – Increased consumption recommended;
Natural Health Products – Consumer awareness of health benefits;
Safe and Sustainable Foods – Consumers focused on environmental and social impacts of foods consumed;
Private Label Foods – Increasing retailer / consumer interest.
It is around these key healthy living categories that our food business is focused.
Concentrating on categories with growth rates far above those of basic commodity foods, SunOpta has grown from revenues of US $194,000 in 1994 to 2009’s revenue of US $989 million and has become one of the largest suppliers in the natural and organic foods and natural health products markets with facilities in Europe, North America and Asia. SunOpta exports its products to approximately 55 countries and sources ingredients from approximately 60 countries.
We manage our business with strongly held values and aim to position ourselves as a major participant in each of the natural and organic foods sectors where we operate. We maintain high quality and certification standards by being involved from sale of seed, sourcing of raw materials, processing, packaging and finally to distribution.
We are deeply concerned over environmental issues and are committed to reduce our footprint on the earth through reduction of energy, water and waste throughout SunOpta.
As shareholders you have the dedication and support of our valued customers, suppliers, business associates and over 2,300 employees throughout the world.
We also own majority positions in two non food businesses. Opta Minerals Inc. (TSX:OPM) (66.4% ownership) a producer, distributor, and recycler of environmentally friendly industrial minerals.
SunOpta BioProcess Inc. which engineers and markets proprietary steam explosion technology systems for the bio-fuel, pulp and food processing industries. Each of these business units has proprietary products and services that give it a solid competitive advantage in its sector.
Welcome to the world of SunOpta.
Jeremy N. Kendall
Chairman
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