Goodman Fielder invests $22 million in state-of-the-art Crest Poultry Hatchery facility

It is a milestone achievement for the country today as Goodman Fielder Group opened its state-of-the-art Crest Poultry Hatchery facility at Waila Feeder Road worth $22 million.

Goodman Fielder General Manager Tim Carter says the new facility is only the second of its type to be ever commissioned in the world, and Fiji should be proud of that.

He says the state-of-the-art facility will not only bring new levels of quality and productivity but also bring security of employment, which is a key for them.

He adds there are 1,200 employees here in Fiji, and Crest has been serving Fiji for over 40 years.

The General Manager says they want to be here for another 100 years, so they continue to invest in the long term.

He says they also see this as an opportunity to continue to grow their business domestically, and they also want to continue to grow their export markets in the Pacific.

While officiating at the opening of the new facility, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica says the new hatchery is a testament to innovation, investment and progress in our nation.

He says the Government recognizes Goodman Fielder for their investment of $22 million in this state-of-the-art facility, and the significant commitment underscores the company's dedication to growth, sustainability and excellence in the Agriculture industry. Kamikamica says the establishment of the Crest Hatchery is not really a construction project, it symbolizes a forward-looking approach towards fostering sustainable practices, supporting local farmers, and generating employment opportunities within our community.

He adds by embracing technological advancement and innovative processes, this facility sets a new standard for efficiency, quality and environmental stewardship within our community.

The Deputy Prime Minister says Goodman Fielder's investment into this facility also extends to positive multiply effects on our Poultry industry particularly on smallholder contract farmers by creating privileges and opportunities within their local supply chain where local farmers have the opportunity to contribute to economic developments and economic resilience in Fiji and the region.

Kamikamica says as a government, they are championing economic diversification and supporting emerging industries, and the Ministry has over the years supported small contract holder farmers that supply to Goodman Fielder under the integrated human resources development program with upgrade and expansion of their sheds and other capital investments.