SPC buys Australian food manufacturing company

The Kuisine Company, based in NSW, has produced high-quality frozen prepared meals and finger foods for nearly 20 years, with a range of clients including major supermarkets, health services and Meals on Wheels.

SPC chief executive officer Robert Giles said the acquisition of TKC, which already employs more than 100 people, was an opportunity to expand both businesses, particularly in supplying food to Greater Shepparton's health and aged care sectors.

“The rubber’s hitting the road now,” Mr Giles said.

“The scale and scope of Kuisine’s capabilities means that we can expand our offering to include frozen foods, finger foods and ready-made meals.”

But Mr Giles said the merger did not necessarily mean more local jobs.

“That decision hasn’t been made yet, we're looking for jobs for the future through other acquisitions, but not necessarily this one,” he said.

“We’ll look to see if there’s any particular synergies with any parts of their business.”

Mr Giles said the takeover would add another $30 million in annual turnover on top of the $281 million revenue in 2019, finally tipping SPC over the $300 million mark.

SPC, one of Australia's leading manufacturers of canned fruit and baked beans, will extend its produce range by 10 per cent, with new products including shepherd's pies, curries, roasts and side dishes.

Mr Giles said the announcement was in line with SPC's aim to become a global agribusiness.

“It will be manufacturers and innovators who will help drive Australia’s post-COVID economic recovery,” he said.

“We must all take the opportunity to support those businesses so they can become leading brands that service not only the Australian population but the world.”