• Fresh off the back of AUSPACK and AltProteins22, all systems are go with the arrival of our May issue. We turn our attention to the organics and naturals sector, fresh and chilled products, and plant design and fitout as well as all our regular features on the food and beverage sector.
    Fresh off the back of AUSPACK and AltProteins22, all systems are go with the arrival of our May issue. We turn our attention to the organics and naturals sector, fresh and chilled products, and plant design and fitout as well as all our regular features on the food and beverage sector.
  • From making stocks for her family, Loredana De Simone has built premium organic brand San Elk.
    From making stocks for her family, Loredana De Simone has built premium organic brand San Elk.
  • CEO of industry body Australian Organics Limited, Niki Ford.
    CEO of industry body Australian Organics Limited, Niki Ford.
  • Steric founder Bill Brownie and his son, now CEO, Richard Brownie.
    Steric founder Bill Brownie and his son, now CEO, Richard Brownie.
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Freshly back in the office following a whirlwind week of AUSPACK and AltProteins22, all systems are go with the arrival of our May issue. Special features this month include the organics and naturals sector, fresh and chilled products, and plant design and fitout, along with news, profiles, and insights on the food and beverage sector.

EDITOR’S PICKS

Steric founder Bill Brownie and his son, now CEO, Richard Brownie.

What’s in a label

Steric was a trailblazer of private label manufacturing when it began in the 70s. We talk to the second-generation CEO Richard Brownie about how the industry has matured over the decades as the company remains one of the country’s leading specialist producers as well as maintaining its own brands. That’s on page 12.

Setting the standard

CEO of industry body Australian Organics Limited Niki Ford explains how the certified organic industry – worth more than $2 billion to the national economy – is having the most significant discussion regarding regulation since the National Standard was established 20 years ago.

From making stocks for her family, Loredana De Simone has built premium organic brand San Elk.
From making stocks for her family, Loredana De Simone has built premium organic brand San Elk.

Down the organics aisle

With the Naturally Good expo approaching on 6-7 June, Fleur Michell provides an overview of some of the organic businesses that will be on show. From stocks to sauces, chickens to chocolate, our organics industry is thriving. (On page 20.)

Cracking the carbon nut

Macadamia plantation Hinkler Park has revolutionised its farming practices to significantly reduce its carbon emissions while improving the soil health and crop yield. It has been a seven-year project with comprehensive programs and initiatives that have delivered impressive outcomes. For all the details see page 24.  

To upgrade or expand?

On page 36, RMR Process director Peter Taitoko puts forward the case that it is time to rethink the traditional ‘build a bigger factory’ mindset with one that focuses on smarter and more effective scaling solutions.

This month’s features

Organics & Naturals – page 20

Fresh & Chilled – page 30

Plant Design & Fitout – page 36

 

 

 

Packaging News

Close the Loop Group has reported a downturn in its FY25 results, with revenue, earnings and margins impacted by shifts in product mix. A strategic reset underway promises to lift FY26 performance.

RollsPack was a standout performer at the 2025 FPLMA Print Awards, securing a sweep of gold and silver accolades, as well as the coveted Best in Show and the Innovation Award.

While UN negotiations to deliver a legally binding plastics treaty have ended in deadlock, Australia remains aligned with the High Ambition Coalition and is progressing domestic efforts on plastics recycling infrastructure and circular economy policy – though decisive action on packaging reform remains stalled.