Construction has officially started on Thomas Foods International's new state-of-the-art meat processing plant near Murray Bridge today, set to bolster the state's regional economy, exports and jobs.
The new plant is expected to create around 2,000 jobs, once fully operational, with an estimated 500 required for the initial stage of production.
Stage one includes development of the company's beef processing facilities, to hold an initial capacity of up to 600 head a day. Stages to follow will include sheep and lamb processing facilities and further expansion of the beef facilities, taking the plant's total processing capacity to 1,200 head of beef and up to 15,000 head of sheep and lamb per day.
Turning the first sod at the site, Premier Steven Marshall said today is a huge step towards creating more jobs for South Australians as well as strengthening South Australia's meat exports, which will have a significant impact on the state's economy.
"It is fantastic to be here today to mark the start of construction of Thomas Foods International's new state-of-the-art meat processing – a factory which will create 2000 jobs," Premier Marshall said.
"In addition to the massive influx of jobs for the State - the estimated gross production impact of developing an expanded new plant on a Greenfield site will increase gross state product by an estimated $1.05 billion over the first 10 years of its operation.
"The new plant will ultimately grow our meat exports into the future, which is a crucial pillar of South Australia's food, wine and agribusiness sector.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Corey Wingard said the Marshall Government was proud to contribute to public roadworks leading to the new facility.
"The Marshall Government has worked closely with the Rural City of Murray Bridge and the Commonwealth to complete the link road between Mannum Road and the new plant," Minister Wingard said.
"The new $14 million access road will help facilitate TFI's massive private investment in our state which will support our economy and local jobs."
Thomas Foods International CEO Darren Thomas said whilst the 2018 fire was disruptive, it provided the company a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create something bigger and better.
"The new plant will set the industry benchmark for technology, efficiency, environmental sustainability, animal welfare and workplace safety," Mr Thomas said.
"Today marks an exciting milestone for the company, and we look forward to working alongside BADGE, our recently appointed Adelaide-based construction company, in creating what will become a global showcase of advanced food manufacturing."
"We made a commitment to rebuild and we're doing just that."
For more information on Thomas Foods International visit: thomasfoods.com
For further information on how the Department for Trade and Investment can support companies looking to expand or invest in South Australia visit: invest.sa.gov.au
