AUSTRALIA – Suntory Oceania has commenced operations at its new AU$400 million (US$260.8 million) manufacturing facility in Ipswich, Queensland, marking the company’s largest investment in Australia’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector in over a decade.
The facility is set to become a major hub for producing Suntory’s ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and energy drinks starting next year.
Suntory Oceania is the result of a partnership formed between Suntory Global Spirits and Frucor Suntory last year, creating a AU$3 billion (US$2.04B) entity that spans both premium spirits and non-alcoholic beverages across Australia and New Zealand.
The Queensland site has been designed as a net-zero, carbon-neutral facility featuring 7,000 solar panels, sustainable heating and cooling technology, as well as waste management and water recycling systems.
Mark Hill, managing director of Suntory Global Spirits Oceania, noted that the Queensland facility enhances the company’s global production footprint, which also includes sites in North America, Europe, and Japan.
“Our Queensland facility complements our global production footprint, and will expand our capability and capacity to deliver for our customers like never before,” Hill stated.
The 17-hectare site will serve as the central manufacturing and distribution hub for Suntory’s extensive portfolio of more than 40 brands.
It boasts advanced production capabilities, including a high-speed glass line and two canning lines capable of filling 180,000 cans per hour.
The site also has the capacity to store more than 50,000 pallets.
Initially, the facility will produce V Energy, Australia’s leading energy drink. By mid-2025, it will expand to include over 20 RTD brands such as -196, Canadian Club and Dry, and Jim Beam and Cola.
Additionally, Suntory’s premium spirits brands, including Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki, Roku Gin, and Haku Vodka, will be distributed from the site.
Darren Fullerton, CEO of Suntory Beverage and Food Oceania, highlighted the significance of the new facility, stating, “This world-class site represents a pivotal moment for Suntory Oceania. Full ownership of our supply chain will enable us to innovate and grow in the region, providing more opportunities for our people, customers, and consumers.”
The facility’s alcohol production is expected to commence by mid-2025.
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