French dairy group Lactalis has announced plans to close a factory in Echuca, in the Australian state of Victoria, that manufactures milk and yoghurt products for the Pauls brand.
The move follows a decision by the company to consolidate its yoghurt and dessert operations at its larger regional centre of Bendigo, which is set to benefit from an A$85 million ($56.3 million) investment over the next three years.
Commenting on the move, Lactalis chief executive Mal Carseldine said: “The plan sees us have one regional hub in Victoria that is fully utilised. Our selection of which site considered: milk processing capability, operating costs and site layouts. Based on this criteria, our Bendigo site was the most suitable option for us to invest in to meet our future needs in Victoria”.
The closure is said to affect about 74 employees.
Source: ABC / Lactalis