World-renowned swine genetics company Topigs Norsvin held a grand opening last Wednesday for its new state-of-the-art research centre located in the R.M. of Woodlands, northwest of Winnipeg.

Close to 1,000 people attended the event.

Topigs Norsvin International CEO Martin Bijl explained why the Dutch company chose Manitoba for this $15 million investment.

"The health status of the animals is of great importance, so to keep them healthy and Manitoba has the right infrastructure and low disease pressure for pigs," he said. "It's not only a question of making genetic progress with pigs, but also we would like to disseminate the genetic progress through semen and animals worldwide."

Martin Bijl, CEO Topigs Norsvin Intl

The location is isolated from other pig production and yet it is still close to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, which makes it possible to export high-health boars and semen with the highest genetic value to the company's customers.

The centre, known as Delta Canada, houses 2,600 pigs and will test 7,500 young nucleus boars every year. The facility is equipped with a CT scanner to help improve carcass composition, robustness, and meat quality faster and with greater accuracy.

“Delta Canada will substantially increase the genetic progress in our Z-line and TN Tempo. It is part of Topigs Norsvin’s long-term breeding strategy and will substantially contribute to our target of doubling genetic progress in the coming period.” said Hans Olijslagers, chief technology officer of Topigs Norsvin.

Manitoba Pork Chair George Matheson, who attended the event, explained what the facility will mean for Manitoba.

"The previous government wasn't overly friendly to the pork industry. This government is and now we've got companies showing interest and settling in Manitoba. Topigs Norsvin is one of the most renowned genetics companies in the world. It's a wonderful thing, it can only mean good things for the industry and for the province and for this municipality."

The facility will make it easier and faster to supply customers around the world with the latest top genetics. The first boars will leave the center at end of this year.

 

Aerial view of the facility - photo supplied