Ferme des Voltigeurs: A Tradition of Excellence and Innovation

A Precious Family Heritage

It all began with Dominique Martel’s mother, who sold chickens at the local market on Fridays and Saturdays. “She would go to sell about fifteen chickens, maple syrup, and vegetables,” Dominique tells us. Those simple yet precious moments laid the groundwork for what would become Ferme des Voltigeurs. Dominique adds that his father also had a dream: to raise poultry and make a living from agriculture. 

“Throughout my childhood, we were farmers, processors, and market gardeners,” says Mr. Martel. Today, the company employs more than 250 people across its different divisions—from farming and distribution to processing. The three brothers who own the business, along with their sister, followed in their parents’ footsteps, combining their strengths and passion to grow Ferme des Voltigeurs into a thriving and prosperous company. 

More Than Chicken - A Philosophy

At Ferme des Voltigeurs, every detail matters. “Our chickens are fed exclusively plant-based grains, with no animal by-products, ensuring a healthy, balanced diet,” explains Mr. Martel. The choice of a specific feed, combined with optimal farming conditions, produces a chicken that is leaner, with firm, flavorful meat—one that stays beautifully plump after cooking. 

The chickens are raised in larger spaces than the industry average, supporting their well-being and the quality of their meat. In addition, the company uses air-chilling methods, preserving freshness and authentic flavor while preventing the chicken from being waterlogged. 

This attention to every step of the process—from feeding during the raising period to processing—reflects Ferme des Voltigeurs’ commitment to excellence, ensuring consumers receive a superior-quality product they can trust.

Feed quality is a top priority at Ferme des Voltigeurs. “We work with certified Quebec feed mills to source soy, corn, and other essential ingredients, ensuring a quality diet—whether conventional or organic,” says Mr. Martel. 

A Unique Brand, a Strong Reputation

When Mr. Martel talks about what makes the Ferme des Voltigeurs brand unique, he speaks enthusiastically about the values and practices that set the company apart in the market. He emphasizes the farm’s commitment to producing exceptionally high-quality chicken—an approach reflected in several specific practices. 

First, Ferme des Voltigeurs chickens benefit from a longer growing period, allowing them to develop at a natural pace and produce tastier meat. 

These practices are echoed in positive customer feedback. As Dominique Martel notes, “We regularly receive glowing testimonials—some customers even tell us our chicken reminds them of the one from their youth.” For him, those comments confirm the positive impact of their quality-focused approach on customer satisfaction. 

Which Products Stand Out Most With Consumers?

“Our fresh poultry products are undeniably our best sellers,” says Dominique Martel. Whole chicken, boneless chicken breasts, and boneless skinless thigh pieces are the stars of the lineup. Beyond fresh poultry, Ferme des Voltigeurs has also won over taste buds with an original creation: a chicken-based pasta sauce. 

“This product is growing in popularity, and we’re convinced that with greater production capacity, its success would be even more spectacular,” he shares, highlighting the market trend toward prepared foods. 

Adapting to Trends: An Exciting Challenge

Ferme des Voltigeurs is a company that has adapted to market trends and innovated to meet consumer expectations. “People are increasingly looking for ready-to-eat products, and we’re actively thinking about how to respond to this demand across Quebec,” Dominique explains. 

Broad, Varied Distribution to Win Over Consumers

Ferme des Voltigeurs is proud to see its products available at many points of sale across Quebec, New Brunswick, and Ontario. “Our plant-grain-fed and organic poultry products are available at IGA and Metro—co-branded under their private labels Naturalia and Mieux-être—as well as in specialty grocery stores like Rachelle-Béry, Avril, and Marché Tau,” explains Dominique Martel. 

This distribution reflects the market’s confidence in the brand and recognition of the quality of their products. 

In addition to major retailers, Ferme des Voltigeurs also works with specialized butcher shops and sells directly to consumers through its three boutiques and its kiosk at the public market. It’s even possible to purchase several ready-to-serve products, including their famous chicken pasta sauce. Looking ahead, Ferme des Voltigeurs hopes to continue expanding its presence throughout Quebec.

Investments to Better Serve Customers

Aware of the challenges and opportunities, Ferme des Voltigeurs invested in automation and expanded its plant in 2022. “We increased our production capacity by 40%—a giant step for our company,” he shares. Building on its heritage and values, Ferme des Voltigeurs continues to innovate and adapt to tomorrow’s challenges, charting a path of excellence while remaining true to its commitment to consumers. 

Their passion for what they do keeps growing, with a promising new generation of the family on the horizon. A vibrant story that sounds like a promise for the future: to offer Quebecers the pleasure of eating well and eating healthy.