Ferndale Foods' new $20m factory opens in Ballarat

Family owned confectioner and food manufacturer Ferndale Foods Australia has inaugurated its $20 million state-of-the-art food manufacturing facility in Ballarat, Victoria to produce ‘better for you’ bars and snacks.

Once fully operational, the new facility – the company’s third – to be known as FoodLine Australia will have the capacity to manufacture 180 million bars annually.

It will offer co-manufacturing capability to existing brands and customers such as Aldi supermarkets, while also creating its own ‘better for you’ product lines. FoodLine Australia plans to employ up to 30 people over the next 18 months.

CEO of Ferndale Foods Leigh Edward said: “We are thrilled to embark on this exciting journey for Australian food manufacturing.

“Through extensive research and consultation with our major customers and leading brand owners, we have identified a significant gap in the industry — a comprehensive, state-of-the-art manufacturing hub capable of producing a diverse range of bars, including protein, muesli, low-sugar, sugar-free, gluten-free, and high-fibre options.”

Edward’s father Bruce founded the business in 1985 which now sells its well known JILA mints, JOLS pastilles and Licorette brands in 14 countries.

The Edward Family also launched The So Soft Marshmallow Co in 2018 with the company’s Delacombe facility producing over 50,000kg of marshmallows each week.

Edward said: “Similar to marshmallows, we recognised the existing demand for better-for-you products.

“By offering a one-stop-shop with state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge facilities, along with the highest quality products, we can optimize production, storage, and shipping processes for larger customers, providing them with unparalleled convenience and cost savings.”

The Buying Director for ALDI Australia Varun Raheja said the company partnered with many innovative Australian businesses to bring the highest quality products to its shelves.

Raheja said: “Ferndale’s commitment to Australian-based manufacturing speaks to ongoing investment in the industry, and its commitment to keep delivering when it comes to product innovation for our stores.

“We value partners like Ferndale immensely and offer our congratulations on another milestone for this iconic Aussie business.”