Sale of SPC cautiously welcomed

Independent Member for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed has cautiously welcomed the proposed sale of SPC to Shepparton Partners Collective Pty Ltd (Shepparton Partners Collective), a joint venture between Perma Funds Management and The Eights.

“I trust that a high purchase price alone was not the deciding factor but their interest in the ongoing sustainability of the business, their capacity to grow the business, innovate and increase exports,” Ms Sheed said.

“SPC is an iconic Australian company located in our town of Shepparton. It has provided both permanent and casual employment throughout its existence and continues to do so.”

SPC is not only one of the region’s largest employers but it also holds a special place for many local families, many of whom have had at least one family member employed by the business at some stage.

“Like many local families my son used to perform holiday work doing the wash-down late at night funding his studies at university,” Ms Sheed said.

Because of that special relationship with its community Ms Sheed has called on the new owners to be sensitive in how the business is operated.

“I note that while the company is called Shepparton Partners Collective, it appears to have no particular connection to Shepparton. I would hope the passion for the ongoing operation of this company is maintained.”

Recent investments by the previous owner Coca-Cola Amatil and the state government should see SPC moving forward as a progressive modern business.

“We’ve seen investment in the company by previous owners and the Victorian State Government. In a world where greater production of food will always be required it is essential that we in Australia, and we in Greater Shepparton, have industries like this,” Ms Sheed said.

“The people of our region will be anxious to see the new owners grow the business and strengthen its operations.”

ENDS

Media contact

Myles Peterson 0467 035 840│myles.peterson@parliament.vic.gov.au

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