A growing Geelong food manufacturer will expand and create 26 new jobs thanks to an injection from the Geelong Industry Fund.
Premier Denis Napthine said Farm Foods Retail Services would receive $215,000 to support a $650,000 manufacturing production line project.
Farm Foods Retail Services is a manufacturer of gourmet fresh meat products including sausages and burgers, for large retailers and food distributors.
The company has grown from a chain of gourmet delicatessens across Geelong to become one of the largest value-adding meat plants in the country.
“Funding will help Farm Foods Retail Services create two new manufacturing production lines, which will enhance its export potential,” Dr Napthine said.
“It will also allow Farm Foods Retail Services to introduce portion control and extend product shelf life using innovative technology and packaging systems.
“I can also announce that Farms Foods will be joining the Coalition Government’s Super Trade Mission to South East Asia in June this year.
“They see this as a great opportunity to leverage export opportunities and further expand their business,” Dr Napthine said.
The $4 million Greater Geelong Industry Fund is part of the State Government’s $15 million Geelong Development Fund.
Grants of up to $250,000 must be matched by a minimum co-contribution two dollars for every one dollar granted.
Farm Foods Retail Services expects the project to be completed by mid-2015.
City of Greater Geelong Mayor Cr Keith Fagg welcomed the funding for the Breakwater based business.
“Geelong has a long history in manufacturing. I think it is very important that we retain and build on our ability to make things – it’s important not just for local jobs but for Australia’s long term trade interests.”
Cr Fagg said the Farm Foods grant was the second allocation to Geelong from the Greater Geelong Industry Fund, the first being $180,000 to IXL Metal Castings in April.
