The last quarter
Norco ’ s big scoop
The farmer-owned co-op undertakes its largest-ever commercial investment to increase ice-cream production .
BY ROBERT STOCKDILL
Farmer-owned dairy cooperative Norco is set to invest $ 30 million to boost production at its Lismore icecream plant .
The upgrade , which commenced in November , is expected to add around 20 million additional litres of ice cream annually , meeting the growing demand for its Hinterland brand and allowing new products in years to come .
Norco , the nation ’ s only 100 per cent farmer-owned co-op , launched Hinterland only last year but its range has already expanded to 11 flavours sold through Woolworths stores nationwide .
“ As our largest commercial investment to date , the factory upgrade will allow us to double-down on our commitment to providing value to our farmers while also supporting the future of the local area with greater long-term employment opportunities ,” said Norco CEO , Michael Hampson .
“ We ’ ve seen the demand for our icecream manufacturing services really strengthen over the past few years , and the new facility will allow us to expand our production capacity to meet the needs of our current customers , and attract new ones , while also producing special and innovative flavours without compromising on the delivery of our core lines .”
The expansion is being funded half by farmers and half with a government grant as part of a program targeting business growth in rural areas .
The project is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2022 .
As our largest commercial investment to date , the factory upgrade will allow us to double-down on our commitment to providing value to our farmers while also supporting the future of the local area with greater longterm employment opportunities .