Welcoming new Standard member: Food Stax Australia

Dec 2024

With over 200+ hospitality outlets, Food Stax is revolutionising the way businesses access high-quality food at competitive prices.
As one of the most influential players in hospitality, Food Stax operates on a trusted and audited business model that prioritises its members' success. By leveraging their unmatched scale, members benefit from access to preferred suppliers, unbeatable prices, and exclusive specials—driving profitability and efficiency across the board. 
Supported by a $560 million liquor business, Food Stax has helped it's members unlock significant profit growth while enabling chefs and managers to focus on innovation and the ultimate customer experience. This partnership marks a significant milestone for AFAB, further strengthening our hospitality network. 
Visit Food Stax

 

Welcoming new Individual member: Dineshkumar Subramani

Dec 2024

We’re thrilled to introduce our newest individual member, Dineshkumar Subramani, an experienced Catering Manager whose career spans over 17 years in the hospitality industry. From leading hotel services at Mecwacare to training aspiring chefs at the National Training College of Australia, Dineshkumar has continually demonstrated his dedication to excellence in foodservice. 
Dineshkumar's expertise lies in catering, budgeting, food & beverage management, and operations. His role as a Regional Hotel Services Manager showcases his leadership in handling multi-site operations, ensuring safety compliance, and delivering exceptional customer satisfaction. His experience also includes innovative training programs that empower teams and elevate service standards. 
As a Cookery Trainer, Assessor, and Director at ADMS Training Kitchen, he combines his passion for teaching and culinary arts, nurturing talent and helping shape the future of the industry. And let’s not forget his entrepreneurial spirit—Dineshkumar runs a YouTube channel, DineshKitchen, sharing his culinary expertise with a global audience. 
Dineshkumar’s contributions extend beyond kitchens to driving operational planning, project management, and elder care services, showcasing his versatile skill set. He brings a wealth of knowledge, a proven track record of innovation, and a deep commitment to excellence that will undoubtedly enrich our community. 
Visit Dineshkumar’s profile

 

Australian Hotelier: A deep dive into Australia’s foodservice landscape!

Nov 2024

The November issue of Australian Hotelier is online now, looking at the status of the foodservice industry across Australia, the new trend of celebrity chefs in pubs, wine's growing presence in pubs, and so much more! 
Check it out

 

Primo Foodservice 2025 Planning Days

Nov 2024

We were thrilled to contribute to the Primo Foodservice 2025 Planning Days, sharing key insights, trends, and data from our latest State of Play Report 2024.
A big thank you to Barton Beverley-Smith and the Primo Foodservice team for the warm welcome and for fostering such an engaged, energetic environment. Together, we’re shaping the future of Australia’s foodservice industry!
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Catering toolkit: Don't let your profits go to waste

Nov 2024

AFAB proudly advocates for sustainability, taking bold steps to combat food waste and drive eco-friendly practices. Our latest initiative supports the comprehensive toolkit developed by End Food Waste Australia, which outlines actionable strategies for catering businesses to save food, reduce costs, and minimise environmental impact.
Key takeaways:
  • Simple changes, like separating and measuring food waste, can cut waste by up to 30%.
  • Reducing and recycling food waste helps save natural resources and combat climate change, as food in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
  • AFAB is committed to supporting these sustainable practices as part of our goal to halve food waste by 2030.
  • Get everyone involved! Reducing food waste requires team effort. 
View the toolkit

 

Welcoming new Standard Member: FOBOH 

Nov 2024

We’re excited to introduce our newest standard member, FOBOH, a forward-thinking digital solution that helps suppliers grow and scale in the competitive food distribution industry. FOBOH empowers food distributors and manufactures to retain customers, deepen relationships, boost revenue, and operate more efficiently with their innovative technology. With their powerful AI-driven platform, FOBOH simplifies wholesale ordering by automatically extracting sales orders from emails—including body text and attachments—and seamlessly integrating them into downstream systems. Their mission is clear: to create a smarter, simpler, and more sustainable wholesale ecosystem. 
Visit FOBOH

 

Shorter menus could reduce food waste and save cafes thousands: study

Oct 2024

A recent study led by RMIT University for End Food Waste Australia has revealed that simplifying menus can help small to medium-sized cafes significantly reduce food waste and save thousands of dollars. Our CEO, Tony Green, commented, 'With the rising costs of doing business putting pressure on the hospitality sector, we're proud to contribute to this impactful report aimed at reducing waste and, in turn, lowering food costs.' The research highlights that one of the main drivers of waste and reduced profitability is the difficulty in finding time to plan and streamline menus, coupled with the tendency to overproduce food. 
Read the study

 

Welcome new Supporter Member: National Media

Oct 2024

National Media is a leading platform that connects businesses and professionals, providing access to insights, trends, and opportunities across various industries. Their commitment to innovation and engagement helps businesses discover new products, meet customers and forge valuable partnerships. Their expansion into the Food & Beverage sector with the launch of Foodservice & Hospitality Week. This premier event will incorporate Foodservice Australia, Commercial Kitchen Show, Pizza Pasta & Italian Food Show, Restaurant Technology Show, and much more, setting a new standard for industry events.
Visit National Media

 

AFAB Member Christmas Party

Oct 2024

The Australian Foodservice Advocacy Body invites all members to a festive afternoon of barefoot bowls to celebrate the holiday season! Bring your team to Wenty Leagues for an afternoon of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a friendly game of barefoot bowls. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect, and toast to the year ahead with industry friends!
Proudly supported by Tip Top FS & Inghams FS
Get your tickets here

 

Webinar 06 Nov: Unlock the future of Australian Foodservice with Big Data

Oct 2024

Join us for an exclusive Members-only webinar where you'll get an early preview of BRIZO FoodMetrics, a state-of-the-art AI-powered data platform specifically created for the Australian and New Zealand foodservice industry. Learn how this powerful tool can help you identify new business opportunities, boost your sales, and stay ahead of market trends.
AFAB Members Only: Plus, receive a $1,000 discount on a BRIZO annual subscription.
Register for the Webinar

 

Welcome new Standard Member: Flora Food Group 

Oct 2024

As a global leader in plant-based food, Flora Food Group is driven by a passionate team of 4,800 'Flora Foodies' who live their values of 'Performance, Care, and Passion' every day. They deliver natural, nutritious and sustainable food across 100 countries, offering a compelling alternative to dairy products in categories like butters, spreads, creams, and cheeses. With over 150 years of heritage and deep R&D expertise, Flora Food Group’s commitment to sustainability and innovation aligns perfectly with AFAB’s advocacy for sustainable practices in the foodservice industry. Together, we aim to shape a future of nutritious, affordable, and environmentally friendly food solutions.
Flora Food Group’s iconic brands, such as Flora, Becel+ProActiv, Violife and I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter, are enjoyed by millions worldwide. Their dedication to building a sustainable future resonates with AFAB’s mission to advocate for environmentally responsible practices across the food industry.
Visit Flora Food Group

 

Australian dairy authority backed by U.S. family business

Oct 2024

Pure Dairy is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with Great Lakes Cheese!
This collaboration marks a significant milestone, strengthening their global footprint while reinforcing their commitment to delivering premium Australian dairy products. Preparing to launch their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Dandenong South, this partnership opens doors for expanded export opportunities and innovation in dairy production. With their expertise driving operations locally, this partnership positions them at the forefront of a new era for Australian dairy, ready to meet the growing demand both domestically and internationally.
Read the full announcement here

 

2024 NSW Visitor Economy Forum at ICC Sydney

Oct 2024

Wes Lambert, AFAB’s Deputy Chair, had the pleasure of attending the 2024 NSW Visitor Economy Forum at ICC Sydney, hosted by Destination New South Wales. The event brought together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to explore the growing interest in authentic, interactive experiences under the theme ‘Experience NSW.’ Special thanks to Steve Cox for the invitation and to the Hon John Graham, Minister of Jobs & Tourism, for the insightful welcome.
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Business failures at the highest rate in more than three years

Oct 2024

Great job Luke Achterstraat representing small business which is a big part of our Foodservice industries front end on the national stage. AFAB are proud members of Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) for this reason. Continuing to focus on cost of doing business, energy, rent & insurance increased costs is the right direction to ease pressure and help reduce closure rates being at their highest rate in over three years.
Watch the 5-minute interview here

 

Welcome new Partner Member: Unilever Food Solutions (UFS)

Oct 2024

We're excited to share the news that Unilever Food Solutions has upgraded their Membership as a Partner Member! Unilever Food Solutions has a strong presence in the foodservice industry here and overseas and is known for collaborating with chefs to develop new recipes, enhance flavours, and provide valuable resources to the culinary community.
Visit their website to learn more about UFS

 

AFAB State of Play 2024 Launch Breakfast!

Sep 2024

It was an incredible morning at the AFAB State of Play 2024 Launch Breakfast! Thank you to our panelists: Emma Whitting (Miller Leith), Simon Jackson (Compass Group Australia), Jason Ferreira (Bunzl Australia & New Zealand), Vladimir Kalmanovich (KPMG Australia) and Adam Theobald (Ordermentum) for sharing such valuable insights on the pressing challenges and opportunities in Australia’s foodservice sector. From inflation and supply chain disruptions to sustainability and labour shortages, the discussions were thought-provoking and offered a fresh perspective on building resilience and agility in the industry. Excited to see how these insights will drive future growth and innovation!
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Now available for purchase: AFAB 2024 State of Play Report

Sep 2024

We’re thrilled to have officially launched our third State of Play Report at Fine Food Australia! This year’s report sets a new standard in foodservice data, laying the foundation for three key industry projects: Attraction and Retention, Sustainability and Advocacy.
Together, we are unlocking the potential of the entire Australian foodservice supply chain.
Discover more about the report here

 

Queensland Professional Chef of the Year 2024!

Sep 2024

Antoine Potier wins Queensland Chef of the Year!
Antoine is Sous Chef at the highly awarded Restaurant Dan Arnold in Brisbane. Many congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! We are excited to see what culinary excellence Antoine will bring to the table next. Please join us in celebrating his outstanding achievement!
See the results here

 

Australia's food manufacturing industry worries rising costs will push supermarkets to use more imports

Sep 2024

Australia’s food manufacturing industry is under pressure as rising imports challenge its competitiveness. With increasing production costs, many local manufacturers are contemplating moving operations offshore, which could impact domestic jobs and economic activity.
Our Member, Valuestream, highlights the importance of cost insight and optimisation to help local manufacturers find efficiencies and stay competitive.
Read the full article here

 

Welcome new Standard Member: Ribs and Roast

Sep 2024

With 35 years of combined experience in sous vide cooking, Ribs and Roast is dedicated to delivering niche products cooked to perfection every time. They have built strong relationships with top produce suppliers across Australia, ensuring that they consistently start with the highest quality ingredients for their exceptional dishes. Ribs and Roast's commitment to quality and excellence has made them a trusted name in the industry, providing a unique culinary experience that stands out in the market.
Visit Ribs and Roast

 

The End Food Waste Australia Summit: Action plans for foodservice

Sep 2024

We are grateful to Carolyn Cameron, Sarah Hughes and Sam Oakden for the opportunity to discuss our Sector Action Plans for Foodservice. The End Food Waste Australia Summit was a resounding success, creating numerous connections and collaboration opportunities for the Australian Foodservice Advocacy Body. Well done to everyone involved!
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Welcome new Supporter Member: Lactalis Australia

Sep 2024

Lactalis Australia, part of the Lactalis Group, the world’s largest fresh dairy company is a proud family-owned business with a rich heritage. Headquartered in France, the Lactalis Group operates over 250 production sites worldwide and employs 85,000 people across 90 countries.
In Australia, Lactalis sources milk from across the country, with a dedicated team of 2,200 employees producing around 1 billion kilograms of dairy products annually. Their impressive portfolio includes renowned brands such as Pauls, OAK, Ice Break, Tamar Valley Dairy, Vaalia, President and Galbani. With a deep national footprint, Lactalis Australia is committed to growth and prosperity while upholding family values, passion, and heritage. They prioritise animal welfare, quality, and reliability, collaborating closely with farmers and suppliers to meet the sector’s sustainability challenges and community expectations.
Visit Lactalis Australia website

 

The hidden cost of food waste in the foodservice industry

Aug 2024

Food waste is a pressing issue that affects various sectors worldwide, with the foodservice industry being a significant contributor. This blog explores the hidden costs of food waste in the Australian foodservice industry, shedding light on the need for urgent and effective measures to mitigate this challenge.
Read the article

 

2024 National Food Waste Summit

Aug 2024

Food waste is a critical issue for us at the Australian Foodservice Advocacy Body and the entire foodservice industry, given its significant environmental and financial impacts, especially in these challenging times. Join us on 24-25 July at the End Food Waste Australia Summit, where our CEO, Tony Green CFSP, and other esteemed panelists will discuss the 'Power of Collaboration' in our Sector Action Plans. We look forward to seeing you there! 
Register here

 

Our esteemed Founding Member, Bega Group, is celebrating 125 years!

Aug 2024

From humble beginnings as a Bega Valley Co-op to a top 300 ASX listed organisation with great ambitions, Bega Group’s journey is a story of vision and dedication. As they reflect on 125 years at the Bega Group, they are grateful for the journey that has shaped them into the company that is today. Thank you to everyone who has been part of our story. 
Raise a Toastie to 125 Years

 

SOPR 2024: Data trends and insights in foodservice

Aug 2024

We had a fantastic session with our Supporter Member, Real Dairy Australia, discussing the latest data trends and insights in foodservice from our State of Play Report 2024. A big thank you to Tas Chronis and Lui Rojas for inviting us to your FY25 planning session. It's inspiring to see your team doing amazing work!
See the post

 

Welcome new Supporter Member: Golden State Foods 

Aug 2024

With a rich history dating back to 1947, Golden State Foods is one of the largest diversified suppliers in the foodservice industry. Headquartered in Irvine, California, GSF is a values-based company renowned for its superior quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service. Serving over 150 leading brands and more than 125,000 restaurants and stores from 50 locations across five continents, Golden State Foods is a global powerhouse. Their core businesses include processing and distributing liquid products, protein, produce, dairy, and more. Employing approximately 6,000 associates and being 100% management-owned and operated, Golden State Foods exemplifies dedication and excellence. Their national non-profit organisation, the GSF Foundation, further highlights their commitment to making a positive impact.
Viist Golden State Foods Australia

 

Welcome new Standard Member: Marketing Bee®

Jul 2024

Marketing Bee is an award-winning food marketing agency with highly skilled FMCG and food marketers. With offices in Melbourne and Sydney, Marketing Bee excels in creating impactful marketing solutions for the food industry. Their Melbourne office boasts a three-level FMCG studio designed specifically for their team to craft exceptional content. From design projects to complete brand management solutions, Marketing Bee is equipped to handle and scale projects of all sizes. With a team of experts dedicated to driving success in the food marketing sector, Marketing Bee offers innovative and effective strategies to elevate brands and engage consumers.
Visit Marketing Bee

 

Welcome new Standard Member: FreshFood Services

Jul 2024

With over 60 years of experience in transforming premium beans into exquisite coffee, FreshFood Services is Australia’s leading coffee manufacturer. They provide complete business coffee solutions, offering coffee in all its forms - from coffee beans to roast and ground coffee, unique coffee bags to pulverised and soluble coffee. FreshFood Services caters to a wide range of businesses including cafes, restaurants, hospitals, offices, hotels, and retail outlets. Their passion for producing consistently great coffee ensures that they have the perfect coffee solution for any business need. Whether you need coffee, equipment, or service to help grow your business, FreshFood Services is your coffee expert. Discover which of their brands is right for your business today!
Visit FreshFood Services

 

Inflation hits 3.8 per cent for June quarter

Jun 2024

Australia's annual inflation rate rose to 3.8% in the June quarter, impacting housing and food costs significantly. This increase raises concerns for the foodservice industry as it leads to higher prices for ingredients and operational costs. The RBA has not ruled out further interest rate hikes, adding financial pressure on businesses.
Read the article here

 

Skynews: Food industry under growing pressure

June 2024

Our Co-founder and Chair, Sissel Rosengren, recently gave an interview on Sky News Australia. Are we seeing light at the end of the tunnel? What are your thoughts?
Watch the interview here

 

The hidden cost of food waste in the foodservice industry

June 2024

Food waste is a pressing issue that affects various sectors worldwide, with the foodservice industry being a significant contributor. This blog explores the hidden costs of food waste in the Australian foodservice industry, shedding light on the need for urgent and effective measures to mitigate this challenge. 
Read the blog here

 

The realities and rewards of an effective cost-to-serve strategy

June 2024

AFAB Member Valuestream is hosting a webinar on Realities and Rewards of an Effective Cost-to-Serve Strategy on Thursday, 20 June at 11am (AEST) where Ian Robertson will share practical knowledge on the intricacies of establishing a systematic cost-to-serve program, and how it can significantly enhance profitability when implemented effectively.
More info and registration here

 

Welcoming AFAB’s new Standard member: Valuestream 

June 2024

We're thrilled to introduce Valuestream to our community! Valuestream specialises in providing unparalleled cost insight and optimisation solutions for manufacturers and distributors.
Through their strategic partnership with 3C Software and the industry-leading ImpactECS enterprise cost system, Valuestream empowers businesses to enhance their financial performance with data-driven decision-making.
Valuestream's mission is to revolutionise cost management. With deep expertise in the manufacturing and distribution sectors, they understand the unique challenges faced by organisations striving for operational excellence and improved profitability.
Valuestream is focused on building long-term partnerships and delivering successful outcomes and ROI. Their human approach ensures that they work closely with clients to achieve the best results.
Whether you need to streamline processes, optimise your supply chain, identify unprofitable customers and products, or enhance quoting and pricing strategies, Valuestream provides the expertise and tools you need to succeed.

Visit Valuestream

 

Hospo heavyweights say ‘enough is enough’ as they launch lobby group to save embattled $64b industry

May 2024

Deputy Chair of AFAB, Wes Lambert CPA, FGIA, CAE, MAICD has launched the Australian Restaurant & Cafe Association (ARCA). Recently, prominent figures in the hospitality industry have been working to establish ARCA, which aims to advocate to the government on various issues affecting restaurants and cafes, including skilled worker immigration, wages, taxes, and outdoor dining regulations.
See the release here

 

Trans-Australian Railway to be flood-proofed as part of $1 billion program to grow rail network resilience

May 2024

Exciting News for the the Foodservice sector.  The Trans-Australian Railway, a vital east-west rail link, is set to undergo a significant transformation as part of a $1 billion investment program aimed at boosting the resilience of our national rail network.
See the release here

 

Welcoming AFAB’s NEW Supporter member: Givaudan

May 2024

We're excited to introduce Givaudan to our community! As a global leader in fragrance, beauty, taste, and wellbeing, Givaudan is dedicated to creating happier and healthier lives with a love for nature. With a commitment to delivering exceptional food experiences, crafting inspired fragrances, and developing beauty and wellbeing solutions, Givaudan collaborates with customers to make people look and feel good. Join us in welcoming Givaudan to our community! We look forward to the innovative and inspiring collaborations ahead. 
Visit Givaudan

 

End Food Waste Australia 

May 2024

In catering, 20% of the food served is never eaten, with real costs for businesses, for people and the planet. AFAB is a signing signatory of End Food Waste Australia and they are leading the development of Sector Action Plans as a key tool to reduce food waste through collaboration across the supply chain. This Sector Action Plan was funded by Green Industries South Australia (GISA) and developed with partners across the supply chain, including catering companies. Rawtec was engaged to collect data to provide a better understanding of food waste volumes and origins in the Australian catering sector.
View Catering Food Waste Action Plan

 

AFAB member, John McFadden at the World Food Championships!

May 2024

Despite going solo against teams of three for two years, he's emerged with an impressive record: 2 x World Seafood Titles, 1 World Food Title, and a remarkable 3rd place overall in the recent Final Table event. John's message? Back yourself, do your homework, practice, research, and be prepared to give it your all to be the best. Let's celebrate John's incredible achievements and take inspiration from his dedication and perseverance! 
View the news

 

AFAB at Parliament House and the Budget dinner! 

May 2024

Our CEO Tony Green CFSP, along with our chair Sissel Rosengren, had the privilege of meeting key political figures including Michael McCormack, MP Bridget Archer, Senior Advisor to the Shadow Minister, Senator Jane Hume, Trade & Tourism Minister Don Farrell, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The focus of discussion was how the current migration, jobs, skills and education plans are misaligned with achieving the best outcomes for our Foodservice sector. It was essential to have a seat at the table, and while much work remains, we are committed to driving positive change for our industry.
View the highlights

 

Welcoming AFAB’s NEW Standard member: Suncoast Fresh

May 2024

We're thrilled to introduce Suncoast Fresh to our community! As an owner-operated business with nearly 20 years of experience, Suncoast Fresh prides itself on being true produce professionals. At Suncoast Fresh, the link between farm and table isn't just a concept—it's a way of life. Their dedicated and friendly staff are committed to delivering the freshest and highest quality produce to the food service industry. Well-recognised among the best chefs in the business, Suncoast Fresh has built a reputation for excellence and reliability. Their passion for produce ensures that every delivery meets the high standards of their esteemed clients.
Visit Suncoast Fresh

 

2024 Employment & Salary Guide Survey

May 2024

The 2024 Employment & Salary Guide Survey by Miller Leith is now live! Your input will shape Australia's job market and directly influence the annual Employment & Salary Guide, a trusted resource for organisations and job-seekers. By participating in Miller Leith's 2024 Employment Survey Competition, entrants agree to the Terms and Conditions stipulated on https://lnkd.in/dPpMSaFN.
Share your insights now

 

Women in Foodservice, Brisbane!

April 2024

We had an incredible time at our Women in Foodservice event in Brisbane. It was a morning packed with enriching experiences that left us inspired and empowered.
The day kicked off with Kieran Bradford and the Simon George & Sons team leading us on a fascinating tour through Brisbane markets, giving invaluable insights into the industry. Following that, we dove into a session with CEO Tony Green CFSP and Sissel Rosengren from Food Industry Foresight, where they delved into the latest field insights and discussed the key takeaways from AFAB's State of Play Report.
Jordana Jacklin, from Miller Leith, our esteemed Founding member, then expertly facilitated a captivating panel discussion themed around "Rise Together - Empowering Women in Foodservice." We were privileged to hear inspiring stories and insights from Xanny Christophersen, Toni de Beer, and Patricia Gimber, as they shared their journeys and expertise in mastering negotiation, breaking through barriers, and fostering supportive workplace practices.
The event was a resounding success, thanks to all who attended and contributed to the meaningful conversations. We look forward to the next opportunity to come together and continue our journey of learning and growth!
View the highlights

 

Happy International Plant Power Day!

March 2024

Each year on March 7th, we celebrate Plant Power Day to highlight the advantages of sustainable eating and inspire individuals to adopt plant-based diets. According to preliminary data gathered from the National Nutrition Survey and various studies, it is estimated that approximately 2% of Australians adhere to a vegan lifestyle. This accounts for roughly 500,000 individuals. Let's continue spreading awareness and promoting the benefits of plant-based living!
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