- Published:
- Monday 22 January 2024
An Australian petfood manufacturer that makes nutritional and high quality pet food has expanded into Victoria to open its biggest facility, thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins today visited Lyka Pet Food’s new $16 million flagship facility in Dandenong South, set to boost Victoria’s growing food manufacturing sector and create more than 100 local jobs.
The new facility includes state of the art production lines and advanced, automated equipment that is the first of its kind in Australia, enhancing efficiency and nutrient retention.
The Dandenong South facility will also be home to the company’s national distribution centre, enabling up to four times the current distribution of the product, improving delivery times, reducing food miles and increasing the company’s ability to supply the pet food across Australia.
The company sources many of its ingredients from local Victorian suppliers, generating millions of dollars in value for supply chain partners across the state, including agricultural producers and logistics providers.
Lyka Pet Food is an Australian pet food manufacturer operating through an eCommerce platform direct to consumers, offering fresh, sustainable and human-grade meals for pets based on veterinary and nutrition advice.
Reports by Animal Medicines Australia have shown a surge in pet ownership in recent years – with 69 per cent of Australian households now embracing a furry family member.
Victoria has the largest and most established food and beverage manufacturing sector in the nation, valued at around $40 billion and employing more than 77,000 people.
The Labor Government is supporting the growth of the state’s advanced manufacturing industry through a range of initiatives including the $15 million Made in Victoria – Industry R&D Infrastructure Fund, the $20 million Manufacturing and Industry Sovereignty Fund and the Made in Victoria – Manufacturing Growth Program.
Quote attributable to Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins
“Lyka’s decision to expand its national presence here in Victoria speaks to our skilled talent and nation-leading manufacturing expertise, which will drive economic growth and create more jobs for more Victorians.”
Quotes attributable to Lyka Pet Food Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder Gabriel Guedes
“We are excited to be launching this world leading facility in Victoria, while working with farmers and other suppliers in the region. This will enable us to further our mission of helping our dogs live twice as long, all starting with life-changing nutrition."
Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams
“Lyka’s new manufacturing facility will be a great addition to Dandenong South’s industrial precinct, fit with advanced equipment and boosting our state’s production.”