Simplot will invest $105 million to upgrade its Bathurst output, including $65 million to expand its factory and $40 million to acquire farmland in the Central West region of NSW.
According to the company, the investment will include the installation of new vegetable processing equipment, and “transform the Bathurst site into a frozen vegetable centre of excellence,” said Graham Dugdale, MD at Simplot.
The increased production capacity will boost both local and export volumes, he said.
As the last major producer of Australian-grown, frozen and shelf-stable vegetables in the country, the investment will ensure the company has “secure and reliable access to corn volumes to meet increased production capacity” at Bathurst and meet the ongoing needs of its customers,” Dugdale added.
“Our customers and consumers value Australian sourced, grown and processed food. There is a real understanding that Australian grown and produced food represents high-quality standards. We are delighted that we are continuing to invest and support our customers, Australian farmers, communities and businesses.”
The Bathurst site upgrade is expected to be completed in 2024.
