The family owned and operated baked goods manufacturer, Priestley’s Gourmet Delights, says its $53 million AI-powered smart factory will create at least 56 new jobs and spur its launch into the retail market.
Priestley’s officially opened the 7740 square metre factory today, south of Brisbane in Acacia Ridge. It is 55 per cent bigger than its existing facility.
The company worked with local engineering firm, Mexx Engineering, that specialises in robotic assembly systems and advanced manufacturing lines. The bespoke set-up includes digital systems, autonomous intelligent vehicles, and cobots. It can gather real-time data during operations to boost productivity and improve processes.
Priestley’s Gourmet Delights CEO, Xanny Christophersen, said, “The technology we’re harnessing will allow us to boost productivity while also enabling us to grow our people and support them to upskill. This project will create a substantial number of new jobs for Queenslanders, as well as add to the state’s economy.”
Mobile autonomous robots streamline the baking process – stacking product onto baking racks as well as safely moving the racks around the facility – doubling production capacity and ensuring safety of employees by reducing the need for repetitive manual tasks.
Christophersen said, “Employees whose jobs are now automated are being upskilled towards higher-value roles which will enable them to develop their expertise and drive innovation of future products and processes.
“This increased productivity means that we’re able to retail an exciting new range of products directly to consumers for the first time – meaning they can indulge in a sweet treat whenever they feel like it,” she said.
Priestley’s received a $2.5 million grant from the state government’s Made in Queensland program, aimed at helping companies purchase automation equipment.
“It’s fantastic to be at the helm of such an innovative company. As the niece of the founder, I’ve watched the business grow over the years and our new facility is testament not only to her drive but the hard work of all our employees.”
Priestley’s was founded in 1995 with eight employees and a 75 square metre bakery, supplying cakes to cafes in Brisbane and surrounding areas. It currently has 148 employees in a 4600 square metre purpose-built factory, supplying frozen cakes, desserts, and savoury goods to Australia and New Zealand via foodservice distributors.
This upgrade has created 21 new jobs including 12 women and an additional 30 new jobs as part of the business expansion. The new capability also means they have been able to increase product packing rates, reduce factory bottlenecks and reduce costs significantly.
Priestley’s will also launch a new range of five indulgent desserts into independent retail chains Drakes Supermarkets and Ritchies IGA, with the view to expand to additional outlets across Australia. The range will include individually packaged cakes and tarts, perfect for indulgent ‘me time’ moments.
