Fonterra Breaks Ground on New UHT Cream Plant in Edendale
Source: DairyNews.today
Fonterra has commenced construction on its new ultra-high-temperature (UHT) cream plant in Edendale, marking a significant milestone for the dairy giant. A groundbreaking ceremony, attended by Fonterra employees, community representatives, and local iwi, celebrated the project's launch. The site and project team received a blessing from Hokonui Rūnanga Cultural Advisor Matu Coleman-Clark before the ceremonial turning of the first sod.
The $150 million investment will support growing demand for UHT cream across Asia. Set to begin production in August 2026, the plant will initially produce over 50 million liters of UHT cream annually, with plans to more than double capacity by 2030. The project is expected to create 70 permanent roles and additional jobs during construction.
Strategic Growth for Fonterra
The new facility is a cornerstone of Fonterra's strategy to expand its Foodservice business in China and other key markets, focusing on high-value product production. Andrew Johns, General Manager of Operations for the Lower South Island, expressed excitement over the project at the ceremony.
“It’s fantastic to see all the planning and hard mahi come together, and we’re eager to watch the build take shape in the coming months,” Johns said. “The new plant is a big investment in our future here at Edendale, and we’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact on our community as a whole as construction progresses.”
Economic and Community Impact
The project underscores Fonterra’s commitment to sustainable growth and economic development in the region. Once operational, the Edendale plant will play a pivotal role in meeting international demand for UHT cream, while bolstering local employment and contributing to the cooperative's long-term strategy for value creation.
With construction underway, the Edendale community stands at the threshold of a new era of opportunity and growth, aligned with Fonterra’s vision for expanding its global footprint.
Strategic Growth for Fonterra
The new facility is a cornerstone of Fonterra's strategy to expand its Foodservice business in China and other key markets, focusing on high-value product production. Andrew Johns, General Manager of Operations for the Lower South Island, expressed excitement over the project at the ceremony.
“It’s fantastic to see all the planning and hard mahi come together, and we’re eager to watch the build take shape in the coming months,” Johns said. “The new plant is a big investment in our future here at Edendale, and we’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact on our community as a whole as construction progresses.”
Economic and Community Impact
The project underscores Fonterra’s commitment to sustainable growth and economic development in the region. Once operational, the Edendale plant will play a pivotal role in meeting international demand for UHT cream, while bolstering local employment and contributing to the cooperative's long-term strategy for value creation.
With construction underway, the Edendale community stands at the threshold of a new era of opportunity and growth, aligned with Fonterra’s vision for expanding its global footprint.
