“We welcome and are excited by the announcement that Coca-Cola Amatil (CCA) will continue their investment in Greater Shepparton,” said Cr Houlihan.
“The investment of $78 million dollars into redevelopment is a clear sign that CCA and SPC are making a long term commitment to their operations in the Goulburn Valley. I would like to thank the CCA Chairman David Gonski and all the Board members along with CEO Alison Watkins.”
“In the face of obvious difficulties we commend the CCA Board in making a bold but calculated decision to continue the operation of SPC in the Goulburn Valley. In times where there appears to be limited support for Australian companies, it is a credit to the Australian owned CCA to invest in the Australian food manufacturing industry,” said Cr Houlihan.
“While SPC have been unable to implement their preferred development plan due to not being able to use the Andrew Fairley Avenue space as part of their site, it is great news that they have come up with an alternative that will see SPC operations continue in the GV for the long term. SPC local growers can now feel more confident about their future in the fruit and vegetable industry.”
Cr Houlihan also commended the Victorian Government for agreeing to continue their $22million financial commitment to help secure the future of SPC.
“The redevelopment of the SPC operations is one step towards the company being more sustainable, however the continued support from our community is vital to their success,” she said.
“One thing that we can do right now is to commit to purchasing our local products - products which are grown in Australia, produced in Australia, by an Australian company. This is something which is passionate to many Australians.”
“Let’s support SPC here in Shepparton – it’s been our icon for 100 years and we want to keep it that way.”
