The Order of Merit was founded by King Olav V in 1985 and is conferred on foreign and Norwegian nationals as a reward for their outstanding service in the interest of Norway.
Mr. Wagner, former president of Norseland Inc. Canada, receives the Order for his longstanding commitment to importing and promoting Norwegian cheeses to Canada, and thus strengthening Norway’s presence and interests. Particularly the Jarlsberg cheese has become a household name and staple in many Canadian homes thanks to Mr. Wagner’s continued efforts. Today, Jarlsberg is available in all ten provinces and each of the three territories, and is not only the arguably most well-known imported cheese, it is likely the best known Norwegian consumer product in Canada.
Joining in the celebration were some of Mr. Wagner’s closest business partners and colleagues from Canada, Norway and the USA. Unni Sjøflot, Area Sales Director for TINE Norway, thanked Mr Wagner for his commitment to Tine and Norwegian dairy farmers for the past 34 years. Wagner retired from his position in 2017.
We congratulate Mr. Wagner!