Knowing Your Neighbor: Burnett Dairy Opens its Doors

DULUTH, Minn. — A farmer owned business made its way into the Northland recently. And with it being a Wisconsin business, it is no surprise that this store revolves around all things cheese.

A new business was recently welcomed into the Duluth community. With only two other locations in Wisconsin, it was a big leap for the Burnett Dairy Cooperative to set up shop in Minnesota. They are located at the base of Spirit Mountain next to the Ski Hut Adventure Center.  They opened their doors August 1st.

“So, we’re really excited to have all of our delicious cheeses come to Duluth,” said Jamie Swan, the vice president of relation operations at Burnett Dairy Cooperative.

This company is more than just a typical cheese store. The love for Duluth is felt back by Burnett Dairy. They specialize in joining forces with local companies, to express their sense of community.

“We are working with Duluth’s Best Bread; we’re working with Duluth Coffee company,” said Swan.
“We try to stay with our local vendors, it just makes it more special.”

Burnett Dairy has been around since 1896. What started off as focusing on simple cheeses like mozzarella and provolone, grew to be so much more.

“We also have excellent gouda, and Colby, cheddars…” Swan added.

Over the years, the business boomed. Across all three stores.

“We ship in a million pounds of milk a day. And we make 130,000 pounds of cheese a day,” said Swan.

Burnett Dairy doesn’t stop at just cheese. There really is something for everyone.

“Not only are we bringing our cheese to Duluth, but we’re bringing ice cream, pizza, spirits, beer, wine, all of our general merchandise,” explained Swan.

Burnett Dairy is looking forward to a future of collaboration and exploring both new and familiar tastes. All while, remembering and appreciating their roots.

“We’re just a really special company. And we’re really proud of who we are. And it all goes back to the farmers who makes us special,” said Swan.