Essen South Australia turns ten (and a bit bit)

Food South Australia turned 10 last October, but Covid-19 put the party on hold for the top tier in the industry, says CEO Catherine Sayer.

"We wanted to recognize this success and all the achievements of our members, whose livelihood and growth are the reason we're here, that's why we're officially celebrating our 10th (and a bit) birthday now," said Ms. Sayer.

The Association held its long-awaited celebration at the National Wine Center on June 17, welcoming members to celebrate with guests including the Premier, Rep. The Hon. Steven Marshall, and a feast of South Australian products and entertainment from Michelle Pearson and the Heyday Band to enjoy.

"Food Australia has its precursors in the shared vision of the industry and the South Australian government to create an effective industry growth support mechanism that is industry-led and responsive to the priorities and needs of the industry," said Ms. Sayer.

“Our sector has always been recognized as a major economic engine for the state and Food South Australia has become a point of entry for support of everything from developing a new product or starting a new business to supporting iconic South Australian brands in lucrative international markets . "

A decade later, Food South Australia is unique in Australia as an independent, industry-led, state-led industry association that also has close partnership with the government to provide funding for programs to support industry-wide growth.

"The Government of South Australia is very proud of the strong partnership with Food South Australia since its inception in 2010," said South Australian Prime Minister MEP Steven Marshall.

"Food South Australia's role as a top authority for the sector and a single point of entry for food and beverage companies does not exist anywhere else in Australia and provides a unique platform to support the sector," he said.

Industry leader Maurice Crotti AM, Managing Director of San Remo, also attended the celebrations.

"Much of the successful growth of the food and beverage industry in South Australia over the past few decades has been based on the industry's willingness to work together for the good of all, to work with the government to grow and face opportunities and challenges." Will and enthusiasm, ”said Mr Crotti.

“Food South Australia was and is the trusted partner for the industry to enable these results and to be the voice and representative of our industry. This central point of access and support means whether a company is a brand new company just starting to bring its products to local retailers or a traditional brand bringing top-notch South Australian products to the global market, we know where the conversation is have to start with Food South Australia, ”he said.

Ms. Sayer said the Food South Australia team, which has grown into specialists in consumer information, accessing new markets and developing sustainable business systems and skills, looks forward to the next decade – and beyond.

“Every day, our entire team works individually with companies and also at the industry level to expand markets, capabilities, capacities and connections for the food and beverage industry in South Australia. That's what we're here for, ”she said.

Catherine Sayer, the Hon. Steven Marshall MP and Maurice Crotti AO.