TORONTO, Dec. 7, 2012 /CNW/ - Canada Beef Inc. welcomed the announcement today from the Government of Canada regarding three new programs under Growing Forward 2 (GF2). These programs allow Canada Beef Inc. to work innovatively on behalf of Canada's 83,000 beef farming families in ensuring Canadian beef is recognized around the world as a safe, wholesome, and premium product.

"Canada Beef has two main drivers on behalf of Canadian beef producers; delivering a strong return on investment, and creating sustained brand loyalty to Canadian beef with end-users and consumers around the globe," said Canada Beef Inc. President Rob Meijer. "GF2 will be instrumental in Canada Beef's ability to deliver more innovative and strategic marketing and brand initiatives."

"GF2 specifically aligns with Canada Beef's three-year strategic priorities; to brand differentiate, target priority markets of value, and venture into new emerging market possibilities."

Meijer expressed his appreciation of the Government of Canada's continuous funding for agricultural growth and innovation.  "Investment in agriculture is an investment in Canada's future and its rural communities and youth.  Canadian beef production alone contributes over 25 billion* dollars annually to Canada's economy."

*Beef production in Canada contributed 25.96 billion to Canada's economy in 2011, up 5.5 per cent since 2010.  Source: Canfax, Statistics Canada 2011

SOURCE Canada Beef Inc.