#Canada #Annual Meeting #Mississauga #Maple Leaf Foods #Canada Packers

Maple Leaf Foods Announces 2025 Annual Meeting Details

Maple Leaf Foods Inc., a prominent name in protein production, has officially declared the availability of its 2025 Notice of Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders and Management Information Circular. The meeting is set to unfold on June 11, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (ET) and will employ a hybrid format, allowing shareholders the flexibility to participate either virtually or in-person at ThinkFood!, located in Mississauga, Ontario. This format aims to enhance accessibility for all stakeholders involved.

In an exciting development for shareholders, the Circular contains significant insights regarding several key aspects that will be addressed during the meeting:

• - Election of Directors: Shareholders will have the opportunity to vote on the directors of Maple Leaf Foods who will guide the company's strategic vision in the forthcoming year.
• - Appointment of Auditors: The meeting will also focus on the appointment of auditors to ensure transparent financial reporting and governance.
• - Spin-Off Approval: One of the most transformative proposals is the spin-off of Maple Leaf’s pork operations through a plan of arrangement. If finalized, this will result in the creation of Canada Packers Inc., an independent publicly traded company specializing in premium pork production.
• - Approval of Options Plan: The Canada Packers Option Plan, linked to the executive compensation strategy, is set to be approved pending the completion of the spin-off transaction.

These resolutions reflect the company's ongoing commitment to creating a focused, purpose-driven organization dedicated to protein-centric products. The projected spin-off of Canada Packers Inc. signals a pivotal shift that is intended to position both companies competitively in the protein market, especially catering to the increasing demand for sustainably sourced products. As Maple Leaf Foods transitions, it envisions fostering an environment where both entities can thrive individually while continuing to meet stakeholders' evolving needs.

Environmental Responsibility and Shareholder Communication

In alignment with its commitment to sustainability, Maple Leaf Foods is implementing a “Notice and Access” approach for distributing meeting-related materials. This system encourages environmentally-friendly practices by providing shareholders with online access to the documents, significantly reducing the need for printed materials. The related resources, including the Circular and 2024 Annual Financial Statements, are available for review on the company's official website and on SEDAR+.

Shareholders are urged to engage proactively in this pivotal moment. Voting is encouraged and can be completed through proxy before the June 9, 2025, deadline at 9:00 a.m. (ET). Questions regarding the voting process and meeting details can be directed to Laurel Hill Advisory Group, Maple Leaf's proxy solicitation agent. They provide support via phone or email to ensure all shareholders can effectively participate in this fundamental decision-making process.

About Maple Leaf Foods

Operating primarily in Canada, the U.S., and Asia, Maple Leaf Foods is renowned for its commitment to quality and responsibility in protein production. With a diverse portfolio of brands, including Maple Leaf®, Maple Leaf Prime®, and Schneiders®, the company employs around 13,500 individuals and maintains its headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario. As the company takes strides towards its future, the focus remains on innovation and sustainability to cater to the ever-evolving consumer landscape.

The next chapter for Maple Leaf Foods and the prospective Canada Packers Inc. is poised to redefine market standards, promising enriched value to stakeholders while responding to global demands for nutritious and responsible food solutions. This upcoming meeting is not just a formality—it represents a strategic leap into a market characterized by change and opportunity.