Mill puts more starch in the mix

Allied Mills, which bought Grain Products Australia after it fell into receivership last March, will forge ahead with a massive upgrade of the Marius St starch plant.

Once complete, the move is expected to dramatically increase production at the plant and the Belmore St flour mill and safeguard the more than 60 jobs at the facilities.

“The project will deliver improved productivity, greater capability and reduced operating costs at our starch facility and significantly improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the business,” Allied Mills managing director Joseph Di Leo said.

The production increase is also likely to be a boon for the region’s wheat farmers.

Close to local 50 staff lost jobs when Grain Products Australia collapsed with debts of about $14 million last year.

Allied Mills’ food ingredients general manager Dominic Regan said the Tamworth sites formed an important part of the company’s strategy.

“Starch and wheat gluten are important products in our portfolio,” Mr Regan said.

“We plan to continue to manufacture the world’s best gluten for our customers in Australia, Japan and other international markets.

“We have taken time since acquiring the site to develop the best solution and business plan for our Tamworth operations and we are grateful for the support given to us from our customers, employees, and suppliers, especially the regional wheat growers.”

The investment program will extend “over the next few years,” he said.

Tamworth Business Chamber president Tim Coates said the expansion was a welcome show of faith in the region.

“It’s great to see such confidence in Tamworth,” Mr Coates said.

Allied Mills is one of Australia’s largest manufacturers and distributors of bakery premixes and flour products.