The Australian meat and seafood supplier, Thomas Foods International (TFI), has acquired full ownership of local peer and family business Frew Foods International. This deal, for an undisclosed sum, grants TFI complete control over Frew’s meat processing plant.
Frew, based in Stawell, will now operate as Thomas Foods International Stawell, functioning as a wholly-owned subsidiary of TFI’s global group of companies. While Frew’s managing director Robert Frew will depart from the business, the local management team, led by plant manager Shane Wittmann, will remain in place.
TFI, headquartered in Dulwich, South Australia, is a renowned processor of lamb, mutton, beef, goat, and seafood. In addition to its traditional products, TFI has expanded its range to include plant-based alternatives since last year.
Established in 1988, TFI supplies retailers such as Woolworths in Australia and Tesco in the UK. Its distribution network also reaches the US and Asia. On the other hand, Frew, a 39-year-old wholesaler, supplies lamb, mutton, and goat meat products to major supermarkets and butchers across Australia. Furthermore, Frew exports its products to over 85 countries.
With this acquisition, TFI and Frew anticipate growth opportunities in national and international markets. TFI’s Managing Director, Darren Thomas, expresses excitement about expanding operations within Stawell and making significant long-term investments in line with their plans.
As part of this transition, TFI is committed to investing approximately A$100m ($66.5m) in upgrading the Stawell facility. This will support an increase in the workforce, creating around 750 full-time jobs.
Robert Frew, departing from the business, expresses confidence in leaving Frew in capable hands. He highlights the longstanding relationship between the families and TFI’s committed partnership since acquiring a 50% stake in the company.