News

Welcoming AFAB’s NEW Individual member: Glenn Dawson

November 2023

We're thrilled to introduce Glen Dawson as our newest Member. Glenn is the Business Owner and Founder of The Only Straw, a company dedicated to providing compostable, eco-friendly single-use drinking straws to the hospitality industry in Australia. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector and the ownership of two eco-boutique hotels in Lombok, Indonesia, Glenn brings a wealth of knowledge to our community. His mission is to transform the fast-food industry and help customers make a positive environmental impact with a product that truly works. Glenn's commitment to sustainability is evident. Unlike traditional paper straws, his straws are made from rice flour and tapioca starches, making them degradable, home compostable, and zero waste. They not only last in a drink but also provide a pleasant experience without the cardboard taste. Since founding The Only Straw in 2020, Glen has become a recognised leader, earning the title of grand finalist in the Startup Gippsland awards. His passion for making a difference and offering eco-friendly solutions that don't cost the earth truly sets him apart.

Join us in welcoming Glenn Dawson to our community!

John McFadden makes history World Seafood Championship titles!

November 2023

AFAB had the incredible opportunity to catch up with the culinary maestro, John McFadden, who recently secured his second consecutive victory at the World Food Championship in Dallas, earning a staggering score of 97.5/100 across 5 judges. As the proud sponsor through AFAB, I'm thrilled to share the highlights of our conversation. The World Food Championships Australia served as John's gateway to the global stage. His journey to Dallas unfolded with a golden ticket, leading to a seafood category win last year, followed by an overall World Food Championship title in May. Returning this November, John etched his name in history by clinching back-to-back titles. John, already a two-time Seafood World champion and the reigning overall World Food Champion, is aiming for a historic back-to-back win. The prospect of securing a fourth world title of World Food Champion after a 30-year hiatus from competition is a significant personal milestone for him, making it his ultimate goal and the "holy grail" of his culinary journey.

Supply chain volatility is shaping the foodservice industry

November 2023

As per the 5 key takeaways from AFAB's State of Play Report 2023, supply chain volatility continues to shape the foodservice industry, requiring adaptability, resilience and strategic planning for all stakeholders.

Learn more about the key foodservice trends and insights

AFAB's Data Centric Goals

November 2023

One of the main goals AFAB sets for itself is being a trusted source of data, trend tracking and insights for the wider foodservice community. We believe that sharing information is key to driving growth and innovation in the industry. One of the ways we achieve this is through our Annual State of Play Report, which provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the foodservice industry for stakeholders at every level. We also aim to set a foodservice data standard, which would help to streamline data sharing and improve transparency across the sector.

Get our full State of Play report to learn more

Welcoming AFAB’s NEW Standard member: RMKG

November 2023

RMKG specialises in talent acquisition and career placement services within the foodservice and hospitality industry. Their mission, as you mentioned, is to provide exclusive career opportunities to exceptional candidates in this field. As a standard member, RMKG will be able to benefit from AFAB’s ability to advocate to the media on their behalf while having access to our foodservice advice, members-only events, special interest committees and regulatory & legislative updates. We’re excited to see what the future holds for their incredible business with AFAB by their side.

Visit RMKG to learn more

Welcoming AFAB’s NEW Supporter member: Queen Professional

October 2023

The Queen brand is renowned for its top-quality vanilla and maple products, proudly crafted in Australia for over 125 years. Queen Professional, a division of Dr. Oetker Queen, offers premium ingredients and innovative flavors, backed by our food industry expertise and commitment to sustainability. With its products enjoyed in over 40 countries, Queen is a trusted choice for commercial kitchens and food manufacturers worldwide. As a Supporter member, Queen Professional will be able to take advantage of the insights, analysis and forecasting available from the latest State of Play Report, endorsement of labour agreements as well as engaging in member-only events, industry projects, and much more.

Visit Queen Professional to learn more

Big news for our Founding Member at All G Foods and friends at vEEF!

October 2023

A new era for plant-based meat: vEEF and LOVE BUDS unite under The Aussie Plant Based Co.

In a landmark move that will reshape the plant-based meat landscape in Australia, two Australian plant-based brands have announced their merger under a new entity, The Aussie Plant Based Co. The new business aims to capitalise on steadily increasing demand within the plant-based meat category. An increasing number of Australians are choosing to consume less meat due to the enhanced taste of plant-based alternatives and a growing awareness of its positive effects on the environment.

Read the media launch

Welcoming AFAB’s NEW Standard Member: Madhouse Bakehouse

October 2023

Madhouse Bakehouse is an all-Australian and family-owned wholesale bakery and they've spent decades building their reputation as a quality commercial food supplier. They care about the quality they send out each day. We’re excited to see what the future holds for their incredible business with AFAB by their side.

Visit Madhouse Bakehouse

Welcoming AFAB’s NEW Standard Member: Mulberry MC

October 2023

Mulberry Marketing Communications is a full-service marketing and communications agency specialises in developing strategic business-to-business campaigns, and offers an array of services!

We’re excited to see what the future holds for their incredible business with AFAB by their side

Visit Mulberry MC

AFAB is proud to be sponsoring John McFadden in his attempt to retain the title of World Food Champion!

October 2023

.John McFadden will be competing at the World Food Championships (WFC) scheduled for 8-12 November at Dallas’s Fair Park to retain his current World Title. John will also doing Champions Table showcasing Tyson Food Company products with a 4 course menu for 8 people in an hour.

AFAB is proud to be sponsoring as you continue to represent Australia incredibly well Chef!

More info on the World Food Championships

Thank you for upgrading to a Supporter level membership: Huhtamaki

September 2023

Huhtamaki is helping address our industry’s sustainability issues by dedicating themselves to providing the best in high quality, eco friendly food packaging solutions. Sustainability has always been a priority of ours, as demonstrated in the SOPR, and their new level of support will help us work towards a better, more sustainable future for Australian foodservice.

Visit their website to learn more about Huhtamaki

The AFAB 2023 State of Play Report has launched!

September 2023

Thanks to all the members that joined us for a insightful breakfast event. Special thanks to our incredible panelists Wes Lambert, Rod Fowler, Primo Danieletto, Sam Oakden & John McFadden for sharing their insights on inflation, staff, food waste, latest tech & supply chain volatility! Together, we made today a huge sell out success! Our State of Play Report showcases our detailed findings on the latest data, trends and direction our industry is headed.

Obtain your copy here

Behind every great menu with Comcater and Tony Green

September 2023

Comcater recently sat down with Tony Green, CEO of the Australian Foodservice Advocacy Body, to improve the quality and standard of the industry in Australia.
Comcater has been along for the ride with AFAB from the beginning, the ability to share knowledge, action-provoking concepts and industry-leading methodologies has been of great value to us both.

Watch the interview

Foodservice insights

September 2023

Did you know that it takes a budget of over $1 billion to support and expand the agriculture industry? This increasingly large figure reflects the significant investments required to ensure our foodservice industry continues to develop and thrive. From implementing eco-friendly practices to investing in innovative technologies, the agriculture industry is always looking for new ways to improve. So next time you sit down for a meal, take a moment to appreciate the hard work that goes into making it possible.

For more snapshot foodservice industry insights like these, visit

AFAB and R U OK? team up to support the fs sector and mental health

September 2023

AFAB is delighted to stand alongside R U OK? as they unveil the inspiring 2023 theme: "I'm here to hear." This theme encourages all Australians to make a positive impact by simply being present, actively listening, and genuinely asking, "R U OK?" The hospitality industry places significant pressure on staff to meet high standards and maintain a positive attitude despite challenges.
R U OK? and AFAB have joined forces to create a mateship manual, offering insights on how to navigate the industry's mental challenges and support one another when the emotional toll of the job becomes overwhelming.

Explore the full mateship manual here

Welcome our latest Supporter member: PRG (Panayi Retail Group)

September 2023

As a company striving to make waves in Australian Retail, the tools they have at their disposal through their new membership will help facilitate the growth of their already incredible brands (Christopher’s Cake Shop, Endeka Gelateria, Panayi Providores & Kambi Group), and aid in acquisition & development of emerging ones. Through their immeasurable passion and unwavering dedication to high level performance, PRG’s contributions to the Australian foodservice industry and new collaborative efforts with AFAB is something we’re all excited about.

Visit their website to learn more

Welcome our latest Standard member: Piccolo Me

August 2023

Founded by two brothers, during their teenage years, they were naturally drawn into the world of food and coffee, influenced by their father's work in the hospitality industry. The name "Piccolo Me" was inspired by their favourite coffee, the "Piccolo Latte." It also symbolises their humble beginnings, starting with a small store. They believe that something big always starts out small. The Piccolo Me brand is continually expanding since opening its first store in 2012. Piccolo Me currently has 36 store locations and 9 more coming across Sydney, Wollongong and Melbourne, and has 370 staff!

Visit their website to learn more

Fine Food Australia 2023 at ICC Sydney, 11-14 September

August 2023

Over four days and hosting over 850 exhibitors which will showcase the very best in retail, hospitality and bakery innovation.

Keynote speakers include Adam Moore, TV chef and 'culinology director' at food consultancy Culinary Revolutions, who’ll be taking part in the Concept to Consumer workshop on Wednesday 13 September at The Source Kitchen. Elsewhere, Australian Foodservice Advocacy Body CEO Tony Green will talk about advocating for change in the food service industry, while former Pittwater RSL executive chef John McFadden will share some of the expertise that led to him taking the top gong at this year’s World Food Championships.

View the article @ Broadsheet.com.au >

How Compost Connect is building a world without food waste

August 2023

QSR Media has dropped a fascinating article on Compost Connect, the innovative company taking matters into their own hands with a fantastic solution to the food waste issue.

So what does Compact Connect do? They’re bridging the gap between businesses and local composters for the purpose of reducing food waste, and reducing the carbon footprint left by the businesses who are typically large contributors to both.

In 2022 Compost Connect had made its way into 3 countries, redirected 915 tonnes of food waste from landfill and reduced 976 tonnes of carbon emissions. As a signing signatory on the Foodwaste CRC’s recommendations, you know these are results we can get behind.

Read the full article here

AFAB welcomes Bravo Foods!

August 2023

In seeing Bravofoods outgrow their third facility in 13 years, now working on the construction of their state-of-the-art meat portioning plant in NSW, Bravo have truly shown a remarkable ability to grow and improve at a rapid pace.

Through the leadership Jason Giannakos, and the sales team of ex-chefs Chris Wheatley and Adam Cremona alongside General Manager Damian Briscoe-Hough, they’ve created a strong, hard working, and passionate culture that resonates with the wider foodservice industry, and customers alike.
We’re excited to see what the future holds for their incredible business with AFAB by their side.

Visit their website to learn more

Welcome our latest Supporter Member: AJN Healthcare Service

August 2023

As an entirely family owned and operated business since 1985, CV understands looking out for one another, and at the core of it, that’s what advocacy is all about.

They take pride in maintaining the highest level of excellence in customer service and quality standards, and it is this commitment to providing a high level of service that has garnered such undeniable success and longevity, and a standard that we can all look towards for inspiration in our own endeavours.
We’re looking forward to having you on board, and seeing how we can build a better foodservice industry together.

Visit CV Garlic

Welcome latest Partner Member: CV Garlic

August 2023

As a company that is constantly seeking higher quality standards for their clients, they know as well as anyone that advocacy and a collaborative effort is needed to achieve real results. We’re looking forward to combining our expertise and helping achieve great things together.

If you like to know more, visit

Welcome our latest Supporter Member: Blackbook Recruitment

July 2023

Their dedication to cohesively working alongside businesses and job seekers for the purpose of thriving together is a modus operandi that we have always valued as well. Collaboration and corroboration of ideas is core to how we develop our projects, and having a business like Blackbook sign up as a supporting member, that shares that same vision, is a pairing that has the ability to make great things happen.

Visit Blackbook Recruitment

Welcome SolBox, the newest Member of the AFAB!

July 2023

We're thrilled to announce our partnership with SolBox, whose industry-leading last-mile delivery optimisation platform for distributors is one of the many products we appreciate for it’s industry improving effects. With a proven track record of advancing operational logistics workflow, SolBox has reduced vehicle running costs and the need for tedious labour throughout the supply chain. Not only does this improve the distributor's bottom line, but it also transforms the quality of life for all stakeholders in the Foodservice Industry.

SolBox empowers businesses to easily embrace delivery automation

Top 5 Trends in Australian Foodservice

July 2023

If you're curious about the latest trends in Australian foodservice, then you won't want to miss our new blog post. Covering everything from sustainable practices to the rising demand for plant-based options, our Top 5 Trends guide explores the biggest changes happening in the industry today. Consumers are looking for new and exciting experiences, and businesses are responding with a focus on transparency and technology. It's an exciting time for foodservice, as we innovate and adapt to meet the changing needs of our customers.

Stay ahead of the curve, head on over to our latest blog post and check out the Top 5 Trends in Australian Foodservice today!

Read our blog here

Welcome back All G Foods as a renewed Founding Member!

July 2023

Their innovative approach to cultured dairy product manufacturing has not only unlocked untapped potential for proteins, but it also aligns with our commitment to sustainability in the foodservice industry. With precision fermentation and plant-based technology, ALL G Foods has made impressive strides in animal-free dairy product production.

Thank you, ALL G, for your continued dedication to making positive change in the food industry.

Visits All G Foods

01 July changes: what you need to know

June 2023

It’s been a big year for changes in areas like people management, pay and tax. Here’s a rundown of some key changes that will come into effect 1 July and what they mean for your business and your employees.

Super guarantee increases, Wages go up, Fair work commission changes, Paid parental leave changes, Childcare subsidies, Domestic violence leave introduced and Energy bill relief on its way

Read the article

We welcome Lessn as a new Member!

June 2023

Bringing with them their impressive financial expertise across the industry, Lessn helps 1,000s of suppliers and Australian businesses improve cash flow, and assists with on time payments through their innovative B2B payment platform. Offering unique ways to help foodservice businesses improve their payment processes through early payment discounts and an informative dashboard.

Discover new processes of running a business in the foodservice space

A warm welcome to Primo FS for renewing their Founding Membership!

June 2023

It is no small feat that their own dedicated founders - beginning their journey as a humble local butchery - have grown the business over the last sixty years to become Australia's leading provider of ham, bacon and smallgoods, while also developing a presence in over 15 countries with 400 facilities and offices. We are particularly thrilled to note Primo's unwavering commitment to sustainability, an ethos which aligns perfectly with our own plans to help businesses reduce waste across the foodservice industry.

We look forward to working closely with Primo Foodservice

AFAB expresses concerns regarding increasing costs of doing business amidst minimum wage hike and rising interest rates

June 2023

Effective 1st July 2023, the minimum wage will be raised by 5.75%, resulting in a substantial increase in labour costs for foodservice establishments. While we recognize the importance of providing fair compensation to workers, this significant rise in minimum wage has placed an undue burden on businesses already grappling with a host of operational challenges, and we worry that since foodservice retail and wholesale prices continue to be heavily inflated YoY we believe that a wage price spiral is all but inevitable.

Read the Media Release

Are business owners passing on costs to customers?

June 2023

Tony Green, CEO of the Australian Food Service Advocacy Body, which was established two years ago to help rebuild the industry during the coronavirus pandemic says 'tipping culture does appear to be changing'. Mr Green, who worked in hospitality as a chef for more than a decade, says, while tipping remains voluntary in Australia, he has seen an uptick in venues encouraging the practice.

'It is a really tough time at the moment, for everybody: customers, front of house, employers,'
he said. 'Starting from a really tough place coming out of COVID, and then with the cost of doing business and inflation, I can understand why more businesses have been trying to ask for tips.'

Read full article here

We are delighted to extend our sincerest gratitude to Comcater for renewing their Founding Membership with AFAB!

June 2023

Since 1979, Comcater has been consistently creating smarter foodservice solutions, setting high standards in the industry with their commercial cooking equipment, storage solutions, cleaning equipment and chilling solutions. Their commitment and dedication to serving the foodservice industry is both infectious and inspirational, so we’re extremely happy to have them as an ally in our mission to elevate the foodservice industry to new heights. Thank you, Comcater, for your unwavering support and participation, we look forward to continuing our journey together.

Visit Comcater

We are all excited to welcome Ordermentum as a Member!

May 2023

As the creators of an ingenious ordering and payment platform, Ordermentum brings a wealth of expertise and a flare for innovation to our operation that we’re thrilled to have on board. By improving connections between venues and distributors, Ordermentum has helped us to all work better together by facilitating 3.7 million orders per year, across 37,000+ venues to enable faster and smarter hospitality businesses.

Find out how Ordermentum can assist your business

AFAB talks to our PM Anthony Albanese

May 2023

Great to chat with our PM Anthony Albanese again this time with our Australian Foodservice Advocacy Body Chair, Sissel Rosengren discussing our industries pressure points, cost of doing business, skills shortage & supply chain challenges. Not alot in this budget addressing these issues, so our work continues … onwards!

View article and gallery

We are thrilled to welcome WorkReel as the newest Member

May 2023

WorkReel is an innovative video-centric career marketplace tailored for the hospitality sector. Their platform empowers candidates to showcase their skills and experiences through short-form videos and images, revolutionising the traditional approach of using cover letters and CVs. Additionally, businesses can share engaging videos highlighting their venues and seamlessly connect with and hire talent through our mobile app.

We’re eager to hear their ideas on solving skills and recruitment issues

Our 'Walk & Talk tour' at the FSA Tradeshow

May 2023

We had an incredible time connecting with attendees and taking an inside look at the tradeshow. Check out our photos highlighting the event, as well as the passionate and dedicated individuals who helped us put it all together.

View gallery

How AI is changing hospitality

May 2023

As technology continues to advance, so too does the ways in which it can revolutionise the hospitality industry. One particular area that has seen significant innovation is the implementation of AI to personalise guest experiences. Through the analysis of guests' preferences and past behaviour, AI can tailor experiences to specific tastes to create a unique and exceptional offering.

How AI has the potential to reshape customer experiences

We are thrilled to share the news that Tip Top has renewed their status as one of our Founding Partner Members!

May 2023

As a partner, Tip Top consistently demonstrates their dedication to fostering a vibrant community and forward-thinking approach to innovation in foodservice. Their commitment to quality and service as one of Australia’s largest brand names is second to none, and we are continually impressed by their ability to not only meet but exceed our expectations. We are proud to stand alongside Tip Top as we work to create a lasting impact in the industry, and we look forward to what lies ahead as we continue to grow our partnership. Here's to Tip Top - thank you for your unwavering support!

Visit Tip Top Foodservice

Welcome to the AFAB family, Pablo & Rusty's Coffee Roasters!

May 2023

As experts in the Australian coffee industry, having their own locations in Sydney & Brisbane and 100’s of direct customer all over Australia, their knowledge of the Australian foodservice landscape is truly valuable to us. Not only that, but their shared passion for improving the foodservice industry aligns perfectly with our values here at AFAB.

Let's raise a cup of coffee to new beginnings and exciting possibilities

A huge welcome is in order for McCormick Foods Australia

April 2023

As a company taking the way we eat to new heights, it’s an absolute pleasure to announce them as a new Member of AFAB! Their purpose is to stand together for the future of flavour, and we’re more than delighted to be standing alongside them, and take Australian Foodservice to a better place.

See their range of herbs & spices, seasonings and recipes

It’s a pleasure to announce that Cookers Bulk Oil System have renewed their founding Membership

April 2023

As one of the most successful companies at providing sustainable oils, we’re over the moon to continue to work side by side in coming up with new and innovative ways to improve our industry’s sustainability practices. Thank you for your continued support!

Visit our Founding Partner's website

Australia’s foodservice dollar revealed

March 2023

Foodservice professionals gathered together on 22 March 2023 at SGK’s new HQ in Sydney’s Macquarie Park to attend the AFAB Market Update, which saw five panelists weigh in on the overall state of the industry. The speakers discussed everything from macro economics to the importance of effective messaging, the findings from the State of Play report as well as AFAB’s policy priorities for the coming months.

Get the insights!

We're excited to announce that Luxfoods as a new Member

March 2023

They are the WA foodbrokers that have tirelessly dedicated themselves to helping businesses thrive with various promotions, bonus stock and samples, which makes them the supportive, success driven foodservice experts we can't wait to work with.

Check them out for more information

We’re over the moon that Mutti has renewed Membership for 2023

March 2023

With a 120 year long history, Mutti has been through it all. Having a business on board who truly knows where we’ve come from is the perfect partner to help shape where we’re going.

The future of the foodservice industry is brighter with Mutti at our side

Welcome Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group

March 2023

With 51 restaurants, 2,100 staff operating in 3 different countries, Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group are experts in creating unique, daring, and bold productions in the hospitality and foodservice industries.

Find out what makes their addition such a special partnership

SYDNEY: Foodservice market update event

March 2023

Join us on the 21 March for an informative live event where we’ll cover all the new and exciting changes coming to the Foodservice industry for Q1 of 2023.

Be informed. Keep updated. Stay ahead.

We’ll be at SGK - Suite 1, Ground Floor, 1 Innovation Road Macquarie Park

Get your tickets now here

Food Waste Action Week

March 2023

It’s #FoodWasteActionWeek! In Australia, we know that at least a 30% reduction in household food waste is required to achieve the goal of halving food waste by 2030. This week is about showing how saving food at home can help save money, time and the planet. This year’s theme is “Win. Don’t Bin” and is about sharing the practical ways we can make the food we’ve bought go further.

Join our AFAB Members in reducing food waste this week

Welcome aboard Meyer Food Co!

March 2023

The wonderful people at Meyer Food specialise in sous vide foods manufacturing while also offering a wider range of bespoke end-to-end food solutions, making them a wealth of knowledge and an important partner in bettering Australia’s foodservice industry. We can’t wait to see all the things we can accomplish together!

For more info, visit Meyer Food Co

Welcome back Bega Foodservice as our Founding Partner Member

February 2023

A titan in the foodservice industry, and an invaluable partner when it comes to improving the landscape of our industry. Their expertise, experience and insights have helped tremendously in shaping our efforts to advocate for foodservice businesses big and small.

Check out Bega Foodservice

Why AFAB?

February 2023

Not only are we constantly working to improve life for businesses in the foodservice industry by advocating for better standards, but we provide a support network and knowledgebase to help grow and optimise operations for foodservice businesses. We unlock the potential of Australia’s foodservice sector and support businesses through 4 key industry-improving initiatives resourced by AFAB Members:

Commercial - Data, Trends & Insights
Attraction & Retention - Workforce
Sustainability - Food Waste
Best Practice Education

Learn more about our efforts in these industry-improving projects

Welcoming our newest Member Moka Foods!

February 2023

We’re over the moon to introduce Moka Foods. Their 30+ year long history has given them a first hand look at how our industry has evolved over the years, making them an important voice in helping shape a brighter future for us all. Plus they make a mean potato cake.

Learn all about Moka Foods and their rich history

We are thrilled to announce KraftHeinz as an AFAB Company Member

February 2023

With a head office in Australia's food hub Melbourne, Kraft Heinz have a dedicated team of foodservice professionals ready to work with you. Across Australia and New Zealand, the company operates 9 world-class factories and employs approximately 2,400 people. Globally, they have access to a network of 88 factories making the business one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world.

Check out the range of foodservice products that customers know and love

We are thrilled to announce Huhtamaki as an AFAB Company Member

February 2023

Huhtamaki is a key global provider of sustainable packaging solutions for consumers around the world, enabling wellbeing and convenience. Their innovative products protect on-the-go and on-the-shelf food and beverages, ensuring hygiene and safety, and help prevent food waste. Embeding sustainability in everything they do. Committed to achieving carbon neutral production and designing all products to be recyclable, compostable or reusable by 2030.

Find out how they are protecting food, people and the planet

We are thrilled to welcome Pasta Italia as an AFAB Company Member

February 2023

Pasta Italia was established in 1997 by my Deni's parents Pasquale & Maria Rapattoni. In 2003 Pasta Italia was reborn with Deni & Josie at the reign, continuing the family traditions. The family passion has always been food, they love to eat it, cook it and share it.

Check out the range of authentic products

We are thrilled to announce Bear Robotics as an AFAB Company Member

February 2023

Bear Robotics is the brainchild of restaurant experts and tech entrepreneurs. They understand the hospitality space because it’s where they started, getting their hands on everything from waiting tables to washing dishes. And when faced with busy work, they found a better way forward. Now, engineering smarter solutions allow servers to excel by automating repetitive tasks and elevating restaurant experiences. And they are doing it with robots.

Learn more by visiting

We thank our Founding Members