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Michigan Cheese and Dairy Guild Initiated with Assistance from MDARD Program
October 14, 2025
The guild first came to fruition in May of 2023 after a group of artisan cheese makers and sellers were encouraged by MDARD’s International Marketing Program team members to form a non-profit organization. Doing so created opportunities for them to attend trade shows such as the National Restaurant Association Show and promote Michigan-made cheese. After attending the show, the guild gained more attention and decided to open their membership up to anyone that is interested in being a part of their community.
“Michigan's artisan cheese and dairy production community is a close-knit group. The Cheese & Dairy Guild has been invaluable in helping us coordinate communications and efforts, allowing businesses to share vital information on facilities, food safety, and operational insights specific to the raw milk processing industry,” said Arend Elston, Owner/Operator of Sanilac Creamery. “We are eager to collaborate and partner with local cheese retailers to further cultivate the artisan dairy culture here in Michigan.”
Today the guild has over 20 business members that work as part of a beneficial collaboration to make the artisan dairy industry stronger throughout Michigan. The guild benefits members through customized knowledge about industry factors such as food safety, business operations, sales, and marketing. Members of the guild can access this knowledge through office hours that are established to regularly discuss topics that are unique to the cheese and dairy industry.
As a group and as individual businesses, the guild has continued to attend food and trade shows, even increasing their attendance to include the Making it in Michigan, Carmela Foods and Michigan Food and Hospitality shows. They work as a group to help promote each other’s businesses and unique products at trade shows, attending together to reduce costs and increase their ability to participate.
In addition to attending these trade shows, the artisan cheesemakers in Michigan have gained traction through retailers and logistics partners that are members of the guild including Carmela Foods and Monger’s Provisions. This has allowed guild members to expand the reach of their product through branded coolers and virtual tasting events.
The Cheese and Dairy Guild welcomes members from around Michigan, even those not involved in the dairy and food industry. If you love Michigan-made artisan cheese, then the guild is happy to have you!
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