Western Australian food manufacturer and market leader D’Orsogna Limited has commenced production at its $66 million state-of-the-art facility in Victoria.
The 70 year old Perth-based business, which produces a range of cured and cooked hams, bacon and sausages for Woolworths, Coles and Metcash, officially opened the facility last week at Merrifield Business Park, north of Melbourne.
“We’ve taken a measured approach to such a substantial investment after establishing a modest footprint in Victoria 10 years ago at Mt Waverley. The new Merrifield production facility will secure the future of the D’Orsogna business,” D’Orsogna managing director, Greig Smith, said at the opening.
The new facility includes the latest energy and water conservation technology to ensure sustainable and efficient processes. A 8500 square metre solar rooftop powers a one megawatt system that will reduce operational costs and carbon emissions on site.
D’Orsogna chairman, Tony Iannello, said that the new Victorian facility will double D’Orsogna’s production capacity and generate development opportunities for its extensive range of innovative ham, bacon and other meat protein products.
“Proximity to major markets, streamlined manufacturing processes and state-of-the art equipment, all supported by well trained staff, a committed management and board and supportive customers should ensure its success,” Iannello said.
“Productivity per square metre of floor space will be leading edge, allowing us to be competitive and satisfy growing consumer demand for fresh, conveniently packaged, modern meat protein products.”
Iannello said D’Orsogna chose Victoria for its competitive operating environment, reputation in foods, access to key transport infrastructure and rapidly growing local and export markets.
The facility will employ 200 people, bolstering the business which already employs 550 people in Western Australia.
