Priestley’s Gourmet Delights, a beloved Queensland institution and leading national manufacturer of sweet and savory treats, has unveiled a revolutionary $53 million facility in Acacia Ridge.
This 7,740-square-meter marvel marks a historic leap for the industry, boasting the first-ever data-driven SMART factory in the sweet and savory food sector.
Despite automation, Priestley’s prioritizes its human workforce. Skilled employees continue to play a vital role in hand-decorating products, selecting ingredients, and meticulously ensuring quality control through tasting. Notably, employees whose roles have been automated are being upskilled for higher-value positions, fostering professional development and promoting innovation in future products and processes.
Priestley’s expansion into retail is further fueled by the new facility, creating an estimated 56 new full-time roles by 2026.This expansion not only strengthens the company’s position as a center of excellence for dessert and savory production but also signifies its commitment to the community with job creation.
This state-of-the-art facility signifies Priestley’s commitment to both innovation and its long-standing legacy. The female-founded company leverages cutting-edge AI technology alongside its dedication to quality and craftsmanship. The SMART factory harnesses real-time data to optimize production, streamline processes, and propel growth, setting a new standard for the industry.
Sweet Success with Automation
One of the most captivating features is the use of mobile autonomous robots. These helpful machines stack products onto baking racks and navigate the facility safely, doubling production output while minimizing repetitive manual tasks and enhancing employee safety.
“This new facility is a testament to our dedication to innovation and growth,” said a spokesperson from Priestley’s Gourmet Delights. “By integrating advanced technologies and upskilling our workforce, we are setting a new benchmark for the food production industry.”
With this groundbreaking facility, Priestley’s Gourmet Delights firmly establishes itself at the forefront of the sweet and savory food manufacturing sector, poised for continued success with a focus on both technology and its valued employees.
Xanny Christophersen MD and CEO, Priestley’s Gourmet Delights, said: “It’s fantastic to be at the helm of such an innovative company. As the niece of the founder, I’ve watched the business grow over the years and our new facility is testament not only to her drive but the hard work of all of our employees. “The technology we’re harnessing will allow us to boost productivity while also enabling us to grow our people – supporting them to upskill and creating a substantial number of new jobs for Queenslanders, as well as adding to the state’s economy. This increased productivity means that we’re able to retail an exciting new range of products directly to consumers for the first time – meaning they can indulge in a sweet treat whenever they feel like it.”
Priestley’s Gourmet Delights will launch a new range of five indulgent desserts into independent retail chains Drakes Supermarkets and Ritchies IGA, with the view to expand to additional outlets across Australia. The range will include individually packaged cakes and tarts, perfect for indulgent ‘me time’ moments.
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