Simplot, a multinational vegetable processor, has submitted a development application to Devonport City Council, aiming to enhance its Quoiba facility's production by approximately 30%.
Presently, the factory outputs 28 tonnes of frozen vegetables per hour, with proposed upgrades expected to elevate this figure to 36.5 tonnes. An environmental impact assessment has confirmed that the proposed expansion will not adversely affect the surrounding area in terms of noise, air, or water pollution. The Quoiba site, operational for four decades and primarily producing under the Birds Eye brand, initially served as a vegetable cannery before transitioning to frozen vegetable production. It currently employs around 300 individuals.
Simplot stands as Australia's sole remaining producer of frozen vegetables and also manages a significant potato processing plant in Ulverstone. The intended increase in production capacity is aimed at bolstering Simplot's competitiveness against imported frozen vegetables.
Source: burnie.seafmtas.com.au