Bertocchi trots ahead
Upgrade creates local jobs
UPGRADES and new jobs are in store for the Bertocchi Smallgoods depot at Geelong, CEO Peter Paolino says.
The company announced more than 700 jobs and four new sites across Victoria yesterday.
Mr Paolino said the Geelong centre would have storage facilities upgraded, and said work would begin on the facility next year, probably in six to eight months.
He said Geelong jobs would include warehousing and sales people roles.
Mr Paolino staff numbers at Geelong would be increased, but he did not name an exact figure.
“It will be substantial ... it’s all going to have to happen within a year,” Mr Paolino said.
He said Geelong jobs would include warehousing and sales people roles.
He said another space for Bertocchi in Geelong could be considered if necessary.
In addition to the Geelong centre upgrade, the smallgoods manufacturer will splash its piggy bank on a new factory in Melton, as well as upgrading its Thomastown site.
And the pig products will also trot through three new regional distribution centres — the locations of which will be announced in the new year.
Established in 1972, Bertoc- chi is Australia’s third largest smallgoods manufacturer, its products are distributed nationally through Coles, Woolworths and IGA stores and other delicatessens, butcher and food shops.
As part of the $46.7 million project, Bertocchi will invest in new preparation equipment and process improvements for its ham, salami and bacon products, to reflect the changing needs of supermarkets.
“Bertocchi is a staple on the Christmas table for tens-ofthousands of Victorian families and it’s great we’re able to make this announcement in the lead up to the big day,” Employment and Industry Minsiter Ben Carroll said.
“Christmas has come early for us with this investment, it’s a huge vote of confidence in our state, with Bertocchi wanting to spend tens-of-millions of dollars expanding their business, not only in Melbourne but across Victoria.”