Prime Minister Scott Morrison was in South Australia last week to see the launch of cordial and beverage manufacturer Bickford's Group's new high-speed production line.
After touring the $20 million investment, Morrison said: “What is being done here is great for manufacturing – the future of Australian manufacturing is this high quality. This is a fantastic example of how the latest technology can be used right here right now and is a great signal to others that this is a great place to invest and grow.
“I was thrilled to get this invitation. Bickford’s is a truly great Australian brand – one in 25 Australians buy Bickford’s each week which goes to show how loyal consumers are.”
Bickford’s has been producing beverages in the state since 1874. Its new facility took more than three years in construction, with the production line created by Sidel, in conjunction with Tetra Pak. It can produce 18,000 bottles per hour. It is one of only a handful of machines in the southern hemisphere to use aseptic filling technology.
Bickford’s owner Angelo Kotses says the investment was building on a legacy born in South Australia. “This fantastic new technology enables us to take South Australia and the Bickford’s brand to the world – that makes me very proud.”
Bickford’s now has a total of eight manufacturing lines, and the technology aims to create “endless opportunity for the business” and innovative beverages in a number of drinks category, including a wider range of preservative free options.
Bickford’s operates in 39 countries, and first products created on the new production line are expected to hit shelves around the countries in the coming weeks.
