PETER SOMERVILLE, The Weekly Times
INTEGRITY systems, quality and consistency mean Australia is perfectly placed to capitalise on a fast-growing Saudi Arabian meat export market, with opportunities particularly for Australian lamb.
Speaking in Canberra last month, Premier Foods’ manufacturing manager Matthew Robinson, said traceability was king for Australia’s access to Middle Eastern markets, particularly driving the country’s historically reliable access to Saudi Arabian consumers.
Premier Foods’ customers in Saudi Arabia include Subway, Dominos and Emirates — reflecting what Mr Robinson said was a growing trend to “fast casual” dining.
Increasing demand for chilled cuts has been driven by a young population of educated people, who are travelling the world and being influenced by social media.
“You’ve almost got double the frequency of eating out in the Middle East compared to here,” Mr Robinson said.
“Couple that with the types of cuisines they’re eating and you can see why things such as premium chilled steaks are on the rise.”
Mr Robinson said the business wanted to grow supply volumes, but noted that “consistency is key”.
“We are buoyed by the underlying trend in continual growth in the region, and increasing growth from the hotel industry,” he said.
“Lamb is something we haven’t touched on yet — it’s been more beef focused, but as the most widely consumed red meat in the region it’s something we see great growth potential in.
“There’s lots of opportunities in the high-value food service and it’s really playing to the Australian market’s strength.”
