Alliance Group invests in value-added sector
Unveiled as part of the business’ focus on capturing more value for its products, the new plant will significantly expand the scope of existing production by increasing the processing capacity of fresh and tempered lamb.
As part of the investment, new lines for automatic slicing, dicing and mincing of products will be installed, alongside a range of modern packaging technologies, offering the co-operative the flexibility to provide a range of packaging options for its global customers.
“A key part of our business strategy is capturing greater market value for our products, so that we can pass those gains onto our farmer-shareholders and create a stronger co-operative,” said David Surveyor, chief executive of Alliance Group. “This is an exciting development for the company, our farmer shareholders, our people and our customers. It reflects our continuing transition to becoming a world-class food and solutions cooperative and demonstrates we are delivering on our strategy.”
Through this new direction, Alliance will initially target the New Zealand domestic market, the UK foodservice sector and China for the value-added products.
“The co-operative is experiencing considerable growth in these sectors and we see significant opportunities in the future,” added Surveyor.
This follows a NZ$1.4m investment by Alliance in its Dannevirke plant earlier this month, to improve efficiencies and create 35 new roles at the site. “The investment will significantly improve the product flow through our further processing facilities and result in greater efficiencies at the plant,” said Surveyor. “It reflects Alliance’s commitment to maximising the operational performance of our plant network for the benefit of our farmer shareholders and people.
“Strengthening our processing capabilities at Dannevirke enables us to respond to the needs of our farmers in the lower North Island. Increasing capacity, driving efficiencies and lower costs mean we can pass these gains onto our farmer-shareholders. As a co-operative, we are focused on maximising the value created for New Zealand farmers.”
