Canadian Dairy XPO 2025 – Building trust with DLG as new show organizer

17,600 attendees - 350 exhibitors - Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness attends

Stratford, Ontario, April 22, 2025 – The Canadian Dairy XPO (CDX) reports another  successful event this year, drawing 17,600 atendees over two days to the fully booked venue in Stratford, Ontario. Now under the ownership and management of DLG, the German Agricultural Society, the 350-exhibitor strong trade show has reaffirmed its position in its 11th edition as a must-attend  event for dairy producers across Canada.

The on-site survey found that 82 percent of attendees were active quota-holding dairy producers, with 51 percent reporting more than $8 million (CAD) in operational equity, with 98 percent of all producers indicating plans to return in 2026. "We couldn't be happier with the turnout," said Jordon Underhill, President of the Canadian Dairy XPO. "Despite the weather, which could have deterred many, our producers showed up in droves to participate in CDX. It truly embodies the spirit of our community and the importance of this gathering for everyone involved in dairy production. 

“The success of the Canadian Dairy XPO would not have been possible without the support of our dedicated exhibitors and sponsors. Their commitment to showcasing cutting-edge products and services is vital to the growth and sustainability of the dairy industry," added Underhill.

Trevor Jones, Ontario’s new Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, used the CDX as a platform to engage in dialogue with producers and to learn about the latest developments in the dairy sector. He emphasized the positive impact of CDX on the entire Canadian dairy industry. 

Of the 350 exhibitors, 82 percent reported quality sales leads, and 85 percent plan to return for CDX 2026. “This level of satisfaction demonstrates strong confidence in CDX and its future,” said Ulrike Schmidt-Machinek, Managing Director of DLG markets North America. “We’re building a long-term platform here. For 2026, we aim to expand the educational program and hope to introduce a Dutch Pavilion alongside the already established German Pavilion.”

CDX also hosted another successful year of fundraising efforts for 4-H and Junior Farmers Ontario, through the Gay-Lea Milk Parlour, Mueller Ice Cream Bar,  JR Farmer’s Apple Fritter Booth and VIP Parking.

A key highlight of the show was the new Hoof Trimming Corral with 51 percent of attendees exploring the latest in hoof trimming technology, with live demonstrations of 8 chutes. This feature will include more hoof trim chutes in 2026.

The German Pavilion in the Innovation Hall, jointly organized by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture of Germany, DLG, and IEC proved once again to be a highlight and focal point for innovation.

A major highlight of CDX 2025 was the “Calves for a Cause” charity auction. A total of 40 elite genetics calves were sold during the live and online event, with participation from over 800 producers. The auction generated CAD 370,805 – a 14 percent increase over the previous year – plus an additional CAD 35,500 raised for charity. All proceeds go directly to the Children’s Health Foundation at the London Hospital in Ontario. The event, which follows the CheeseFEST on the first night of the XPO, has become a beloved tradition for the dairy community.

CDX also continued its support for youth development through fundraising activities for 4-H and Junior Farmers Ontario, supported by the Gay-Lea Milk Parlour, Mueller Ice Cream Bar, JR Farmer’s Apple Fritter Booth, and VIP Parking.

The 12th edition of CDX will take place on April 1-2, 2026 at the Rotary Complex in Stratford, Ontario.

About the Canadian Dairy XPO

CDX was incepted in 2013 and is located in Stratford, Ontario, the heart of Canada’s dairy production. DLG (German Agricultural Society) acquired CDX from North American trade fair organizer Underhill Enterprise Inc., in June 2024 and established its subsidiary DLG Markets North America in Elora, Ontario. The new organization is dedicated to providing farming professionals with information about relevant technical solutions and best-practice knowledge, supporting informed investment decisions.

DLG Markets North America has launched the new trade fair, American Dairy XPO, set to take place on November 5–6, 2025, in Vermont, USA.

Media contact DLG:

Malene Conlong
Phone: +49 6924788237
Email: M.conlong@dlg.org

Kate Mehlenbacher
Operations Manager CDX/ ADX
Phone: +1 519 265 8300 ext. 205
Admin@Dairyxpo.ca