In a statement yesterday, chief executive Dan Boulton said it signalled a strong vote of confidence in the sector, community and the company’s site network.
Construction would be staged to minimise disruption to existing operations at the South Otago site and commissioning was planned from 2027.
It would deliver new freezing capacity, automated cold storage, sorting and modern load-out infrastructure. Once completed, the redevelopment would significantly strengthen the site’s role as high-capacity hub for SFF’s South Island network, Mr Boulton said.
Finegand, which is five minutes south of Balclutha, is one of the largest of SFF’s 14 sites, employing up to 1200 people in the peak of the season. It processes beef, sheepmeat and veal.
The site opened in June 1912 under the South Otago Freezing Co. PPCS took over the site in 1989, and rebranded as Silver Fern Farms in 2008.
Mr Boulton said the redevelopment would also deliver a step change in product quality and customer outcomes.
"These improvements directly support our premium strategy and build long-term brand value," he said.
Automation and modern facility design would significantly improve workplace safety and sustainability outcomes.
"Automation will reduce manual handling and forklift movements, creating a safer working environment for our people while supporting the transition into higher-skill, technology-enabled roles," Mr Boulton said.
"Modern refrigeration systems and smarter layouts will also improve energy efficiency and reduce unnecessary handling and transport over time."
The investment had been enabled by disciplined financial management following several challenging years for the business.
"After returning to profit following two years of operating losses, we have retained earnings which strengthens our balance sheet and helps ensure capital was available for reinvestment," he said. — Allied Media
