Dandy Dan’s Seafoods and Beachside Manor are both owned and operated by Dan & Geraldine Meade of Placentia, Newfoundland & Labrador. Their businesses are the epitome of the purpose and mandate of the CFNC organisation. Dan & Geraldine started a small fish processing plant in 1991 and have been steadily growing and expanding their business to become the success it is today. In 2005 they purchased a 21 bed personal care home (Beachside Manor) which started with five residents and four employees. By 2007 the home had reached 100% occupancy. In 2011 an expansion added an additional 20 beds. There are currently 36 residents and 15 employees at the home and another expansion is planned for this year. The Meades are a proud employer in their community, contributing directly and indirectly to the local economy.

There have been many challenges over the years for the Meades, including the collapse of the cod fishery and facing the heavy restrictions and policies of the personal care home industry. In the face of these adversities the Meades did not only continue to operate, but they were able to thrive and expand. Their drive, dedication, and innovative thinking have propelled Dan and Geraldine to their success. However, they say they couldn’t have done it on their own. “I could not do this without help, including the support I received from the CBDC.  They have been a great partner and have supported me with my ventures every step of the way.“

The Meades are not ones to be satisfied with the status quo. They are diversifying their fish processing business with the addition of a value-added facility off-site that works in conjunction with the current plant.  Dandy Dan’s now has a production facility located in Argentia which they have fully equipped with state of the art secondary processing equipment to produce their new products; cod bites, cod chunks, and cod balls with infused fillings. Extensive research and experimentation has gone into the development of these new innovative products. As a follow-up to these new products, further research and development is on-going for the production of value-added meals. These vacuum sealed meals are much fresher and provide real food and ingredients when compared to other frozen competitors. This innovative product will surely become a big player in our marketplace. Because of their innovative ideas, business sense, and dedication to their community Dan & Geraldine Meade were recently honored at the CBDC NL AGM as the CBDC Business of the Year 2017.