Marquis Macadamias will expand its Bundaberg facility and increase its processing capacity by 25 per cent, with support from the Queensland Government’s $175 million Jobs and Regional Growth Fund.
The $13.3 million expansion will also create an additional 40 jobs at the world’s largest macadamia processor, which will take its processing capacity from 12,000 to 15,000 tonnes annually.
“As part of the expansion, Marquis will build a new cold storage warehouse, specialised bulk drying and packing facilities, and a solar farm to generate power for their operations,” Treasurer and Minister for Investment Cameron Dick said.
“This doesn’t just help Marquis Macadamias either, it’s of benefit to the hundreds of Aussie growers who Marquis work with to get supply.”
The vertically integrated site includes all growing, processing and wholesaling operations for Marquis Macadamias in Bundaberg, as the company sources crop from 180 shareholding growers and 170 non-shareholder growers from across Australia.
“With our facility currently operating at close to maximum capacity, this project will mean we’re ready to support future demands and grow and create long-term, stable jobs in Bundaberg,” said Marquis Macadamias CEO Larry McHugh.
The consolidated and rebranded grower-owned launched in February 2020, becoming the world’s largest macadamia processor and marketer. It grows, processes and sells 48 per cent of Australia’s macadamia production and be responsible for 22 per cent of global kernel sales. It also handles more than 16 per cent of nut in shell (NIS) world production.
