One of Australia’s largest ready meal companies, B&J The Kitchen, has rebranded under the name The Kitchenary, after being acquired from Beak & Johnston by Woolworths Group.
Source: The Kitchenary
Prior to the acquisition, Woolworths held a 23 per cent interest in B&J City Kitchen. Its intentions to wholly acquire the company were first announced through an ACCC competition review in January, with the deal receiving the go-ahead in April.
The rebranded business was officially launched on 2 June at The Kitchenary’s flagship production site in Arndell Park, Western Sydney, which produces more than 800,000 chilled and frozen meals each week across Australia and New Zealand, from brands including Strength Meals Co, Simmone Logue, Pasta Master, and Artisano.
The Kitchenary CEO, Ray Hanly, said the new name reflects the company’s passion for food, creativity, and craftsmanship
“It’s a fresh identity that better represents who we are today, and where we’re heading, while staying true to the quality and values that built our reputation,” said Hanly.
“Our people are what make this business exceptional. The new name reflects the energy and professionalism they bring to the table every day.”
Beak & Johnston will continue operating and producing out of its Greenacre facility, while B&J The Kitchen (Arndell Park) and B&J New Zealand will transition to The Kitchenary.
The company stated the Arndell Park facility is the largest ready meal manufacturing site in the Southern Hemisphere, with world-class infrastructure and highly automated production systems including advanced lines for lasagne and pastry, underpinned by a strong culture of quality, efficiency and food safety.
With over 35 years of experience delivering meal solutions for retailers and foodservice partners, The Kitchenary team has deep operational knowledge to drive consistent performance and innovation.
“The scale and complexity of our operations often go unseen, but they’re absolutely central to our ability to deliver consistent, high-quality meals,” said Hanly.
“From our lasagne lines to our pastry production, our team brings deep expertise and an unwavering commitment to food quality and safety.
“This is more than a name change. It’s a launchpad for what’s next. With the strength of our brands, our people and the backing of Woolworths, we’re well placed to lead the next chapter in Australian food manufacturing.”
Woolworths stated its acquisition of The Kitchenary reflects a continued focus on capability, consistency, and culinary innovation, through its long-term investments in local food manufacturing.
Investment is already underway across expanded capabilities, proprietary product development, and deeper customer alignment across Australia and New Zealand.
