Animal welfare organisation, Compassion in World Farming (CIWF), has released its APAC EggTrack 2024 Spotlight, which highlights Australian leadership in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region for advancing cage-free egg commitments.

One of Australia’s leading lights in advocating for and advancing the fresh produce industry, Michael Simonetta, is retiring as CEO of Perfection Fresh. He will step down on 30 June with Rod Quin appointed his successor. Perfection Fresh chair, Dave Chen, said it was Simonetta’s “visionary leadership” that shaped the company into what it is today.

Premium spirits producer, Sydney Rum Distillery (SRD), is moving operations out of the city and into Muswellbrook’s old Oak milk factory, aiming to capitalise on the growing international recognition of quality Australian distilled spirits.

The latest survey results from AUSVEG have again shown a third of vegetable growers are considering leaving the industry within the next year, driven by an ongoing cost-of-production crisis and lack of farm profitability.

New twists on traditional flavours, global ingredients, and novel pairings continue to influence food and beverages in the region as consumers seek unique taste experiences. Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa senior strategic taste marketing manager, Jie Ying Lee, discusses the top trends for 2025.

From 1 July 2026, the excise remission cap for eligible brewers and distillers will be lifted by $50,000 to $400,000. The Wine Equalisation Tax producer rebate will also be increased.

Sydney Brewery has acquired the Rocks Brewing Company’s production facilities and venue in Alexandria, and plans to open a new Lovedale brewhouse by Easter, citing a massive increase in demand for its products as the reason for expansion.

The Arnott’s Group says its latest multi-million-dollar manufacturing facility will fuel the company’s growth ambitions in the better-for-you market segment. It will house Good Food Partners, Arnotts’ cereals, snacks and bars business.

Bega Group says innovation, cost savings and a focus on high-value categories were behind its Branded business’ growth in a challenging consumer environment for 1H FY25. Its Bulk business also made a recovery.

Sydney sourdough specialists, Sonoma Baking Company and Berkelo bakery, are combining under the Sonoma banner, as Berkelo founder, Tom Eadie, shifts focus to foodservice.

The latest federal inquiry into the food and beverage manufacturing sector handed down its report this week, with the first of its 23 recommendations reiterating earlier inquiries that called for a comprehensive national food plan.

Organisations across Australia are calling for stronger policy and collaborative efforts to fight waste, as quantifiable targets set almost a decade ago slip further out of reach. End Food Waste Australia’s Food Pact offers a rallying point for businesses, with signatories showing real results that offer hope for the future.

Entries for the 2025 Hive Awards close next week! Check out 2024's Gamechanger collaboration, OzHarvest Ventures and Kakadu Kitchen, and get your applications in pronto.

Viva Energy has produced its first ISCC+ certified bio-based polymer from used cooking oil (UCO), at its Geelong Refinery, an innovation that sets the stage for producing food-grade recycled plastic packaging in Australia.

The deadline for entries into The Hive Awards has been extended to NEXT THURSDAY – 27 February. No excuses! Get your entries in or strongly encourage those you think should! Don't miss the opportunity for the excellence and innovation in your business to be celebrated.

Entries are now open for the 2025 Hive Awards, and close next week! Check out 2024's Rising Star winner, Compassion Creamery, and get your applications in pronto!