mmg.com.au

Foodbank Victoria is the immediate beneficiary of a new $14.6million bottling line at Campbell’s Soups, but the investment also secures the next 50 years for the Shepparton plant.

Campbell’s yesterday donated 15000 1.25litre bottles of V8 Juice to Foodbank, equating to 225000 serves of vegetables for Australians in need.

The company was delighted the donation would provide a nutritious boost to the diets of many of the 2.2million Australians living in poverty each day, Campbell’s Australia New Zealand general manager Chris Foley said.

Victorian Deputy Premier Peter Ryan, who officially opened the sterile bottling line, said Campbell’s was one of the first corporations in Australia to sign an agreement with Foodbank and since 2001 has donated more than five million meals.

‘‘In the past seven years, Campbell’s has invested more than $45million upgrading its Shepparton facility which produces more than 55000 tonnes of some of Australia’s favourite food and beverage products each year,’’ he said.

‘‘I congratulate Campbell’s for showing the foresight and commitment to make this major investment, which will help secure the future for this iconic Australian manufacturing site.’’

The Shepparton plant is celebrating its 50th year.

‘‘It is a very significant day for our site and for food manufacturing in this region,’’ Mr Foley said.

‘‘What a momentous way to commence the next 50 years in Shepparton.’’