A new report from the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) has revealed food and grocery manufacturing is generating $7.68 billion in annual turnover in South East Queensland, establishing itself as a key growth industry in the region.
The AFGC’s first Food and Grocery Manufacturing in South East Queensland Economic Snapshot 2018-19 highlighted the industry across the federal electorates of McPherson, Bonner, Griffith, Brisbane and Oxley.
It found the sector accounted for 29.1 per cent of total manufacturing output in the region, employing 11,790 people and generating $915 million in wages. This is equivalent to around $77,000 for every full-time equivalent worker.
AFGC CEO Tanya Barden said the food and grocery manufacturing sector is South East Queensland’s quiet achiever, and helped to diversify the local economy, as well as provide employment and skills growth in the region.
“Food and grocery manufacturing employers in South East Queensland range from major global companies like PepsiCo in Tingalpa to proud local brands like The Vege Chip Company in Currumbin Waters,” said Barden.
“These operations are dedicated to ensuring local workers have job security and the chance to upskill. They continue to invest and innovate at their facilities and provide employees with pathways to exciting careers.”
Federal Member for McPherson and Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the government is strengthening regional Queensland and providing opportunities for food and grocery manufacturing businesses to thrive.
“Food manufacturing is critical to our ongoing economic growth and the Morrison Government is committed to creating the environment for manufacturers to continue to innovate, grow and create new jobs,” Andrews said.
The full report can be accessed here.
