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Why efficiency is becoming important
Ipublished by John Murphy. All material in Food & Beverage Industry News is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.
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n the Australian food and beverage manufacturing sector, plant efficiency and automation are becoming increasingly essential in the face of rising costs and global competition. With margins tightening and consumer demands evolving, manufacturers are turning to automation and process optimisation as key strategies to maintain profitability and ensure sustainability.
Plant efficiency refers to the ability to maximise output while minimising costs. For food and beverage manufacturers, this involves improving resource utilisation, energy, materials, and labour, across the production process.
Streamlining operations to eliminate waste, reduce downtime, and ensure consistent quality is central to achieving efficiency.
In practice, this often involves the adoption of lean manufacturing principles, regular equipment maintenance, and the implementation of energy-saving technologies.
Reducing energy consumption is particularly important in food manufacturing, where energy costs are a significant portion of overall operational expenses. Manufacturers have increasingly been investing in energy-efficient technologies to cut costs and lower their environmental footprint.
Additionally, ensuring consistent product quality remains a top priority, as it not only improves brand reputation but also reduces the risk of product recalls, which can be costly and damaging to consumer trust.
Automation plays a crucial role in improving plant efficiency. By incorporating automated systems, manufacturers can achieve faster production rates, greater consistency, and reduced labour costs. Automated machinery operates at a speed and precision that human workers cannot match, enabling continuous production without the risk of human error or fatigue.
Beyond speed, automation provides manufacturers with greater control over production variables, such as
mixing times, temperature, and ingredient ratios.
This level of precision ensures that products meet quality standards consistently, without variation from batch to batch.
On top of this, automation allows for real-time data collection and analysis, enabling manufacturers to monitor key performance indicators and adjust optimise production. By identifying inefficiencies in real-time, businesses can reduce waste and downtime, further improving productivity.
The push for efficiency and automation is not just a matter of technological advancement; it’s also a response to broader industry pressures. Increasing competition, labour shortages, and shifting consumer expectations are pushing Australian food and beverage manufacturers to find new ways to maintain their market positions.
Automation not only helps manage labour costs, but it also addresses workforce challenges, allowing businesses to maintain operations even when faced with limited labour availability.
However, the integration of automation comes with challenges. The up front cost of installing new technology can be substantial, and there are ongoing concerns regarding the impact of automation on employment. Despite these concerns, evidence suggests that automation does not necessarily lead to widespread job losses.
Instead, it shifts the focus of human labour to more complex and higher-value tasks, while automated systems handle repetitive or dangerous activities.
The successful adoption of these strategies will depend on the ability to balance cost, efficiency, and workforce dynamics.
As the industry continues to evolve, those who fail to embrace technological advancements may struggle to keep up with the demands of both consumers and the broader market.
Until next time, happy reading.
14 MEET THE MANUFACTURER
Honest to Goodness’ journey from a humble market stall to a nationally recognised brand manufacturers.
18 CONSTRUCTION
Total Construction has partnered with Stacked Farm to deliver an Australian first vertical farm.
20 AUTOMATION
Treotham Automation has firmly positioned itself as a key player in Australia’s food and beverage manufacturing sector.
22 FOODTECH QLD
With FoodTech just months away, learn about some exhibitors.
24 ACCC
The ACCC has released the findings from its supermarket inquiry.
26 FOOD SECURITY
The National Farmers’ Federation has detailed key points of focus that can increase food security and strengthen supply chains.
28 AUSTRALIAN FOOD AND GROCERY COUNCIL
The AFGC has highlighted ways to strengthen the sector.
30 RECYCLING SCHEME
Queensland’s Containers for Change scheme highlights the value of investing in and promoting recycling and waste reduction
32 MEASUREMENT LEGISLATION
The Australian Government is reforming the country’s measurement legislation.
34 PARLIAMENT INQUIRY
Distillers, brewers, and winemakers have thrown support behind industry reforms.
36 AGRICULTURE TRIAL
A government-backed trial on the benefits of pelletised compost.
38 DAIRY MARKET
The global dairy market is experiencing changing conditions
40 GRAIN EXPORT
Australian grain and oilseed growers are being encouraged to capitalise on the growing consumer base in Asia.
42 AGRICULTURE TARIFFS
The Unites States’ trade surplus with Australia has so far helped sustain Australian food and agriculture exports
44 PACKAGING
Winemakers will undergo a feasibility study to uncover the best alternative packaging options..
48 AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF PACKAGING
Early registrations open for Australasian Packaging Conference.
50 NEW PRODUCTS
Suntory Oceania has announced Dai Minato as CEO of Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania, effective from April 2025.
A highly respected leader in the global beverage industry, Minato has been a key architect in shaping Suntory’s global business across the Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific and U.S. markets. Minato will join Mark Hill, managing director – Suntory Global Spirits Oceania, in leading the $3 billion multi-beverage business as it prepares to go-live in mid-2025 and enters a new era of growth in Australia and New Zealand.
Most recently, he led the strategic agenda and expansion of the business outside of Japan as chief strategy and finance officer at Suntory Beverage &
Suntory Oceania announces new CEO ACCC releases guidance on merger reform transition
The ACCC has released guidance on transitional arrangements to assist businesses and their advisers considering a merger in 2025, ahead of Australia’s new merger regime coming into effect.
Under the new regime, all acquisitions that meet a prescribed threshold must be notified to the ACCC from 1 January 2026.
Businesses, advisers, consumers and other interested members of the community can now subscribe for updates on merger reform on the ACCC website.
Food International.
“Dai’s appointment marks the next era for Suntory in Oceania as he leads the company’s bold growth plans in Oceania. I have every confidence he will empower the team to ignite the local market and achieve our enormous growth potential,” said Jahanzeb Khan, CEO of Suntory Beverage & Food Asia Pacific.
In preparation, Suntory Oceania has announced a national recruitment drive for 80 new roles in its dynamic Licensed Route-to-Market team. The new Territory Manager positions will be based in NSW, VIC, QLD, SA and WA and will play an important part in representing the premium alcohol portfolio. F
mergers and acquisitions will be a major change for businesses and the ACCC. Supporting businesses and other stakeholders by providing clarity on key dates and processes is crucial to a successful transition,” said ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb.
The new law contains provisions to assist businesses to transition to the new regime which include the option for
on a voluntary basis from 1 July 2025.
The guidance indicates how the ACCC intends to assist businesses navigate this period, taking into account questions we have received about the transition.
In particular, the ACCC has sought to clarify how businesses can engage with the ACCC on their mergers throughout 2025 , and what might
These include whether informal clearances received during 2025 will mean those acquisitions are exempt from the obligation to notify from 1 January.
“A key message is that if businesses are considering seeking an informal merger review after 1 July 2025, it is important they engage with us as soon as possible,” said Cass-Gottlieb.
“This will help manage the risk that there won’t be enough time for the ACCC to complete its assessment before the new mandatory merger review process comes into effect.”
The ACCC will continue to work with businesses to navigate the transition to the new regime and the guidance may be progressively updated to ensure it addresses new questions that emerge.
“We are committed to ensure the transition to the new mandatory regime is transparent and smooth,” Ms CassGottlieb said.
Businesses, advisers, consumers and other interested members of the community can now subscribe for updates on merger reform on the ACCC website.
Currently Australia’s merger regime does not require merger parties to notify the ACCC of proposed acquisitions or to wait for ACCC clearance before proceeding with the acquisition.
Dai Minato (left) will start his role as CEO of Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania from this month.
Pure Dairy appoints two new general managers
Pure Dairy has announced the appointment of Lee Shipley as general manager of Wholesale/ Retail Sales and Tim Bonaguro as general manager of Corporate Sales.
These key leadership appointments signal Pure Dairy’s commitment to expanding its market presence and enhancing customer partnerships across the foodservice and retail sectors.
The appointments come at a pivotal time for the company, with Pure Dairy set to open its state-of-the-art dairy manufacturing and processing facility in Dandenong South in 2025. The facility will play a crucial role in supporting the company’s growth strategy, enabling increased local production capacity and supply chain efficiency while providing greater flexibility in product innovation for foodservice, retail, and corporate clients.
Bringing decades of experience in sales strategy and market expansion,
Lee Shipley will lead the Wholesale/ Retail Sales division, driving growth and strengthening relationships with national retailers, distributors, and independent operators. His expertise in retail and wholesale strategy is expected to propel Pure Dairy’s footprint in the competitive Australian market.
Tim Bonaguro, stepping into the role of GM of Corporate Sales, brings a strong background in corporate account management and business development. He will focus on expanding partnerships with food manufacturers, quick-service restaurants (QSRs), and major corporate clients, ensuring Pure Dairy remains a trusted supplier for large-scale dairy solutions.
With these strategic appointments and infrastructure developments, Pure Dairy is poised to deliver even greater value to the Australian and global markets, reinforcing its reputation for quality, innovation, and reliability.
Tim Bonaguro, stepping into the role of GM of Corporate Sales, brings a strong background in corporate account management and business development.
Australian Meat Industry Council announces new CEO
The Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) has announced the appointment of Tim Ryan as its new chief executive officer (CEO).
Ryan joined AMIC in 2022 and has played a pivotal role in advocating on behalf of members. With an extensive background in the red meat industry, he has been instrumental in addressing some of the most critical issues facing the meat industry across all sectors, including changes to animal welfare standards, advocating for retail member interests in competition inquiries, and pushing back on scope creep
of dietary guidelines.
“On behalf of the board, we are proud to appoint Tim as CEO of AMIC. He brings a deep understanding of our industry and a clear vision for its future,” said AMIC chair, Tom Maguire.
Ryan’s appointment follows an extensive recruitment process to identify a leader who can steer AMIC through an evolving regulatory landscape, changing consumer expectations, technological advancements, and environmental considerations.
“I am honoured to take on the role of CEO at AMIC and build on the organisation’s strong foundations. The
Australian meat industry is globally recognised for its quality, integrity and innovation, and I look forward to working closely with all our members, stakeholders and government partners to drive sustainable growth and ensure a thriving future for our industry,” said Ryan.
With AMIC representing meat processors, retailers, small goods manufacturers, wholesalers, and exporters, Tim will focus on enhancing collaboration, strengthening advocacy efforts, and delivering critical services that support members’ longterm success. F
Entyce Food Ingredients acquires Australian manufacturer
Entyce Food Ingredients has announced its acquisition of Naked Rivals, a pioneering Australian brand renowned for its innovative and sustainable citrus juice products sold through all national supermarket channels.
Established in 2023 by founders Andrew and Kate Gordon, Naked Rivals has revolutionised the way consumers enjoy citrus juice. The brand offers 100 per cent freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice cubes, free from pips, peel, and preservatives, providing a convenient and waste-free alternative to traditional citrus products.
Each cube contains the juice equivalent of half a lemon (22ml) or half a lime (15ml), ensuring consistent flavour and quality every time. Naked Rivals is committed to sustainability, sourcing ‘ugly’ lemons and limes—fruits that might otherwise go to waste due to cosmetic imperfections—from Australian farms.
The products are proudly made in Victoria, with packaging designed to be recyclable, aligning with the brand’s mission to combat food waste and promote environmental responsibility.
What This Means For You: Continued Product Excellence:
Vescio, managing director of Entyce Food Ingredients, said
will remain available, maintaining the high standards of quality, taste, and sustainability you’ve come to expect.
and expertise, we plan to expand the Naked Rivals product line, introducing new and exciting fruit, vegetable and savoury stock-based offerings to meet diverse consumer demands for healthier, natural food options.
We will uphold Naked Rivals’ dedication to sustainability, ensuring that our practices continue to support Australian farmers and reduce food waste.
said Gino Vescio, managing director of Entyce Food Ingredients.
“This acquisition aligns with our vision of delivering premium, sustainable food solutions to our multinational customers. We look forward to building on Naked Rivals’ success and exploring new opportunities for innovation in the frozen fruit and vegetable juices and savoury stock
wholly owned Australian food importer,
domestic and international franchise chains and delivery platforms, serving a diverse range of industries with innovative and premium food products. With a strong commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Entyce continues to set new benchmarks in the Australian & New Zealand food industry. F
Tim Ryan’s appointment follows an extensive recruitment process to identify a leader who can steer AMIC through an evolving regulatory landscape.
Gino
he was excited to welcome Naked Rivals to the portfolio.
The Destination For Food Innovation
Fonterra announces changes to management team
Fonterra has announced changes to its management team as a next step in implementing its ongoing strategy.
Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell says as the Co-operative moves to divest its Consumer and associated businesses, now is the time to make changes to management team roles responsible for driving end-to-end value through Fonterra’s global Foodservice and Ingredients businesses.
Richard Allen will lead Fonterra’s global Ingredients business as president, Global Ingredients, with his remit expanding to include the Co-op’s Ingredients businesses in Greater China and Middle East Africa.
Most recently, Richard has led Fonterra’s Ingredients business across markets including North America, North Asia, Asia Pacific and Europe.
Teh-han Chow will lead Fonterra’s global Foodservice business as president, Global Foodservice with his remit expanding to include the Co-op’s Foodservice businesses in South East Asia, Middle East Africa and other markets. In addition to this, Teh-han will continue as the CEO for Greater China.
“This is an exciting time for the Co-op as we shift to the front foot and
Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell says as the Co-operative moves to divest its Consumer and associated businesses, now is the time to make changes to management team.
our high-performing Foodservice and Ingredients businesses. Enabling our teams to have a clear end-to-end view of our channels will strengthen their ability and focus to deliver end-to-end value to our farmer shareholders,” said Hurrell.
extensive knowledge across these channels, and I know they are well placed to lead these teams to help the Co-op deliver our strategic goals.”
With the Southeast Asia and Middle East Africa Foodservice teams
Dedoncker’s title will change from managing director Global Markets Consumer and Foodservice to managing director Global Markets Consumer as he leads those businesses in scope for divestment. F
Prinova appoints new President and CEO
Prinova, a wholly owned subsidiary of the NAGASE Group, has announced the appointment of Richard McEvoy as its new president and CEO, effective April 1, 2025.
McEvoy officially joined Prinova on March 10, 2025, to begin an onboarding and handover process with Don Thorp, the current President and CEO, who will retire following a successful 42-year tenure leading the business.
McEvoy is a dynamic business leader with an excellent track record of driving transformational business growth across multiple leading life sciences companies. His career includes leadership roles at Unilever, JohnsonDiversey, Vantage Specialty Chemicals, and most recently, serving as CEO of Voyant Beauty.
McEvoy’s global perspective, deep
expertise, passion for people and culture, and ability to convert opportunities into results position him well to lead Prinova into its next chapter of global expansion.
“We are thrilled to welcome Richard to Prinova,” said Rob Elias, CFO.
“His strategic mindset, operational expertise and depth of experience will help us to drive innovation across the company’s product and service portfolio.”
“Richard is a results-driven leader who has a diverse background of experiences and an excellent track record of driving business growth in developed and developing markets,” said Masaya Ikemoto, Representative Director and Senior Managing Executive Officer at the NAGASE Group.
“We have a long-term vision for
global growth and Richard shares our passion for innovation, operational excellence, and meeting the needs of our
“Under his leadership, Prinova will further unlock its growth potential and strengthen its position as a leader in the ingredients and premixes industry. We also thank Don Thorp for his leadership of Prinova over the past 42 years. His vision, commitment, and dedication to the business has set a strong foundation for Prinova’s future success.”
“I’m excited to join Prinova at such a pivotal time,” said McEvoy. “The company has built a strong reputation for its commitment to excellence and innovation. I look forward to working with the talented team at Prinova and Nagase to build upon on this success, seize new opportunities, and deliver exceptional value for our customers and stakeholders.” F
Image: Prinova
Richard McEvoy joined Prinova in March to begin an onboarding and handover process with the current president and CEO.
The CSIRO has announced the appointment of a new Board Chair after Kathryn Fagg AO stepped down due to personal reasons.
One of Australia’s most experienced company directors, Fagg was first appointed to the CSIRO Board in 2018 and was appointed Chair in late 2021. CSIRO thanks Ms Fagg for her leadership and contribution to the organisation over the last seven years.
The Minister has announced Ming Long AM will be the next Chair of the CSIRO Board.
“I am honoured to be appointed Chair and acknowledge Kathryn Fagg’s significant leadership and legacy in positioning CSIRO for the future,” said Long.
“I look forward to supporting CSIRO’s independent science and research excellence, in collaborating and transforming national challenges and
New CSIRO Board Chair named Coopers Foundation announces Board changes
Coopers Brewery chief financial officer Brad Grunert has been appointed to the Board of the Coopers Foundation.
Grunert, who commenced at Coopers in 2015, will take on the staff representative position of the Brewery’s charitable arm. A Chartered Accountant and member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Grunert spent 16 years working at KPMG in both Australia and the United Kingdom prior to joining Coopers. In addition to his role as CFO and Company Secretary of the Brewery, he also currently chairs the Foundation’s Investment Committee.
Coopers Foundation chair, Melanie Cooper, said Grunert was a highly engaged leader who brings significant knowledge to the Foundation.
“We are thrilled to welcome Brad to the Coopers Foundation Board,” she said.
“Since Brad joined Coopers he has been a strong advocate for the Foundation. “His skills and understanding of the Foundation will be invaluable as we continue to grow and
priorities into opportunities for Australia.”
Long has served as Deputy Chair since May 2024 and has extensive governance experience across financial
services, real estate, infrastructure and telecommunications.
Vanessa Sullivan has also been appointed to the CSIRO Board. Ms
Sullivan has 20 years of experience in the energy, water and sustainability sectors, with recent work in hydrogen industry development.
The appointments were announced by the Minister for Industry and Science, The Hon Ed Husic MP.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Kathryn Fagg. CSIRO has benefitted from having such a pioneering woman in STEM at the helm and I wish her all the very best for the future. I welcome Ming Long as the new Chair – an accomplished executive who brings with her exceptional corporate governance insight,” he said.
“Vanessa Sullivan’s experience in the renewable energy and sustainability sectors makes her a welcome addition to the board.
“I know these appointments will help ensure the strong leadership and governance of CSIRO into the future.” F
The Coopers Foundation has donated more than $8.2 million in funds, supporting more than 370 projects, since
expand our impact, making a tangible difference to the lives of Australians.”
Governor, Leanne Gelly, who has recently stepped down after 11 years on the Foundation Board.
“Leanne has made a significant and valued contribution to the Coopers Foundation for which we are very
Grunert joins two recent additions to the Board with former South Australian Premier, Steven Marshall, and sixthgeneration family member, Bec Cooper
funds, supporting more than 370 projects, since it was established by Coopers Brewery and the Cooper family in 2006. F
Vanessa Sullivan’s experience in the renewable energy and sustainability sectors makes her a welcome addition to the CSIRO Board.
Image: CSIRO
Image:
Coopers Foundation
it was established by Coopers Brewery.
Honest to Goodness’ products are rooted in the values of organic certification, sustainability, and transparency.
Sustainable growth in organic food sector
Honest to Goodness’ journey from a humble market stall to a nationally recognised brand is one that should inspire other manufacturers. Here’s why.
Honest to Goodness, founded in 2002 by Matt Ward is a specialist in organic and natural foods. What started as a modest market stall in Frenchs Forest, Sydney, has blossomed into a successful business committed to providing healthy, ethical, and sustainable food products.
Today, the company offers a diverse range of pantry staples, health foods, and personal care products, all rooted in the values of organic certification, sustainability, and transparency.
From market stall to national brand
The roots of Honest to Goodness can be traced back to a small farmers’ market stall, where Matt Ward sold organic nuts and dried fruits from bulk bins.
At the time, organic and whole foods were not as widely available as they are today. However, there was a clear demand from locals for healthier, more natural alternatives
“I remember scooping and filling paper bags by hand every weekend,” said Ward.
Honest to Goodness’ story is a testament to the power of sustainability, transparency, and dedication to quality.
“It was hard work, but incredibly rewarding. To this day, we have customers who tell us they first bought from us at those markets. That personal connection to our customers and our products has remained at the heart of Honest to Goodness ever since.”
The initial vision behind Honest to Goodness was to create a business that not only offered organic food but also built a direct supply chain from producers to consumers.
This focus on high-quality, organic foods grew naturally as Ward realised there was an opportunity to make organic food more accessible to Australians.
Commitment to sustainability
Sustainability has been a key driver of Honest to Goodness’ mission from the beginning. For Ward, it was personal.
synthetic chemicals, but because it comes from production systems that are transparent, sustainable, and better for the environment.”
“From the very beginning, we’ve been conscious about what we eat in our own home, especially when feeding our kids,” he said.
“Organic food always made sense to us, not just because it’s free from
As consumer interest in food origins and sustainability grew, Honest to Goodness was quick to adopt a model that prioritised not just organic certification, but also sustainable and ethical production practices.
This is evident in the company’s
approach to sourcing products from local Australian farms and international producers who share these values.
Transparency and ethical sourcing
Honest to Goodness works closely with its suppliers and growers, ensuring that all products meet its stringent standards for organic certification, sustainability, and quality.
Images: Honest to Goodness
Matt and Karen Ward grew Honest to Goodness from a humble market stall to a nationally recognised brand.
“When selecting suppliers, we look for partners who align with our values,” said Ward.
“Key factors we consider include organic certifications, quality and taste, and scalability. We take a collaborative approach, working closely with our producers to build long-term, sustainable relationships.”
The company also ensures the ethical sourcing of its ingredients, a principle that extends beyond the product’s certification.
“We focus on single-ingredient, unprocessed foods, which allows us to have full visibility into where our ingredients come from and how they’re grown,” said Ward.
“We work with farmers and suppliers who follow regenerative agricultural practices, improving soil health and biodiversity.”
The manufacturing process
Honest to Goodness works with a small number of contract manufacturers to
produce its products, ensuring that these partners share the company’s commitment to organic farming and sustainability.
One of the company’s flagship products, Organic Coconut Cream, is sourced from long-standing partners in Sri Lanka who use agroforestry techniques and promote zero-synthetic inputs.
“We’ve worked with the same supplier for many years, and they hold numerous certifications ensuring highquality, ethically produced coconut products,” said Ward.
“We prioritise farms that contribute to healthier soils, greater biodiversity, and carbon sequestration.”
Honest to Goodness also ensures that its packaging supports sustainability. Its coconut cream, for example, is packaged in fully recyclable cans, while by-products from production, such as coconut husks, are repurposed, contributing to minimal waste.
All ingredients in Honest to Goodness products are ethically sourced.
This focus on high-quality, organic foods grew naturally as Ward realised there was an opportunity to make organic food more accessible for Australians.
Overcoming early challenges
In the early days, scaling up while maintaining product quality posed significant challenges for Honest to Goodness.
“Organic food production often comes with natural variations, and crops change seasonally,” said Ward.
“Yield fluctuations can make it difficult to secure a consistent supply at scale.”
Another hurdle was sourcing the right suppliers who aligned with Honest to Goodness’ values.
“Many organic producers are smaller-
to support consumers in making sustainable choices across multiple areas of their lives, from their kitchen to their bathrooms and homes.
Future growth and innovation
As he looks to the future, Ward sees many opportunities for growth.
“We see huge potential in continuing to expand our range of sustainable and organic products while making them even more accessible to Australian households,” he said.
“We also see technology and innovation in logistics, packaging, and
“We’ve stayed true to our founding values and built a business based on trust,” he said.“While the organic food space has become more competitive, we believe our commitment to quality, authenticity, and ethical sourcing sets us apart.”
For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to create a business that makes a positive impact, Ward has some key advice.
“Stay true to your values and build your business on authenticity and trust. Consumers are becoming more
conscious of what they buy and from whom, so if you’re doing something meaningful, people will support you,” he said.
Honest to Goodness’ story is a testament to the power of sustainability, transparency, and dedication to quality.
As the company continues to grow, it remains focused on creating healthier and more sustainable choices for consumers, while supporting a thriving
Honest to Goodness will continue to expand its product range to meet changing consumer trends.
Honest to Goodness employs a dedicated team (pictured) that share the same philosophy around organic food as the founders.
Delivering a cutting edge indoor vertical farm
Total Construction has partnered with Stacked Farm and the Melbourne Airport to deliver an Australian first vertical farm.
Total Construction has been appointed as the design and construction partner for Stacked Farms’ fully automated indoor vertical farm at Melbourne Airport, marking a big step in the evolution of sustainable food production.
The project, with an investment of $150 million, has already received planning approvals, and construction began in January 2025.
The facility is set to cover 10,000 square metres and once completed, will be the world’s largest indoor vertical farm by output, producing 3.4 million kilograms of fresh herbs and leafy greens annually.
The project is scheduled to be completed by mid-2026.
As the designated partner for the design and construction of the project, Total Construction brings extensive experience in food and beverage facility development.
The company has been involved
in the project from its inception, working under an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) model, which allows for a collaborative and risk-managed approach to delivery.
Total Construction has been working closely with Stacked Farm and Melbourne Airport since 2023, refining the project’s design, approvals, and buildability.
This partnership has ensured the facility will be both efficient and scalable, offering a sustainable solution to meet the increasing demand for locally grown fresh produce.
By engaging early, Total Construction ensured the project isn’t only groundbreaking in scale and efficiency but also fully optimised for sustainability and performance.
“Our experience in delivering complex food and beverage facilities allows us to provide tailored engineering and construction solutions that support our clients’ technological and operational
requirements,” said Rob Blythman group general manager, food and beverage at Total Construction.
Advanced pre-construction planning
Total Construction’s involvement from the early stages has been crucial in accelerating the project’s timeline. Key milestones during the pre-construction phase include:
• T he timeline for the Stacked Farm vertical farm project unfolded over several key stages, beginning in August 2023 and moving swiftly towards the commencement of construction in January 2025.
• I nitial design collaboration and feasibility assessments took place between August 2023 and April 2024, with Total Construction working closely with Stacked Farm to refine the project’s scope and design.
• By October 2023, the first budgetary costing for the project was provided,
and weekly steering meetings with Melbourne Airport were initiated to ensure alignment on the project’s progression. In January 2024, site investigations and due diligence were completed, confirming that the site was ready for development. This critical phase ensured that any potential issues were addressed before moving forward.
• I n February 2024, the planning permit was submitted, marking a milestone as this was the first time Melbourne Airport had seen a planning permit submitted before the board’s formal approval for the project. This proactive approach helped expedite the project’s approval process.
• T he APAM Board approved the project in March 2024, followed by Total Construction being issued a Letter of Intent to proceed with the design work.
• T he project reached another major
Construction of the Stacked Farm’s vertical farm began at Melbourne Airport in January of this year.
milestone in May 2024, when the 100 per cent design finalisation was completed, and staged construction documentation was initiated. This signified the completion of the design phase and the start of detailed planning for the construction stage. In December 2024, Total Construction mobilised the site, with airport authority approval finalised, setting the stage for the physical development to begin.
• Finally, in January 2025, construction officially began, marking the start of the next phase in bringing the world’s largest indoor vertical farm (by volume) to life at Melbourne Airport. This careful and methodical timeline ensured that each step was completed efficiently, paving the way for a successful project delivery.
The Stacked Farms vertical farm project will set a global benchmark for high-tech farming, featuring advanced technology and sustainable practices.
Key innovations
This new facility will have several standout features including AI-driven operations. It will be automated, with 25 proprietary robotic systems managing key processes such as seeding, germination, and harvesting
This technology ensures precise, efficient farming with minimal human intervention, increasing productivity while reducing the need for manual labour. In addition to automation, the facility is designed with energy
used in the farm will be 47 per cent more energy-efficient than traditional farming setups, lowering the farm’s energy consumption. This focus on energy efficiency is just one aspect of the farm’s commitment to sustainability, as it will also implement a zero-waste water system.
This system will recycle and reuse water throughout the farming process, ensuring minimal waste.
The farm’s ability to produce crops year-round is supported by a climate-
controlled environment, which ensures consistent conditions for growth regardless of the external weather.
This climate control allows for continuous, reliable crop production, a crucial factor in meeting demand and maintaining supply throughout the year.
Labour efficiency is another area where the facility excels. Unlike traditional farms that often require large teams to manage operations, Stacked Farm will only need 15 highly skilled staff to run the entire operation.
This streamlined workforce is made possible by the advanced technology and automation systems in place, enabling the farm to operate more efficiently than conventional farming methods.
Finally, the farm will see faster crop cycles compared to traditional farming.
Crops will be ready for harvest in just 16 to 31 days, a reduction from the typical 45 to 80 days required for crops grown using conventional methods.
The accelerated cycle allows the farm to produce more crops in less time, further improving efficiency and sustainability.
Total Construction’s expertise in high-performance food and beverage infrastructure positions the company as a leader in delivering innovative, sustainable, and future-proof developments.
This project is another milestone in Total Construction’s history of successful food and beverage projects, showcasing its in-house expertise in process engineering, design, and construction management.
Once completed, Stacked Farm Melbourne will be the first largescale indoor vertical farm located in an airport precinct in the Southern Hemisphere.
The facility will not only demonstrate the power of advanced engineering and sustainable practices but will also serve as a model for future vertical farming projects worldwide. F
Stacked Farm CEO Conrad Smith, Stacked Farm founder Daniel Tzvetkoff , Melbourne Airport chief ground transport, property and retail Jai McDermott, and Total Construction founder and MD, Steve Taylor break ground on the project.
The construction of Stacked Farm’s vertical farm is expected to be completed by mid-2026.
Driving efficiency and innovation in F&B manufacturing
Treotham Automation has firmly positioned itself as a key player in Australia’s food and beverage manufacturing sector.
With over three decades in the market, Treotham Automation provides industrial automation solutions that help streamline production processes and improve efficiency, particularly for food and beverage manufacturing.
Since its founding, Treotham has evolved from a small enterprise offering industrial automation products to a leader in automation technologies, providing cutting-edge solutions for food producers across Australia and beyond.
Specialising in the food and beverage sector, Treotham offers a comprehensive range of automation products, including flexible cables, energy chains, control cables, safety sensors, vacuum technology, and hygienic systems.
The company’s products are designed to meet the unique challenges faced
by food production facilities, such as stringent hygiene requirements, high-speed operations, and the need for reliability and minimal downtime.
“Treotham provides a full circle of automation components that help ensure smooth production,” said Michael Wood, Technical Sales Engineer at Treotham.
“Our solutions not only focus on improving the efficiency of operations but also on reducing maintenance requirements, which is critical in an industry like food and beverage.”
One of the company’s key product offerings is the FC joint system, a robust, corrosion-resistant component made from igumid FC plastic.
This innovative system eliminates the need for external lubrication, reducing the risk of contamination in
food production environments where sanitation is paramount.
The FC joint’s wear-resistant properties and ease of cleaning make it an ideal solution for the food industry, ensuring compliance with the highest hygiene standards.
In addition to the FC joint, Treotham offers energy chains combined with Chainflex cables, which protect cables from mechanical wear and environmental stressors common in food manufacturing settings.
These systems ensure that cables remain intact and fully functional, even in high-speed or dynamic applications, minimising maintenance and downtime. The company also provides vacuum technology solutions, which are integral in handling and packaging processes, improving product flow, and reducing
contamination risks.
Treotham’s sensors and measuring systems help manufacturers optimise production processes and maintain food safety standards by monitoring critical variables such as temperature, pressure, and humidity. These sensors enable precise control over the production process, ensuring consistency and quality in the final product.
Additionally, the company’s connectors and flexible conduits are built to withstand the tough conditions of food processing environments, ensuring secure and reliable electrical connections.
“A key part of our success lies in our ability to offer solutions that meet the demanding requirements of the food and beverage sector,” said Wood.
“We work closely with our clients to
Treotham’s range of automation products, including flexible cables, energy chains, control cables, safety sensors, vacuum technology, and hygienic systems.
ensure they get the right products for their specific needs, whether it’s for a unique machine or a large-scale production line.”
Treotham’s strong partnerships with global manufacturers such as igus, Lapp, and PMA allow the company to bring world-class automation solutions to the Australian market.
These collaborations provide Treotham’s clients with access to cuttingedge technologies, ensuring they stay competitive in an increasingly demanding industry. Through these partnerships, Treotham can offer high-performance cables, hygienic bearing systems, advanced sensors, and much more, enabling manufacturers to maintain high efficiency and safety standards.
“The partnerships we have cultivated with leading manufacturers have been instrumental in providing our customers with the best automation solutions available,” said Wood.
“These collaborations allow us to offer a wider range of products and ensure that we meet the specific needs of the food and beverage sector.”
Treotham’s reach extends well beyond national borders with a global network of distribution partners. The company serves clients across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond, including the USA and Canada.
This international presence not only allows Treotham to support a broader
range of customers but also enables the company to assist with export approvals.
“Whereas Australia does export some machines, not as many as what a lot of other countries would do, but this opens up that avenue for our customers,” said Wood.
“For example, if they are exporting to the USA or Canada and it’s a food processing or packaging machine, then we’re able to provide all the CSA UL approvals that are required for that cable to enter and be certified.
“Being able to provide that and all the documentation allows the customer to look at projects they may have not been able to in the past.”
This international scope provides customers with added value, ensuring they have the necessary approvals for exporting machines and components, allowing them to expand their business opportunities globally.
Treotham’s success can also be attributed to its focus on customer satisfaction and long-term relationships. The company’s team of experts works closely with clients to provide tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of each project.
From initial consultation to after-sales support, Treotham ensures that customers receive the highest level of service throughout the entire process.
“It depends on the customer. Food and beverage manufacturing, or machine manufacturing in Australia, is a lot of one-offs, and that means a need for unique machines,” said Wood.
“What we’re providing is essential requirements, the use of third-party
processing and production processes. Our wide network is an added benefit to the customer, as Treotham has a selection from the top companies in their fields.”
This ability to provide tailored solutions is key to Treotham’s success. By becoming a one-stop shop for automation components, Treotham simplifies the process for customers, allowing them to focus on what matters most—optimising their production lines.
“It ends up making our customer’s job a lot easier because we become a one-stop shop for the components they require,” said Wood. “We’re able to use our expertise in those product groups to provide the best solution.”
The company’s commitment to sustainability is another aspect that sets it apart.
Treotham integrates energy-efficient technologies into its products, helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint while improving operational efficiency.
In an era where sustainability is a top priority for many businesses, Treotham’s environmentally conscious approach helps clients meet their sustainability goals while maintaining high productivity.
As technological innovation accelerates, Treotham remains at the forefront of industrial automation. The company continues to develop and introduce new solutions that meet the everevolving needs of the food and beverage sector.
“The advantages that come with employing better automation are numerous, with each one having some positive impact on production costs,” said Wood.
“Maintenance is probably one of the biggest issues in the food and beverage industry at the moment, due to labour costs, general downtime, and so on.
“We can provide a product that essentially has zero maintenance and a scheduled lifetime calculation allowing the customer to schedule in their maintenance, reducing their downtime, and essentially reduce their costs.”
This focus on reducing maintenance and downtime is a key reason why Treotham is such a valuable partner for food manufacturers. By providing products that require minimal maintenance, Treotham helps its clients maximise their productivity and reduce the overall cost of operations.
As Treotham Automation looks to the future, it remains committed to shaping the future of industrial automation through innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.
With a strong track record of success, the company is well-positioned to continue helping businesses in the food and beverage sector optimise their operations and stay competitive in an increasingly globalised market.
Through its broad range of highquality products, deep industry knowledge, and commitment to customer satisfaction, Treotham Automation has become a trusted partner for businesses in the food and beverage manufacturing sector.
Whether it’s providing hygienic sensors, reliable cables, or advanced automation systems, Treotham continues to lead the way in driving efficiency, productivity, and sustainability across the industry. F
Images:
Treotham Automation
Treotham’s connectors and flexible conduits are built to withstand the tough conditions of food processing environments, ensuring secure and reliable electrical connections.
Cutting-edge innovations set for FoodTech Qld
With FoodTech closing in, Food & Beverage Industry News
The FoodTech Qld expo will return in 2025, showcasing advancements in food production, science, supply chain, distribution, warehousing, safety, processing, packaging, and plant equipment. The event will be held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on 19-20 June.
FoodTech Qld provides a platform for more than 3,000 professionals in the food and beverage manufacturing sector to drive business growth, explore new technologies, and network. Attendees will have access to more than 140 suppliers offering solutions for food production and processing.
The event has built a strong reputation as a key date on the calendar for its highly targeted audience, which seeks out the latest innovations and advancements to improve manufacturing and production.
Among the list of exhibitors for FoodTech Qld 2025 is Aquatiq, which provides advanced water treatment and filtration solutions, specialising in custom systems for water purification, filtration, and reuse.
“We are bringing a new era of food safety to the Australian food industry. Our strategy is to combine high-level expertise in food safety with advanced equipment, chemistry, and
Simon Fraser, Aquatiq managing director, Australia and New Zealand, said the company is eager to introduce its comprehensive suite of products designed to enhance food safety standards while supporting sustainability and operational efficiency.
At the core of Aquatiq’s exhibition is its “Aquatiq 360” approach to food safety, a holistic concept that integrates automated cleaning systems, specialised chemistry, training, and advanced data management software. The company’s Aquatiq One software, which offers trending and analysis of product and environmental testing, will also be a key feature at the event.
Fraser said participation in FoodTech Qld provides an opportunity to not only promote their brand but also establish strong connections with processors, suppliers, and potential partners in the region.
“We are bringing a new era of food safety to the Australian food industry,” said Fraser.
The Queensland market, particularly the red meat processing sector, is of particular importance to Aquatiq as it
Exhibitors say that FoodTech Qld provides a premium networking opportunity for key stakeholders and decision makers across the industry.
FoodTech Qld brings together key innovations and technologies making big impacts on the food and beverage manufacturing industry.
continues to expand its presence in the region.
The company’s innovative solutions are designed to address the ongoing challenges in the food manufacturing industry, such as labour shortages, sustainability goals, and occupational health and safety improvements.
Exhibiting at FoodTech Qld also allows Aquatiq to further solidify its position as a leading player in the food safety space.
“We are a food safety business, and that’s our core focus,” he said. “We have extensive global experience in solving issues with training, equipment, and chemistry.”
In addition to showcasing its existing solutions, Aquatiq will also introduce new technologies, including automatic cleaning systems that align with sustainability targets and environmental testing tools powered by AI.
With a strong emphasis on innovation, the company plans to engage attendees through live demonstrations and in-depth discussions with food safety experts on-site.
For Aquatiq, networking is a critical aspect of FoodTech Qld.
The company is particularly interested in meeting with industry leaders and discussing advancements in food safety and sustainability. With a hope that these interactions will lead to new partnerships, collaborations, and future growth opportunities.
Looking ahead, Aquatiq sees its participation in FoodTech Qld as
pivotal for driving brand awareness and positioning the company for long-term success within the Australian food industry. The event serves as an essential platform for staying ahead of industry trends, connecting with stakeholders, and gathering valuable feedback that will inform future product development.
“We anticipate that this exposure will not only strengthen our position in the Australian market but will also help us stay ahead of competitors by continually evolving and innovating our food safety solutions,” said Fraser.
Another key exhibitor for FoodTech Qld 2025 is Viking Food Solutions.
According to Donna Augoustakis, marketing manager, Viking Food Solutions, the company’s motivation to exhibit at FoodTech QLD is twofold, to introduce the company’s Queensland branch and engage with clients.
“We’re excited to launch our Queensland presence and meet new and existing customers, showcasing our wide range of services and products, including in-house printing, converting, and packaging solutions,” said Augoustakis.
“This is a chance for us to directly engage with the industry, offering not just products but a full-service experience,” said Augoustakis.
“Our food industry is one of the most pivotal sectors of our economy, and we’re thrilled to partner with Australian food businesses as they grow and navigate their journeys,” said Augoustakis.
Viking Food Solutions has developed a reputation for agility and customer-
centricity with an ability to respond quickly to market demands, including product launches and the provision of quick stock supplies.
Viking also aims to address critical challenges facing the food manufacturing sector, particularly around the need for reliable product supply and minimising downtime in production.
“Our commitment is to ensure a continued supply of quality products with full-service coverage. Downtime in production costs businesses immensely, and we work hard to prevent that,” said Augoustakis.
Innovation will also take centre stage, with Viking unveiling its new premium vacuum shrink bags and export-grade packaging solutions. These innovations promise to improve product integrity during transport and offer superior presentation.
“Our APEX Tomahawk bags, for instance, are designed to provide a flawless finish with strength and gloss, ensuring the best possible presentation for products like Tomahawks,” said Augoustakis.
In addition to showcasing its product range, Viking’s presence at FoodTech QLD will reinforce its strong local commitment in Queensland, a key hub for Australian beef exports.
The opening of its Queensland office and warehouse will allow the company to better manage stock levels and reduce delivery times for its customers.
Viking Food Solutions’ focus at the
event will not only be on attracting new business but also on fostering existing partnerships through meaningful, faceto-face interactions.
“We’re here to listen, support, and build relationships. It’s about making sure our customers feel truly valued,” said Augoustakis.
Viking is keenly attuned to evolving industry trends. With increasing demand for biodegradable and recyclable materials, the company plans to continue its focus on sustainable packaging technologies
Aquatiq Australia and Viking Food Solutions a prime example of the cutting-edge solutions set to be showcased at FoodTech Qld 2025.
Visitor registration is free and tickets can be purchased to the two day conference at foodtechqld.com.au F
FoodTech QLD 2025 Highlights:
Conference
A two-day conference runs alongside the expo, offering insights from subject matter experts on emerging trends and technologies. These sessions are designed to tackle the biggest challenges facing today’s food manufacturers.
• Interactive Exhibits
From advanced filling line equipment and automated packaging systems to digital measuring solutions and sustainable packaging options, the show floor will cover every aspect of food technology.
• Supplier Engagement
Direct contact with leading solutions providers and innovators who are defining the future of food manufacturing and production. Discover new products, technologies, and services that can help scale business operations whilst improving the bottom line.
• Networking Opportunities
The event kicks off with a Welcome Party at The Star’s Isoletto Privé, on the evening of 18 June, followed by an official Networking Party at QT’s Stingray Lounge on the evening of 19 June. During the exhibition there will also be a Networking Lounge, sponsored by Mosca, where visitors can mix with the rising stars and leading brands in food manufacturing.
Among the key exhibitors for FoodTech Qld 2025 are Aquatiq Australia and Viking Food Solutions.
Supermarket inquiry report released
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has laid bare a string of recommendations in the final report from its inquiry into the supermarket sector.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has released its final report on the supermarket sector, offering 20 recommendations aimed at enhancing competition, improving consumer outcomes, and providing fairer conditions for suppliers.
The inquiry found that ALDI, Coles, and Woolworths are among the most profitable supermarket chains globally, with their product margins increasing over the past five years.
The recommendations focus on clearer pricing practices, increased transparency for suppliers, and reforms to planning and zoning laws, all designed to create a more competitive environment in the sector.
According to the ACCC, parts of Australia’s supermarket sector are not functioning as effectively as expected, leading to suboptimal outcomes for
consumers and suppliers.
“In the past 12 months, the ACCC has heard from more than 20,000 consumers through a survey, reviewed over 100 public submissions, held eight supplier roundtables, and analysed billions of supermarket data points,” said ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh.
“Based on this extensive analysis, we have recommended measures to improve competition and deliver better outcomes for consumers and suppliers.
“There is no ‘silver bullet’ to address all the issues, but we believe these recommendations will improve conditions and enhance competition in the sector.”
Strengthening competition
Consumer preference for convenience remains a key factor in supermarket choice. Despite this, more shoppers are now price-conscious and
willing to compare prices.
The ACCC suggests that making it easier for consumers to compare prices will encourage supermarkets to compete more aggressively on cost.
To facilitate this, it has recommended that ALDI, Coles, and Woolworths be required to publish their prices online, with Coles and Woolworths also providing application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow third parties, such as price comparison websites, to access dynamic pricing information.
The inquiry also highlighted the barriers preventing new or smaller supermarkets from expanding in Australia. With limited retail sites available due to restrictive planning and zoning laws, the ACCC recommended that all levels of government simplify and harmonise these requirements.
This would make it easier for new
supermarkets, particularly small-scale independents, to enter the market and provide local consumers with more choices.
“Currently, suitable retail sites are limited by planning and zoning laws, which restrict supply and can deter expansion,” said Keogh.
“Simplifying these laws will enhance competition and make it easier to establish new supermarkets.”
New merger regime
The ACCC also noted that Coles and Woolworths hold advantages in securing retail sites due to their size, reputation, and financial strength. This makes it difficult for potential competitors to find suitable sites.
The inquiry stressed the importance of strengthening the ACCC’s ability to monitor supermarket acquisitions, an area the new merger reform laws are designed to address.
The ACCC recommended amending the Food and Grocery Code to ensure that supermarkets cannot bypass its core protections during negotiations with suppliers.
Since 2019, Coles and Woolworths have acquired around 260 sites, though only 14 of these acquisitions were formally reported to the ACCC. The recently passed merger reform laws will enable greater scrutiny of such acquisitions, with the aim of preventing a substantial reduction in competition.
“The merger reforms, combined with the recommendations in our final report, will help improve competition and lead to better outcomes for consumers and suppliers in the long term,” said Keogh.
Reducing consumer burden
One of the ACCC’s key recommendations is improving transparency around pricing, promotions, and loyalty programs to reduce confusion for consumers trying to assess value for money.
This includes clearer sales tickets and better communication of promotions, which would help shoppers make more informed decisions when they are at the checkout.
One issue raised during the inquiry was ‘shrinkflation’, where the size of a product decreases while its price remains the same or increases. The ACCC has recommended that supermarkets be required to notify consumers when shrinkflation occurs, with these notifications displayed on product labels and online product pages.
“By giving consumers clearer information on price changes, they can make more informed choices and switch to cheaper alternatives if they prefer,” said Keogh.
Price transparency
Higher freight costs and a lack of competition in regional and remote areas contribute to higher supermarket prices in these locations. The ACCC has recommended improving price visibility and complaints handling in these areas, as well as encouraging communityowned stores in regions with limited supermarket options.
“Some remote supermarkets do not display prices for all grocery items, which makes it difficult for consumers
to assess product value,” said Keogh.
“We support measures to ensure all items in remote stores are clearly priced, and that consumers know where to submit complaints if necessary.”
Transparency for fresh produce suppliers
The ACCC’s inquiry revealed an imbalance in bargaining power between supermarkets and some fresh produce suppliers. Supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths can exert considerable
influence over pricing and supply terms, often leaving suppliers with little room for negotiation.
To address this, the ACCC is recommending that major retailers provide suppliers with greater transparency around weekly tendering processes, and that supermarkets be prohibited from unilaterally changing agreed prices or volumes except in the case of a force majeure event.
Keogh explained that providing suppliers with better information on seasonal forecasts and demand would allow them to plan more effectively, reducing risk and uncertainty in their business dealings.
“We found that suppliers are often at a disadvantage in negotiations due to a lack of transparency. By improving access to market data and forecasts, suppliers will be better equipped to make informed decisions and manage their risks,” he said.
The ACCC also recommended amending the Food and Grocery Code to ensure that supermarkets cannot bypass its core protections during negotiations with suppliers.
The commission’s recommendations aim to address these issues by increasing transparency, simplifying regulations, and enhancing competition. The proposed changes are expected to benefit both consumers and suppliers, fostering a more dynamic and fair supermarket market in Australia.
The recommendations focus on clearer pricing practices, increased transparency for suppliers and assurances for consumers.
Image: Ridostock.adobe.com
The ACCC inquiry found that ALDI, Coles, and Woolworths are among the most profitable supermarket chains globally.
Calls for a national food security strategy
The National Farmers’ Federation has detailed key points of focus that can increase food security and strengthen supply chains through a national framework.
According to figures from the National Farmer’s Federation (NFF), the Australia’s food and beverage industry currently produces enough food for 75 million people. However, food security still faces growing challenges that demand a national strategy.
The COVID-19 pandemic revealed vulnerabilities in Australia’s food supply chains, showing how external shocks can disrupt production and delivery. Additionally, escalating geopolitical tensions, extreme weather, and rising costs have further highlighted the need for a coordinated approach to food security.
The NFF released a report, titled Securing Australia’s farming future, detailing the importance of the upcoming election and things that should be addressed to combat food insecurity going forward.
“The 2025 Federal Election comes at a critical moment for Australian agriculture and for every Australian family that relies on farmers for affordable food and fibre,” said David Jochinke, president of the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF).
“Our sector stands at the intersection of major mega trends that will reshape farming and consumer prices for generations to come.”
Jochinke comments highlight the urgency of addressing the interconnected challenges facing the sector.
“The global trading environment is becoming more protectionist and uncertain, threatening the market access that underpins our $80 billion export industry,” said Jochinke.
As such, Australia’s agricultural future hinges not only on domestic efforts but also on securing international trade relations.
Domestic pressures include competition for agricultural land, a strained workforce, and rising production costs.
The Food Agriculture Association (FAO) projects that by 2030, 360 million people could face food insecurity, making Australia’s role more critical. More than 30 per cent of Australian households already experience food insecurity, highlighting the urgency of addressing supply chain vulnerabilities.
The NFF’s advocacy for a National Food Plan is aimed at addressing these issues and ensuring agricultural considerations are integrated into government policy.
Meanwhile, the FAO’s 2023 inquiry into food security recommended a National Food Security Strategy to coordinate responses and maintain
Australia’s agricultural future hinges not only on domestic efforts but also on securing international trade relations.
“The choices we make in the coming term of Parliament could dictate not just the success of Aussie farming, but the ability of Australian families to access affordable, locally grown food and fibre for generations to come.”
Australia’s capacity to feed its population and the world.
In line with this, the National Food Security Preparedness Strategy would be a framework that ensures the industry can continue to feed Australians as the pace of disruptive forces increases.
There are many areas where the strategy could help safeguard long-term food security includes:
Reducing the cost of farming
Farmers face rising costs, with diesel, electricity, fertilisers, and machinery increasing more than 50 per cent in the past five years. Combined with labour shortages and regulatory compliance, these pressures strain productivity and food prices.
“Rising costs and red tape for farmers are driving up production costs, which inevitably flow through to higher prices at the supermarket checkout,” said Jochinke.
The NFF is also calling for policy reforms such as abolishing the Super Tax on family farms, maintaining the Fuel Tax Credits scheme, and committing $8 million annually to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).
Sustainable farming
Farmers manage more than half of Australia’s land and have reduced emissions intensity by 65 per cent since 1990. However, challenges like invasive species, water protection, and biodiversity remain. The NFF calls for a Federal Sustainable Agriculture Policy to support farmers in addressing these challenges while promoting sustainable practices.
“Our climate is changing, demanding new approaches to farming, and reshaping the expectations of our customers, regulators, and stakeholders,” said Jochinke.
Workforce and farm safety
The agricultural workforce shortage is worsened by recent reforms, and farm safety remains underfunded. The NFF advocates for more government investment in farm safety and mental health support for farmers, who have higher suicide rates than other workers.
“Unmet workforce needs continue to place a hand brake on productivity, with a growing risk that changing attitudes to migration will exacerbate this problem,” said Jochinke.
Securing global markets
Australia’s agricultural sector depends on global markets, exporting more than 70 per cent of its production annually. While trade with China has improved, uncertainties remain with protectionist policies, such as those from the Trump administration. The NFF advocates for increased trade diplomacy to secure Australia’s position.
“The global trading environment is becoming more protectionist and uncertain, threatening the market access that underpins our $80 billion export industry,” said Jochinke.
Regional infrastructure
The demographic shift towards regional Australia is placing pressure on infrastructure, including housing, healthcare, and digital connectivity.
The NFF urges investment in regional infrastructure to support growing populations and agricultural productivity.
“Our regions are transforming rapidly as internal migration accelerates, stretching housing, infrastructure, and services to their limits,” said Jochinke.
By addressing supply chain vulnerabilities, reducing cost pressures, supporting sustainable practices, and ensuring access to global markets, Australia can secure food security for its citizens and the world.
“The NFF looks forward to engaging with all candidates and parties in the coming election campaign to highlight how supporting farmers helps keep food and fibre affordable for all Australians, while achieving our vision of becoming Australia’s next $100 billion industry by the year 2030,” said Jochinke. F
Unmet workforce needs continue to place a hand brake on agricultural productivity.
Call to action from the AFGC
The Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) has released the results of its biennial survey. Heres’ what it found.
The Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) has listed a series of key actions it believes should be adopted to achieve an increasingly stronger sector moving forward. In a statement from the council, a spokesperson said the candidates in the upcoming Federal Election should prioritise policies that address immediate needs of Australia’s food and grocery sector while paving the way for long-term collaborative solutions.
“The food and grocery sector has faced growing pressures in recent years,” an AFGC statement read.
“Supply chains remain strained after COVID-19, costs are rising, and the industry is faced with increasing compliance demands, from improving nutrition content to advancing
sustainability through packaging and energy use.
“Without collaborative and sustained action, the ability to deliver the products Australians know and love are at risk. A thriving food and grocery industry is the key ingredient for a resilient Australia.
“The sector touches every household, and securing its future is critical for our nation’s economic and social stability.”
Some key actions to achieve this future include:
• Strengthen supply chains by investing in critical infrastructure like the East-West Rail to ensure efficient and reliable delivery of essential goods to consumers nationwide
• I ncentivise investment with targeted
tax breaks for advanced technologies, automation, and energy efficiency upgrades to boost productivity and sustainability
• Champion clear and consistent packaging regulation that is harmonised across Australia and industries to boost circularity.
In its call to action, the AFGC divided recommendations into three categories, ‘today’, ‘tomorrow’, and ‘together’.
Among the actions that can be adopted today was a call to strengthen vital connections like the aforementioned East-West Rail. It is Australia’s only direct train link between the East and West coasts, to safeguard supply chain efficiency and national resilience.
The AFGC is urging increased government investment to reinforce this important freight rail line and East Coast freight rail network, vital for the nationwide delivery of essential food and groceries.
The AFGC spokesperson said fortifying these critical arteries, including roads, against rain, fire or other conditions protects the delivery of essential food and groceries to consumers nationwide.
As well as the infrastructure strengthening, the AFGC also called for tax incentives to help boost investment, coupled with an increase in funding for Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).
For points of action further down the line, the AFGC hopes to see
The AFGC is calling for supply chains to be strengthened by investing in critical infrastructure.
The AFGC is calling for government to incentivise investment in innovative technologies.
more incentives for companies to adopt renewable energy solutions and more efficient technology across the industry, along with clear and consistent packaging regulations and a wider adoption of digital labelling.
And for the ‘together’ recommendations, the organisation has called for more collaborative efforts such as reinforcing the Healthy Food Partnership (HFP) between government and industry, and incentivising food donation to limit food waste.
The AFGC also released results from its biennial survey, in partnership with Argon & Co, which supports the points of action, detailing five trends shaping food and grocery supply chains.
These trends were: cutting costs in supply chain; regular disruptions; the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation revolution; sustainability; and consumer preferences.
Cutting costs in supply chain
The survey revealed that 43 per cent of respondents are focusing on cost reduction over the next one to two years. This marks the first time in the survey’s history that cost reduction has surpassed customer satisfaction as the top priority
for supply chain leaders.
Energy, materials, labour, and transport were identified as the main cost concerns.
With production costs continuing to rise, profitability is under pressure. If this trend persists, businesses may face difficult decisions, including price hikes, smaller pack sizes, or reduced quality, all of which could affect consumers
Disruptions
Nearly 80 per cent of respondents reported moderate to significant disruptions, with 68 per cent citing delays in international shipping.
In response, businesses have diversified suppliers, strengthened resilience, and improved agility
AI and Automation
A survey has found that 74 per cent of respondents plan to invest in AI and automation over the next three years, aiming to improve route optimisation, efficiency, and quality control.
However, the adoption of these technologies is being hindered by a shortage of skilled workers. Companies are now focusing on upskilling their
Sustainability
Sustainability continues to be a key focus for manufacturers.
Australian companies will need to meet new climate-related disclosure requirements and packaging reforms, which begin this year.
While upfront costs are high, sustainability investments enhance brand reputation and help future-proof operations. The challenge lies in finding cost-effective solutions to meet rising expectations.
Consumer preferences
Market research shows consumers are increasingly choosing organic, sustainable, and minimally processed products. This shift is prompting consumer goods manufacturers to reassess product portfolios, supply chains, and sourcing strategies. Companies that quickly adapt to these changes in consumer behaviour can secure brand loyalty and maintain market share in a competitive market. However, product innovation to meet these demands is capital
intensive and challenging in a high-cost production environment. Consumer preference was also in the top three considerations for supply chain planning.
“Strengthening the resilience of supply chains by investing in rail and road, embracing AI and adapting to shifting consumer demands will be critical to the industry’s success,” the AFGC call to action stated.
“With the right government and industry action, Australia’s food and grocery sector can build stronger supply chains for the future.” F
The food and grocery industry in numbers:
• The largest manufacturing sector in Australia, accounting for 32.2 per cent of all manufacturing
• Contributes $163 billion to the Australian economy
• Supports more than 280,000 employees, about 40 per cent are in rural and regional areas
• Targets industry value of $250 billion by 2030
teams to implement robotics, machine learning, and warehouse automation.
Despite recycling numbers growing in Queensland, there figures are still short of expectations.
Recycling scheme to undergo Parliamentary Inquiry
Queensland’s Containers for Change scheme highlights the value of investing in and promoting recycling and waste reduction, but more can be done.
Queensland’s Containers for Change scheme continues to grow in popularity, with the program recently reaching the significant milestone of eight billion containers returned since its launch in November 2018.
This achievement underscores the success of the scheme in encouraging recycling and reducing litter across the state and is a prime example of a circular economy in action.
The initiative, which offers a 10-cent refund for eligible drink containers and is administered by Container Exchange,
aims to curb the environmental impact of littered containers while promoting sustainable waste management practices.
By providing a financial incentive, Containers for Change has played a key role in increasing Queensland’s recycling rate and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill.
In total, the scheme has returned $800 million to Queenslanders, with $12 million of that amount being donated to charities and community groups.
Environment Minister Leanne Linard and Container Exchange (CoEx)
CEO Natalie Roach celebrated the eight billion container milestone at the Community Co Recycling Depot in Windsor, Brisbane.
Minister Linard highlighted the positive environmental impact of the scheme, noting that the eight billion containers returned represent a reduction of 400,000 tonnes of waste, equivalent to enough containers to wrap around the Earth’s equator 35 times.
“This is a phenomenal amount of waste that has been diverted from landfill and recycled, benefiting our natural environment and the
community,” said Linard. “It’s also fantastic news for Queenslanders, who have collectively shared in $800 million in refunds.”
The scheme’s expansion in late 2023 to include glass wine and spirit bottles has further contributed to its success
Since the expansion, there has been a 13.5 per cent increase in the quantity of glass bottles returned, helping to drive up the overall volume of containers returned.
In January 2024, a record 175.8 million containers were returned, surpassing the previous record of 157.5
million in January 2023.
Roach expressed pride in the continued success of the scheme, particularly the growing participation in glass container recycling, a key for the beverage sector.
“The return of eight billion containers highlights the ongoing dedication of Queenslanders to container recycling,” she said.
“With the inclusion of glass wine and spirit bottles, we have seen record volumes returned, and we are excited by the positive impact this scheme continues to have.”
The scheme operates as a product stewardship arrangement, where drink manufacturers cover the costs of operation, as well as processing the containers for recycling.
This ensures that manufacturers take responsibility for the environmental impact of their products after consumption.
The Queensland Government has appointed the not-for-profit group CoEx as the Product Responsibility Organisation (PRO) to manage the
scheme. CoEx oversees ensuring the efficient operation of the scheme, providing access to container refund points throughout the state, and supporting ongoing expansion efforts.
CoEx offers various return options, including depots, 24-hour bag drops, self-serve reverse vending machines, and home collection services.
The scheme will soon undergo a Parliamentary Inquiry, launched by the Queensland Government in February after the it said it wants to see the recycling rates increase further.
Containers for Change has played a key role in increasing Queensland’s recycling rate and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill.
Innovation, Andrew Powell, said the Inquiry would help identify how the program could be improved to put more refunds in Queenslanders’ pockets.
“The Queensland Government is committed to boosting recycling through Containers for Change, saving recyclables from landfill and delivering more refunds to Queenslanders,” said Powell.
“This is a phenomenal amount of waste that has been diverted from landfill and recycled, benefiting our natural environment and the community.”
The Containers for Change app also allows users to track their refunds and find nearby return points.
Linard also emphasised the ongoing commitment of the Queensland Government to expanding the scheme and improving recycling rates across the state.
We want to see the scheme continue to grow,” she said. “That’s why I am working with the board and CEO of Container Exchange on new ideas to further increase the rate of container recycling.”
The scheme has a legislated target return rate of 85 per cent but, despite more Queenslanders returning their eligible items, the return rate has continually fallen short of that target
The scheme has a legislated target return rate of 85 per cent, but despite more Queenslanders returning their eligible items, the return rate has continually fallen short of that target.
COEX’s 2023-24 annual report reveals an annual recovery rate of 67.4 per cent, and the recovery rate for the first two quarters of this financial year is 62.7 per cent, around 20 per cent shy of legislated targets.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and
“We need to understand why the program has fallen short of its targets … and how it can be improved to deliver more benefits for Queenslanders.
“The Inquiry will also assess deposit location coverage, to help boost Queenslanders’ access.”
The Inquiry will also examine the current state and operation of the scheme, its efficiency and effectiveness in delivering on its legislative objects.
The Parliamentary Committee has been tasked with delivering a report by August 2025, one that details how to improve the number of containers returned to hit the initial target.
If successful, the program will give key insights for other State Governments to evaluate. F
Australia overhauls measurement legislation
In a move to modernise and streamline its measurement system, the Australian Government is reforming the country’s measurement legislation.
The Federal Government’s overhaul of Australia’s measurement legislation has been sparked by a comprehensive review of the current laws, aiming to better align with the evolving needs of businesses, particularly in sectors like food and beverage manufacturing, while ensuring accuracy and fairness in transactions.
Measurement is crucial to Australia’s economy, enabling trade, fostering consumer confidence, and enhancing market access globally. It underpins industries ranging from food and beverage manufacturing to energy and health, with accurate measurements essential for regulatory compliance and commercial success.
The reforms are designed to support
Australia’s competitiveness on the world stage by modernising outdated rules and providing flexibility for new technologies.
The need for reform
Australia’s existing measurement legislation, established in 1960 under the National Measurement Act, has long supported industries by maintaining confidence in the accuracy of commercial transactions.
However, it has become clear that the legislation no longer adequately supports the introduction of new technologies or the fast-changing landscape of business practices.
The National Measurement Institute (NMI), the peak body responsible for the country’s measurement system, has emphasised that while the current
system is crucial for maintaining consumer trust, it is rigid and overly prescriptive. The proposed reforms aim to make the framework more principlesbased, flexible, and responsive to industry needs.
Key Benefits for Industry and Consumers
The new legislation is expected to bring several key benefits, particularly in areas crucial for food and beverage manufacturing, where precise measurement is paramount. For manufacturers, the reforms are designed to:
• Encourage investment in emerging technologies, making it easier for businesses to commercialise new innovations.
upport the transition to new sustainability standards, helping industries meet Australia’s ambitious 2030 emissions reduction and 2050 net-zero targets.
nsure that consumers continue to get what they pay for, reinforcing fairness in trade and boosting confidence in product accuracy.
The NMI has long overseen trade measurement laws, including the regulation of critical instruments like petrol bowsers and supermarket scales. These regulations play a vital role in ensuring that transactions are accurate and fair, benefiting both buyers and sellers.
In 2023, trade measurement transactions in Australia were estimated to be worth over $750 billion annually, underlining the importance of maintaining a reliable and transparent
One of the benefits of the new legislation will be ensuring consumers get what they pay for.
Australia’s existing measurement legislation has long supported industries by maintaining confidence in the accuracy of commercial transactions.
For food and beverage manufacturers, the changes in legislation will help address new measurement challenges posed by innovative production methods and evolving consumer demands.
As new technologies, like automated production systems and precision manufacturing, become more prevalent, having a flexible regulatory framework will allow businesses to adopt these advancements without the constraints of outdated laws.
The reforms will also provide a platform for Australian manufacturers to compete on a level playing field globally, fostering trust among international trading partners and supporting local industries in global markets.
Furthermore, the NMI’s role in maintaining measurement standards
For food and beverage manufacturers, the changes in legislation will help address new measurement challenges posed by innovative production methods and evolving consumer demands.
ensures that Australian-made products continue to be accurately measured, with traceability to the international system of units (SI).
Consultation and industry involvement
The reform process has been inclusive, with extensive public consultations held between 2017 and 2020. Feedback from stakeholders across industries helped inform the proposed changes, ensuring that the new laws will cater to the needs of a wide range of sectors.
This collaborative approach ensures that businesses, especially those in the
food and beverage sector, will benefit from a modernised framework that supports growth, innovation, and efficiency.
To further engage stakeholders, the government will release an exposure draft of the new laws for public consultation. This step ensures transparency and invites additional feedback before the reforms are finalised and implemented.
A modernised framework
The updated measurement laws are expected to support the growing needs of Australian businesses, particularly
those involved in food and beverage manufacturing, by creating a more adaptable, future-ready system. The reforms will also ensure that Australia’s economy remains competitive on the global stage, while continuing to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of trade measurements.
With these changes, the Australian Government aims to provide a stable, flexible, and future-proof regulatory environment that fosters innovation, boosts industry investment confidence, and ensures the continued reliability of the nation’s measurement system.
For food and beverage manufacturers and other industries, these reforms are a crucial step towards maintaining Australia’s strong position in global trade, while promoting growth, sustainability, and fairness in the marketplace. F
Support for spirits industry governing body
Distillers, brewers, and winemakers have thrown support behind industry reforms that help manufacturers continue to thrive in the face of tax levies.
Australian spirits manufacturers have welcomed recommendations from a federal parliamentary inquiry aimed at unlocking the industry’s $1 billion export potential.
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Resources tabled its recommendations from the Inquiry Into Food and Beverage Manufacturing in Australia last month.
Chaired by Labor MP Rob Mitchell, the bipartisan committee recommended the creation of a body called Spirits Australia, which would aim to improve regulation, support innovation, and drive export opportunities.
The committee cited the success of Wine Australia as a model for the spirit’s sector.
The report also called for increased Austrade assistance for small and medium enterprises seeking to export Australian food and beverage products to Asia.
The committee noted that 40 per cent of the submissions it received were from the alcohol industry, raising concerns over Australia’s alcohol taxation system. While no conclusions were finalised, the committee recommended the formation of a House Select Committee to further investigate all aspects of Australia’s alcohol industry.
Australian Distillers Association chief executive Paul McLeay thanked the committee for recognising the opportunities and challenges facing the spirit’s sector.
“These recommendations show that the committee acknowledges our potential to follow the example of Australian wine, which has grown into a $2.5 billion export industry through collaboration with the Federal Government,” he said.
“We call on the Government to adopt our Spirits Export Accelerator Strategy as the first step toward realising the goals of the Spirits Australia body.”
Spirits & Cocktails Australia
chief executive Greg Holland said the industry looked forward to working with the Federal Government on the report’s recommendations but emphasised the need for proper funding.
“But we must remind the Government that Spirits Australia cannot be industry-funded while we’re paying the world’s third-highest spirits’ tax. There simply isn’t room for an additional levy,” he said.
“Wine Australia was fully Government-funded in the beginning, and still receives partial funding, as the committee acknowledges in its report.
“Spirits Australia must initially be funded through a portion of the $6 billion in excise our industry pays to the Government each year.”
Despite the positive news around the potential establishment of a new industry body for the spirits sectors, Holland also criticised the Federal Government’s freeze on draught beer excise, which was
announced at the same time.
He said the freeze discriminates against spirits producers and the entire distilling supply chain.
“The tax on spirits is already three times higher than it is on beer. Freezing draught beer excise alone is discriminatory in every sense. It favours beer drinkers over spirit drinkers, brewers over distillers, and pubs over bars,” he said.
Holland added that the Federal Government had previously ignored calls from the spirits industry for sensible alcohol tax reform.
“These recommendations were supported by a bipartisan parliamentary committee in its recent report on the food and beverage manufacturing inquiry,” he said.
“Yet the Government has baulked at the alcohol tax reform it knows is desperately needed by the 700 distilleries operating across Australia, 50 per cent of them in regional areas.”
Australian Distillers Association
CEO Paul McLeay echoed Holland’s concerns, calling the Government’s freeze on draught beer excise unnecessary.
“This policy has put a dampener on last week’s announcement of a $50,000 increase to the remission,” he said.
McLeay also emphasised the spirits industry’s growth potential, including its goal of becoming a $1 billion export industry within the next decade.
“The Government has so far overlooked this economic opportunity, so we hope there are further policy announcements that will enable us to realise this potential,” he said.
McLeay thanked the Committee for recognising the spirits sector’s challenges
and opportunities and urged the Federal Government to adopt the Spirits Export Accelerator Strategy, designed to help bolster international competitiveness and create better conditions for export growth.
The ongoing debate around alcohol taxation and the freeze on draught beer excise reflects the growing concerns within the spirits sector, which is pushing for more equitable tax policies to support its expansion and international competitiveness.
However, it’s hoped the creation of Spirits Australia will go a long way toward helping the sector improve its position even more going into the future. F
A sustainable solution for Australian agriculture
A government-backed trial into the benefits of pelletised compost has given insight into how the innovation helps improve crop growth for producers.
As the impact of climate change, soil degradation, and rising costs continue to weigh on Australian farmers, new methods to sustain and improve agricultural practices are crucial for the industry. One such solution gaining
momentum is pelletised compost, a refined version of traditional compost designed to enhance soil health, boost crop yields, and contribute to sustainable farming.
Pelletised compost is made from organic materials such as plant matter,
manure, and food scraps, which are decomposed into nutrient-rich compost and then compressed into small, uniform pellets. This process makes the compost easier to handle, store, and apply to crops.
Unlike traditional compost,
which is often bulky and moistureheavy, pelletised compost is dry, more concentrated, and compact, making it more efficient for farmers to work with.
As a result, the key benefits of pelletised compost go beyond its ease of application.
Unlike traditional compost, which is often bulky and moisture-heavy, pelletised compost is dry and more concentrated.
By improving soil structure, pelletised compost also enhances aeration and promotes root penetration, which is especially helpful for compacted soils where root growth can be stunted.
It also helps balance water retention in sandy soils and improves drainage in heavier soils, creating more favourable conditions for crop growth.
Unlike synthetic fertilisers, which provide a quick nutrient boost but can degrade soil quality over time, pelletised compost releases nutrients slowly. This gradual release ensures that crops receive a steady supply of essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium throughout the growing season.
As a result, nutrient imbalances and deficiencies are reduced, and plants can grow more healthily and consistently. Pelletised compost also reduces the need for synthetic chemical fertilisers, which are not only costly but can also harm the soil ecosystem and pollute waterways.
By providing nutrients naturally, pelletised compost aligns with Australia’s broader goals of reducing the environmental impact of farming and promoting regenerative agricultural practices.
For organic farmers, this compost offers a viable alternative to synthetic chemicals, which are prohibited in organic farming systems. Pelletised compost enhances soil fertility without relying on artificial inputs, making it a suitable solution for organic operations looking to maintain soil health and promote biodiversity.
One of the advantages of pelletised compost is its ability to support healthy soil ecosystems. The organic material it introduces helps foster beneficial
microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and earthworms, which break down organic matter and make nutrients more accessible to plants.
This contributes to the development of a more resilient and fertile soil, capable of withstanding the pressures of intensive farming.
The compost plays a crucial role in mitigating soil erosion, a serious concern for many Australian farmers. The organic matter in the compost binds soil particles together, reducing the risk of erosion caused by wind or heavy rainfall.
As Australian farming becomes increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of extreme weather, reducing erosion is a critical step in maintaining soil integrity and preventing the loss of valuable topsoil.
Pelletised compost trial
A practical example of the benefits of pelletised compost can be seen on the property of Tim Mendham, a thirdgeneration farmer from Blayney, New South Wales. Mendham, who has been farming in the cold high country of Blayney for nearly 18 years, has long prioritised improving the health of his soil.
For years, he relied on a mix of synthetic fertilisers and organic inputs to restore carbon and organic matter to his soils. However, traditional compost, which sits on top of the soil and depends on rain to break down, wasn’t always the most efficient option for him.
“Healthy soil is our top priority,” said Mendham. “We’ve always tried to get more organic matter back into our soils, especially since we rely on hay, silage, and cattle production. But with regular compost, it sits on top of the soil and relies on rain, which isn’t always reliable.”
Mendham was introduced to pelletised compost through a trial supported by the Federal Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
The trial on Mendham’s farm involved applying four different rates of pelletised compost directly with the seed during planting. The results were striking. After harvesting, Mendham observed a significant difference in crop yields.
The areas treated with higher rates of pelletised compost showed noticeable improvements in yield compared to the untreated sections.
“We were able to sow the pelletised compost right with the seed, which
allowed it to sit directly next to the seed instead of just sitting on top of the soil,” he said. “The compost slowly released nutrients throughout the growing season, and the yields were definitely higher where compost had been applied.”
While Mendham’s farm typically uses around 13 tonnes of traditional compost per hectare, only 100 kilograms per hectare of pelletised compost was needed for the trial. This reduction in material use not only saved on handling and storage costs, but also made the application process quicker and more efficient.
“The pelletised compost is lighter and easier to spread, meaning we spent less time on the tractor and reduced movement across the paddocks,” said Mendham. “This allowed us to complete the job faster, with less wear and tear on our equipment.”
Beyond the improvements in soil health and crop yields, the financial benefits of pelletised compost have been equally evident.
While the cost per hectare of using pelletised compost may increase by around $50 compared to traditional methods, the resulting increase in yields has translated into higher profits.
“When you see such a big difference in yield, you realise the cost of using pelletised compost is minimal compared to the return,” said Mendham. “It saves us time and money while improving the efficiency of our operations.”
For farmers like Mendham, using such compost is a step towards a more sustainable and profitable future. As the demand for more sustainable farming solutions grows, pelletised compost offers a practical, costeffective way to improve soil health and productivity.
A sustainable future
Mendham ‘s success with this compost is an example of its potential to positively impact Australian farming practices. With its ability to improve soil health, enhance crop yields, and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers, this method offers a sustainable alternative that meets the demands of modern agriculture.
In the face of climate change, soil degradation, and increasing production costs, innovative solutions like this provide a sustainable way forward. Its benefits extend beyond individual farms, contributing to the broader goals of environmental stewardship and longterm agricultural sustainability.
Image: Australian Government
Tim Mendham (left) was introduced to pelletised compost through a trial supported by the Federal Government.
Due to several factors, the dairy sector has experienced challenges and windfalls in recent months.
Dairy industry overcoming challenges
The global dairy market is experiencing changing conditions as major regions contend with supply issues, price volatility, and shifting trade dynamics.
EU milk supplies continue to face challenges, with disease impacting cow numbers and restricting milk growth. While conditions are generally favourable in some regions and margins remain solid, output is still struggling to build at the necessary pace.
Despite the usual seasonal uptick in milk production, it is becoming increasingly unlikely that milk supplies
will grow year-on-year through the spring flush. Prices for fat and cheese have firmed once again, but the outlook remains uncertain. The market’s performance will heavily depend on spring pasture conditions, which will influence commodity output in certain regions.
In New Zealand, late-season milk output is also under pressure, primarily due to ongoing drought conditions.
However, this is not expected to cause any disruption to product supplies. Demand for high-protein products has helped mitigate the impact of a fragile Skim Milk Powder (SMP) market.
In contrast, abundant Anhydrous Milk Fat (AMF) is expected to gain traction, although it will likely be sold at a considerable discount to butter in developing markets.
In the United States, the market
is facing a glut of butterfat, which is exacerbating an already fragile cheese market as new plant capacity continues to come online.
While limits on young cattle will likely constrain milk growth in the first half of 2025, increased output from new plant capacity is expected to contribute to ongoing volatility in the cheese market. The success of cheese trade with key contested markets will be critical
for both U.S. and EU producers moving forward.
In China, there are a few early signs of a rebalancing within the milk supply chain, mostly attributed to weaker milk output. However, any meaningful growth in the demand for UHT milk and ingredients has yet to materialise.
In Australia, milk output continues to slow in the southern regions.
The situation worsened in January due to dry conditions, and these challenges are expected to persist, given the current climate outlook. As a result, the full-season outlook for Australian milk has been revised downward, now forecasted to decrease by 0.3 per cent in milk solids, with a sharper 2.3 per cent decline expected in the first half of 2025.
This suggests the likelihood of increased farm exits during the first half of 2025.
In late February 2025, several companies raised their milk prices, which has contributed to keeping milk values favourable. The outlook for milk prices in the 2025-26 season is beginning to come into focus, with
projections indicating a price range of $9.00 to $9.40 per kilogram of milk solids, based on the anticipated product value trends.
On the trade front, Australian dairy exports continue to grow, with a 27.5 per cent year-on-year increase in December. Exports have risen every month since December 2023, reflecting ongoing demand for Australian dairy products.
A good example of the increase in export in December was the announcement that Australia had made a bilateral trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with high hopes it’ll lead to an uptick in exports to the region.
The Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC), supported the push for a trade agreement with the UAE.
“Today’s announcement by the Minister for Trade, Don Farrell, represents a strong opportunity in an important export market for Australian dairy,” said ADIC Chair, Ben Bennett.
“We congratulate Minister Farrell on the announcement, which we hope leads to improved market access
for our dairy product.
“We understand this agreement will mean more agreeable trading conditions between the two countries and look forward to seeing the detail on what that looks like for dairy.”
ADIC deputy chair, John Williams, said the UAE was Australia’s largest trade and investment partner in the Middle East.
“Through the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Australia gains an advantage in trade with the major players in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries,” he said.
“The GCC countries collectively import approximately 900,000 tonnes of dairy product annually.
“As a combined market it’s one of the largest dairy import markets globally, roughly equivalent in size to large economies like the United Kingdom.”
“Australia is a relatively minor supplier of dairy products to the GCC region, though this has not always been the case. This agreement is bound to help Australian dairy’s competitiveness.” F
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
• EU Milk Supply Under Pressure: Disease limits cow numbers, keeping growth constrained despite favourable conditions in some regions
• NZ Faces Late-Season Drought: While milk output is tightening, strong high-protein demand is easing exposure to a fragile SMP market
• US Butterfat Glut & Cheese Volatility: Increased cheese plant capacity is adding pressure to the fragile market, making contested export markets crucial
• China’s Dairy Demand Uncertain: Weak milk production suggests a supply shift, but growth in UHT milk and ingredient demand has yet to emerge
• Australian Market Outlook: Southern regions continue to slow due to dry conditions, while exports surge, up 27.5 per cent YOY in December.
In late February 2025, several companies raised milk prices, which has contributed to keeping milk values favourable.
Overseas opportunities for Australian grains and oilseeds
Australian grain and oilseed growers are being encouraged to capitalise on the growing consumer base in Asia.
Anew Rabobank report has highlighted South and SouthEast Asia’s expanding consumer base as a key driver of food demand, presenting a host of opportunities for Australian grain and oilseed exports.
The report, titled Unlocking Opportunities: Australian Grains and Oilseeds Exports to South and SouthEast Asia, published by Rabobank’s RaboResearch division, notes that a decline in Chinese grain and oilseed imports, combined with rising geopolitical tensions, may shift focus to Asia as crucial markets for Australian exports.
“A shift towards western diets in many South and South-East Asian nations – which includes more meat, dairy, eggs, and processed food – is driving demand,” the report states.
“And this demand will be met partly by boosting local animal protein production and partly through imports, providing an opportunity for increased Australian feed grain exports to the region.”
Wheat and feed grain imports in the Asia region are expected to grow steadily, driven by population growth, and expanding GDP.
Vitor Pistoia, the report’s author and grains and oilseeds analyst at Rabobank, pointed to Australia’s geographic proximity as a key competitive edge that other exporters lack.
According to Pistoia, wheat and feed grain imports in the region are expected to grow steadily, driven by population growth, and an expanding GDP.
“While malt barley exports to South and South-East Asian nations will continue to face fierce competition, due to a favourable global supply, pulses have strong growth potential. Albeit having to factor in the uncertainties of India’s harvests and import duties, which are often influenced by seasonality, as has been seen in recent years,” he said.
Pistoia also noted that changes in global trade, particularly shifts in US policy, could influence trade dynamics going forward.
“South and South-East Asian countries generally have positive trade balances with the USA and many western countries, but negative balances with China and Australia,” said Pistoia.
“Any trade wars could reduce buying power in countries in South and South-East Asia, indirectly affecting Australian farm-gate prices, as there is the possibility consumption growth there might slow,” he said.
Wheat opportunities
Wheat demand in the region is shaped by a mix of local factors, with some countries nearing self-sufficiency and others relying heavily on imports.
The region’s wheat consumption dynamics can be divided into two groups: those nations nearing selfsufficiency and those reliant on imports, said Pistoia.
Countries like India, Nepal, and Pakistan are in the self-sufficient category, though Pistoia flagged India as a potentially major importer.
“If India enters the international wheat market as an importer, it can create major opportunities for Australian exporters due to its enormous demand,” he said.
“In times of shortage and high local
prices, India may remove import duties, as seen in 2016, potentially lifting global wheat prices.”
Meanwhile, nations that rely on wheat imports, such as Bangladesh, only produce around 20 per cent of their own needs.
“In this set of wheat-importing nations, apart from in Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore, wheat consumption positively correlates with per capita GDP growth, that is,
economic growth equates to growing demand for wheat,” said Pistoia.
Pistoia pointed out that import regulations also play a role, citing Indonesia’s annual import quotas for feed grains and the higher taxes placed on them compared to food grains.
“Feed grains usually have higher import taxes applied by importing nations – aimed at supporting local production – providing a larger market for local feed grains, and thus better prices for local farmers,” he said.
Wheat consumption in the region is expected to grow as GDP per capita increases. Pistoia added that Australia’s tailored research into specific grain varieties, such as those for Udon-style noodles, could position Australian exporters well.
From 2019 to 2023, South and
South-East Asia accounted for 47 per cent of Australia’s wheat exports.
For Australian producers, wheat price competitiveness and import regulations will be key to determining future demand in the region.
Pulse Outlook
The region is a major producer and consumer of pulses, but demand still relies heavily on imports, particularly lentils and chickpeas.
From 2019 to 2023, chickpeas and lentils made up 84 per cent and 83 per cent, respectively, of Australian pulse exports to South and South-East Asia, with markets such as Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka the key importers.
“Pulses have grown to become an important crop in many Australian
grain growers’ crop rotations, and this surge in production is expected to continue, based on the profitability of these export markets,” said Pistoia.
However, he warned that currency volatility and unpredictable climatic conditions could present challenges in these markets.
Barley and malt exports
The region’s consumption of beer and other alcoholic beverages remains relatively low due to cultural practices and government regulation, limiting demand for malt barley.
“However, as western diets become more prevalent in South and South-East Asian societies, beer market growth is expected,” said Pistoia.
Australian barley and malt barley exporters will need to remain competitive
on price, with global overcapacity in malt production and declining beer consumption in traditional markets increasing cost pressures.
“The current global overcapacity in malt production and declining beer consumption in (Northern Hemisphere) countries, which lead the way in beer consumption, is intensifying cost competition,” said Pistoia.
Oilseeds
While Australia’s canola exports to South and South-East Asia remain small – representing just 11 per cent of total exports from 2019 to 2023 - the report notes the dominance of palm oil production in the region as a limiting factor. Pistoia explained that the region’s vast palm oil industry leaves only niche opportunities for other oilseeds. F
Australian barley and malt barley exporters will need to remain competitive on price.
Agriculture sector dodges tariff heartache
The Unites States’ trade surplus with Australia has so far helped Australian food and agriculture exports avoid the negative impacts of a new wave of US tariffs.
Rabobank has detailed how the agriculture sector has so far been able to avoid tariff pitfalls on exported produce, thanks in large part to the Unites States’ trade surplus with Australia.
In the report, titled The impact of US tariffs on global food and agribusiness, Rabobank researchers concluded Australia’s position as a key trading partner leans more in favour of the Unites States.
The report takes a deep dive into the string of new trade tariffs announced by President Trump during his first weeks in office, and the potential
impact on global food trade.
The report identified nine waves of ‘economical and geopolitical measures’ that have been imposed or are in the process of being implemented:
• Colombia – significant impacts for US imports of cut flowers and coffee.
• Mexico and Canada – 25 per cent tariffs on most goods, along with a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian energy imports. Could heavily impact energy sector and agricultural supply in North America, increasing costs
• China – a 10 per cent tariff imposed on Chinese goods. Retaliatory measures from China have been
Rabobank took a deep dive into the impact the latest US tariffs are having on producers, and how Australian producers have managed to dodge negative impacts.
put in place, but do not yet affect major US agricultural exports like soybeans.
• U kraine – to ensure continued financial and military support, a US-Ukraine deal that would give the US access to Ukraine’s vast supplies of rare earths including lithium is in the final stages.
• Panama Canal – President Trump has expressed a desire to take back control of the canal, a crucial shipping route for US trade. This could have significant implications for global maritime agricultural trade
• Europe – the EU may face US tariffs on products, including machinery and pharmaceuticals as well as spirits,
wine and agricultural goods.
• US Agency for Development (USAID) – funding cuts have impacts for agriculture, with the agency, which administers foreign aid and development assistance, having purchased USD $2 billion in US-grown crops in 2024.
• Steel and aluminium tariffs –increased US tariffs on steel and aluminium may disrupt supply and increase packaging costs for food and beverage manufacturers.
“President Trump has stated many times that he is especially targeting countries with whom the US holds a heavy trade deficit,” said Vogel.
“China and Mexico are top on that list, but Canada also makes the list of the top 10 countries with whom the US has a trade deficit.
“EU countries also make up a large share as do various Asian economies.”
Australia holds a more favourable trade balance with the United States regarding potential tariff risks
However, the US remains a key market for Australian agricultural exports, including beef, lamb, and wine, the report states.
“Australia’s beef sector has seen the US emerge as its largest buyer in recent months,” said Vogel.
“US tariffs would hurt this trade flow, which accounted for approximately 30 per cent of all Australian beef exports in 2024, the equivalent of 23 per cent of Australia’s beef production, while 23 per
cent of US beef imports were supplied by Australia.
“This made Australia, together with Canada the largest beef exporters to the US, well ahead of Mexico, Brazil, and New Zealand.”
As well as the level of beef export,
almost a quarter of all sheep meat exports out of Australia were into the US market.
According to data from Rural Bank, in 2023-24, Australia’s agricultural exports to the United States were valued at $6.8 billion, which was a notable
increase from the previous year (+21.2 per cent).
This was largely backed by a rise in beef, lamb, dairy, and wine exports.
Meanwhile, Australia’s next 11 largest export markets all recorded yearon-year declines in value.
However, China remained Australia’s largest export market in 2023-24, building on the record set the previous year.
Exports to China rose by $331 million (2.0%) to $16.9 billion, following a $3 billion (22.4 per cent) increase in 2022-23.
China accounted for 23.3 per cent of Australia’s total agricultural export value, the highest share since 2019-20.
The increase was primarily driven by the return of barley exports, which surged from zero in 2022-23 to $2.3 billion, making up 69.8 per cent of Australia’s total barley exports.
Cotton and wine exports to China also saw significant gains, increasing by $920.9 million and $376.5 million, respectively.
However, most other major commodities experienced declines in export value to China, with cattle, dairy, and sheep meat seeing the biggest drops.
It’s hoped the agriculture sector will continue to avoid the pitfalls of the current United States tariffs throughout 2025. F
Wine exports to China saw gains after the lifting of tariffs on Australian wine.
Australia’s beef sector has seen the US emerge as its largest buyer in recent months.
Testing viability of alternative packaging
Several key winemakers will undergo a feasibility study to uncover the best alternative packaging options to replace glass bottles.
Six companies have been awarded Federal Government grants to test innovative packaging solutions for premium Australian wine as the sector works towards its emissions reduction targets.
The grants are part of the Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII) – Renewables and Low Emissions Round, which is managed by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources.
The BRII is an innovation program aimed at funding startups and SMEs to develop new technologies.
BRII plays a crucial role in enhancing the innovation capacity of startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and government agencies.
By providing targeted support, it helps these organisations improve their ability to bring innovative ideas to life and navigate complex challenges. Additionally, BRII boosts their capacity to access both national
stronger relationships and better collaboration.
Furthermore, BRII promotes government agencies’ use of innovative solutions, encouraging them to embrace new approaches that can improve
The best solutions are awarded feasibility grants of up to $100,000, providing grantees with the resources to test the technical and commercial viability of their ideas over a three-month period.
and international markets, creating greater opportunities for growth and expansion.
The program also increases SMEs’ confidence and understanding when engaging with government, fostering
public policy and service delivery.
BRII operates in three distinct phases. The first phase, challenge identification, involves Australian Government agencies identifying specific public policy or service delivery
challenges that require innovative solutions. In the second phase, feasibility grants, startups and SMEs submit proposals to address these challenges.
The best solutions are awarded feasibility grants of up to $100,000, providing grantees with the resources to test the technical and commercial viability of their ideas over a threemonth period.
The third phase, proof of concept grants, allows successful grantees to apply for larger grants of up to $1 million.
These grants are designed to help them develop prototypes of their solutions, bringing their ideas one step closer to implementation.
Each round of funding targets
different public policy or service delivery challenges and Federal Government agencies support the program to foster the development of new-to-market technologies they can potentially procure.
Alternative packaging for premium wine was one of three challenges put forward in the Renewables and Low Emissions Round.
The six recipients of the grants and their proposed solutions are:
• Margaret River Winery: Development of a compostable, food-grade polymer made from waste grape marc will be used to create a standard-sized, rigid-walled wine bottle that replicates the quality features of traditional glass bottles. Additionally, a mini bottle will be developed as an alternative to the current PET mini bottles used for inflight service, outdoor events, and single servings of wine. This will enable testing of the wine in the prototype packaging and allow for the evaluation of quality parameters in comparison to control samples in glass bottles of the same volume, shape, and colour.
• Dr AHA Data and AI Technology: This project aims to reduce carbon
emissions in the wine industry using an AI system designed to manage defects in wine bottle production. Glass bottle manufacturing and transport account for 70 per cent of the sector’s carbon emissions,
primarily due to the weight of the bottles. While lightweighting offers a potential solution, thinning the glass increases the risk of failure (over 10 per cent). By improving defect management during production,
the project will help manufacturers produce high-quality, lightweight bottles and lower carbon emissions. Recent advancements in AI provide enhanced defect detection and management, making the project a
Targetted support is being offered to find alternatives to glass wine bottles.
Making a light weight glass bottle helps reduce carbon emissions.
viable opportunity for innovation.
• D elivering Happiness International: The company is working to improve its 100 per cent recycled PET eco-flat bottle by researching and developing a premium bottle design. The new bottle will be heavier, thicker, and feature an advanced oxygen barrier and UV light protection. This initiative aims to address the limited shelf life of the current PET bottle, ensuring that Australian wine can age in a more sustainable packaging solution.
• W ine One: The EcoSteel Wine Bottle project aims to transform the Australian wine industry with the introduction of stainless-steel bottles. The project focuses on developing standardised, shapeoptimised, single-walled stainless steel wine bottles that could reduce emissions by up to 74 per cent while ensuring better preservation of wine quality. Key objectives
include finalising the bottle design, optimising costs, conducting lifecycle analysis, consumer testing, and assessing the feasibility of domestic manufacturing
• Bravu: Bravu Pty Ltd will develop a soft plastic pouch designed to carry and preserve the quality of Australian wines, with a structure compatible with current Australian soft plastic recycling facilities. In collaboration with manufacturing and recycling partners, the company aims to create a sustainable, scalable product. The project will involve developing packaging and testing its impact on the quality of Australian wines
• Ph antm: The project will assess the feasibility of using PHA, a
natural polymer, for premium wine packaging. Phantm will research the material properties, design considerations, and environmental impacts to lay the foundation for future manufacturing. The goal is to develop a low-emissions, compostable PHA formulation that can effectively store premium wine. The technical and commercial feasibility of these solutions will be tested over three months.
Recipients who successfully demonstrate their solutions may be invited to apply for further grants to develop a proof of concept and prototype.
The manufacture of wine packaging and the transport of packaged wine account for around 70 per cent of the
The manufacture of wine packaging and the transport of packaged wine account for around 70 per cent of the Australian wine industry’s carbon emissions with heavy glass bottles being the main contributor.
Australian wine industry’s carbon emissions with heavy glass bottles being the main contributor.
Dr Martin Cole, Wine Australia chief executive officer, said the Australian grape and wine sector aims to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with a 42 per cent reduction by 2030.
“Although the current alternatives to heavy glass bottles, such as lightweight glass bottles, bag-in-box, aluminium cans and PET plastic produce lower emissions, the best innovations in sustainable packaging are yet to come,” he said.
“Wine Australia would like the Australian wine sector to be at the forefront of these developments.
“Wine Australia thanks the Australian Government for funding the feasibility phase of these six potential alternatives to heavy glass bottles. Innovative products such as these are critical to the grape and wine sector achieving its net zero goal.” F
Further grants are on offer for those who develop a proof of concept and prototypes.
The Australasian Packaging Conference is the Australasian Institute of Packaging’s flagship event.
Author Nerida Kelton MAIP, Executive Director – AIP, Vice President – Sustainability & Save Food - WPO
Erly Bird registrations are Conference, which is coordinated by the Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP), and is open to all packaging professional across Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia.
As the pinnacle educational event for packaging professionals for more than three decades, the 2025 Australasian Packaging Conference will be held on May 7-8, 2025 at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, New South Wales, Australia.
The 2025 edition has been designed to provide an expansive range of plenary sessions, panel discussions and concurrent breakout sessions with over 70 speakers and leading experts in their field covering a broad range of topics relating to the theme ‘Reimagine Packaging Design’.
With the industry in Australia and New Zealand starting to review how packaging can meet the founding principles of the 2025 National Packaging Targets, but also be designready and recycle-ready to meet the in-coming Mandated National Packaging Design Standards, this conference will discuss the current and future state for packaging design in the region.
This conference will create the opportunity to discuss the path forward for the industry as a whole, and also the design roadmap that will help to create a circular economy for packaging for both Australia and New Zealand food and beverage industries that rely on packaging to keep their products fresh.
Key topics will include:
• Moving packaging design towards and beyond 2030.
• Preparing your packaging design for
The Australasian Packaging Conference will discuss the future state of packaging design.
Extended Producer Responsibility looking at global best practice such as PPWR.
• L ooking at eco modulation for kerbside collection and the flow on for new design standards.
• T he in-coming Mandated National Packaging Design Standards and why you need to be ready.
• T he shift towards mono materials.
• T he reduction of chemicals of concern within packaging such as PFAS.
• T he elimination of PVC, PVDC, PETG, oxo degradable, landfilldegradable materials in packaging.
• I ncreasing the use of recycled content in your packaging and why this is important for the circular economy.
• R educing evidence-based problematic and unnecessary packaging.
• Avoidance and Reduction of all packaging (primary, secondary and tertiary).
• Emptiability of the pack and ensuring no product waste through
intuitive packaging design.
• R eduction of the weight of packaging without impacting product protection or shelf life.
• R eduction of materials that are seen as contaminants to recycling systems in Australia & New Zealand.
• Plastics packaging to be recyclable through kerbside collection, alternate pathways such as the Soft Plastics Stewardship Australia/Curby or chemical/advanced recycling.
• T he ability for the packaging to be recycled or reprocessed in Australia and/or New Zealand.
• I mplementation and expansion of models for reusable packaging (primary, secondary and tertiary).
• Understanding Materials Recovery Facilities and how they link to design.
• Consistent on-pack labelling for consumers and best practice consumer education campaigns from across the globe. The conference will also discuss
future pathways in Australia and New Zealand for Chemical & Advanced Recycling, soft plastics recycling, container deposit schemes, single use plastic regulations, alternate pathways and collection programs for non-kerbside recyclable packaging.
The annual prestigious Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) Awards will also be held as a part of the conference on the 6th of May.
All conference delegates will receive a complimentary ticket to the gala awards dinner.
The two-day Australasian Packaging Conference will attain a high amount of Certified Packaging Development (CPD) points towards the Certified Packaging Professional designation.
With concurrent sessions being held during the two-days the AIP recommends that you look at booking a number of your team to attend. Group discounts are available. F
Melbourne International Coffee Expo returns
Sensor designed to measure dew point temperature in compressed air systems
Emerson has launched its AVENTICS DS1 dew point sensor, designed to monitor dew point, temperature, humidity, and the quality of compressed air and other non-corrosive gases in real time. The DS1 is the only industrial sensor capable of tracking these parameters from a single unit. It helps operators detect and manage excess moisture early, preventing potential damage to equipment.
The Aventics DS1 Pressure Dew Point Sensor is a highly reliable and precise instrument designed to measure the dew point temperature in compressed air systems. This sensor plays a crucial role in ensuring the air quality within pneumatic systems by detecting the moisture content. By providing accurate and real-time data, the DS1 helps in preventing moisture-related issues such as corrosion, freezing, and malfunctioning of equipment. Its compact design and easy integration into existing systems make it an ideal choice for maintaining optimal performance and longevity of pneumatic components. The Aventics DS1 is essential for applications requiring stringent air quality standards, helping to enhance overall system efficiency and product quality.
Key features:
• Ideal for all types of compressed air dryers with different measuring ranges such as -80...+20°Ctd; -20...+50°Ctd
• Condensation-resistant sensor element
• Long-term stability and drift-resistant
• Gas-independent measurement, also suitable for other, non-corrosive gases
• Fast adjustment time, especially in the event of moisture ingress
• Protection class IP 65
• Analog output 4...20 mA and Modbus RTU (RS 485) interface
• Modbus TCP PoE (Ethernet)
• Measured values available in various units, pressure dew point [°Ctd], temperature [°C], rel. humidity [%rh], abs. humidity [g/m³], degree of humidity [g/kg], moisture content V/V [ppmV/V], water vapor partial pressure [hPa], atmospheric dew point [°Ctd.atm]
Emerson 61 3 9721 0200
www.emerson.com
How NORD solutions intelligently control movements
When it comes to bottling liquid food products, speed is an essential factor. NORD frequency inverters ideally meet the great demands on precise speed control. They thus ensure an optimally balanced production process. Furthermore, for example, the NORDAC PRO control cabinet inverter can be integrated via Ethernet. It thereby allows for the remote maintenance of the system. Online tools can thus be used to check components for errors and to evaluate any recorded data of the frequency inverter. This way, NORD ensures high system reliability. Drive solutions from NORD also take effect when it comes to precise positioning tasks. Here, the company offers its integrated POSICON module, which, for example, is contained in frequency inverters such as NORDAC PRO. It allows automatic positioning control for different applications such as travelling theatre sceneries for trouble-free theatre performances.
Solution provider NORD DRIVESYSTEMS develops and manufactures application-specific drive systems from a single source. For that, the company is using its industry expertise with which it supports customers in about 100 industries. The extensive range of modular products consisting of gear units, motors and electronic drive technology forms the basis for the implementation of solutions. The components can be assembled in a modular and optimally matched manner to create customised systems. 1/3 The field of drive technology is the newest one of NORD DRIVESYSTEMS, which will celebrate its 60th anniversary next year. Since the beginning of the 1980s, the company has been developing and manufacturing the NORD portfolio for electronic drive control at its site in Northern German Aurich. This comprises the frequency inverters for control cabinet installation, decentralised frequency inverters and motor starters.
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