The local Member of Parliament, Jacqui Dean, opened the extensions to what was the company’s first multi-species site, processing sheep meat, beef and venison.
In May last year SFF decided to build a new venison plant at its Pareora works that was more central to its livestock catchment, and to also expand its cold storage facilities.
This followed the closure of its Christchurch site at Islington, which was leased but included in a redevelopment of a business park.
SFF chief executive Dean Hamilton said it was the most significant investment at Pareora since beef processing was added in the 1960s.
He said a key strategic focus was ensuring the best chain of care, and to achieve that SFF was investing in its plant network to create modern efficiency through higher yields, improved quality and lower costs.
“An important benefit of multi-species processing is improved employment prospects and longer seasons for our people.” Hamilton said.
