Tasmania’s Premier Challenges Saputo Over King Island Dairy Future

Tasmania's Premier, Jeremy Rockliff, has publicly voiced concerns over Canadian dairy giant Saputo's plans for the King Island Dairy. The company, which owns the Tasmanian brand, announced earlier it had failed to find a buyer for the iconic cheesemaker and would close it by mid-2025 unless a purchaser is found.

King Island Dairy is the largest employer on the island with 58 workers. The closure announcement has unsettled the local community reliant on its operation for economic prosperity. In response, Premier Rockliff has pledged state government support to help facilitate a sale to safeguard jobs and maintain the brand.

The Premier's statements hint at skepticism over Saputo's commitment to finding a buyer. Allegedly, Saputo's foreign headquarters might not be prioritizing a sale, potentially preferring to eliminate competition by dissolving the brand altogether.

Tasmanian Senator Jacqui Lambie also criticized the foreign corporation's approach in Australia's federal parliament, labeling it as "disgraceful" for potentially turning its back on local stakeholders. This sentiment has amplified calls for Saputo to adhere to cooperative discussions with the government to find an interested buyer and ensure continuity for the storied dairy brand.

Mayor of King Island, Marcus Blackie, and investment banker David Williams have both expressed cautious optimism about the future of King Island Dairy, recognizing its brand value and potential for revival.