One of Australia's leading tomato producers is expecting to increase its production by up to 10 per cent, with an expansion across two of its sites in Victoria.
Flavorite currently has 26 hectares under production (including a 2Ha propagation nursery) and this expansion will take it to 30Ha. Managing Director Mike Nichol says it is necessary to meet demand, as consumers are seeking healthier, natural and local food.
"Today’s consumer is looking for healthy, fresh and local food," he said. "But they don’t want to compromise on taste. We deliver just that - great tasting, Australian fresh produce that is consistently bursting with flavour and nutrients. Flavorite is responding to this consumer demand by increasing their growing capabilities across differing seasons.”
The company’s farm in Warragul will be expanded by 4.3Ha. This will allow for the increased production of Truss Tomatoes over Spring and Summer. Additionally, their Northern Victorian growing facility, Flavourwave in Katunga, will be expanded by 5Ha, to allow for a larger harvest of Cherry Vine Tomatoes in Winter. Both farms will be equipped with state-of-the-art growing facilities and equipment.
"The new glasshouse will have a gutter height of 7 metres, diffused glass with double AR coating, frameless windows, truss posts and liquid CO2 dosing," Director Chris Millis said.
Flavorite currently grows and markets tomatoes, capsicums, cucumbers, eggplant and blueberries. It has a grower network along the East Coast, with a growing focus on glasshouse technology to maintain supply levels.
"50 per cent of tomatoes produced are still from the field," Mr Millis said. "We have slowly been increasing market share by producing high quality, great tasting tomatoes all year round."
This expansion will result in the creation of over 90 ongoing jobs, and further employment opportunities for construction.
For more information:Chris Millis
Flavorite Tomatoes