Nestled in the heart of Melbourne's North, the City of Whittlesea has emerged as a gastronomic powerhouse, nurturing a thriving ecosystem of agriculture, food, and beverage businesses. This vibrant municipality is home to over 1,300 established enterprises, making it one of the largest contributors to the sector across Melbourne. With an impressive output of $3.3 billion, the food and beverage industry is a vital pillar of Whittlesea's economy, employing more than 13,500 workers.
The City of Whittlesea's success in the food and beverage sector can be attributed to its rich history and strategic location. Over time, the region has cultivated a legacy and culture of food and beverage manufacturing, attracting a diverse range of small, medium, and large businesses. One of the key factors driving this growth is Whittlesea's close proximity to the freeway system, which provides businesses with easy access to road and rail transport routes, as well as air and sea ports for international trade.
The region's commitment to education and innovation has also played a crucial role in its success. Major educational providers, such as RMIT University, La Trobe University, and Melbourne Polytechnic, are located in Bundoora and Epping, ensuring a steady supply of skilled workers for the industry. These institutions foster a culture of learning and collaboration, driving the development of new technologies and processes that enhance the competitiveness of local businesses.
Thomastown and Epping, two key manufacturing precincts within the City of Whittlesea, have become synonymous with excellence in the food and beverage sector. These areas are home to a range of well-known businesses, including Edlyn Foods, Mission Foods, Jalna Yoghurt, Chris' Foods, Tailored Beverage, and Turosi. The presence of these industry leaders has created a supportive ecosystem that encourages innovation, collaboration, and growth.
The Melbourne Fruit, Vegetable, and Flower Market, located in Epping, is another significant contributor to the region's success. Estimated to turn over $2 billion annually, this market serves as a gateway for fresh produce, connecting local growers with retailers, restaurants, and consumers across Melbourne and beyond.
Looking to the future, businesses in the City of Whittlesea are well-positioned to capitalize on new opportunities. The announced Federal Government investment in the Beveridge Intermodal Freight Terminal is set to increase connectivity to regional, national, and international markets, further enhancing the region's competitive advantage. Moreover, the proposed Melbourne Food Innovation and Export Hub and the Australian Food Innovation Centre promise to expand the horizons of the local food and beverage industry, driving innovation and growth.
The City of Whittlesea's success in the food and beverage sector is deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. Historically, the region has been a diverse agricultural powerhouse, supplying Melbourne with a wide array of produce, including meat, milk, wool, grain, fruit, vegetables, and eggs. The growth of milk production and distribution in the 1930s, led by the German dairying family that formed Pura Dairy in Thomastown, is a testament to the region's long-standing commitment to quality and innovation.
Today, the food and beverage sector in the City of Whittlesea is a multi-faceted ecosystem, encompassing manufacturing, services, retailing, and wholesaling. This diverse and interconnected network of businesses contributes an impressive 38% of the municipality's total exports, underscoring the sector's vital role in driving economic growth and prosperity.
