Proudly Western Canadian!
October 26, 2020

Co-ops are built on the idea of being truly local and the promise of staying that way. We support local because we’ve always been locally owned and operated. We’re your neighbours, and are part of the economic development in our communities. 

We’re working with local suppliers to provide quality local products to our customers. Fresh fruits and vegetables, quality meats and innovative food products are right here in Western Canada.

When Siwin Foods founder Qiang Lin was looking for a space to start his business, the Food Processing Development Centre in Leduc, AB, offered a fully functional food-processing facility and support for new businesses.

Moving from China in 2005, Lin and a small team began work in the centre, where they met DeJong, who was with Alberta Agriculture. DeJong admired their company ethic and drive to succeed and joined Siwin Foods in January 2013. Siwin Foods in Edmonton specializes in dumplings. Bringing authentic Asian flavours to Western Canadians, they produce CO-OP® GOLD Potstickers in three varieties: Pork and Kimchee; Chicken and Vegetable; and Pork, Vegetable and Ginger.

"I thought that was paramount for a new company to become successful: doing the right thing for the customer, making sure that the product quality and food safety was number one for everyone that was involved in the organization," said DeJong.

Siwin Foods' priority of making high quality food from local producers available to Western Canadians means a partnership with Co-op is a natural fit. DeJong considers a partnership with Co-op a feather in Siwin's cap.

"I know that Co-op is very particular on who they choose to do their top brands, and the fact that we're making that product for Co-op—it's just an awesome feeling," said DeJong.

And no matter which potsticker you're partial to, you'll find a world of flavour in every bite.


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