The Bega Group is celebrating 125 years with free toasties.
From humble beginnings with dairying starting in the Bega Valley in the 1850’s, the Bega Co-operative Creamery Company was established by local farmers in 1899 with Bega Cheese’s original factory opened in 1900.
Since then the group has grown its brands, earning its place as a staple in kitchens across the country.
Recent consumer research indicates that 91% of Aussies have purchased at least one brand in the Bega portfolio. The cheese products are exported to 40 countries and distributed across Australia where they are available in most supermarkets and general stores.
Executive Chairman of the Bega Group, Barry Irvin, said to encourage the nation to raise a toastie in its honour, Bega Group will be taking over Bega on July 15, its official 125th anniversary, by offering free Bega Cheese and Vegemite toasties at the Bega Heritage Centre.
“We’re very excited to be celebrating Bega Group’s 125th birthday, of course we’re celebrating in the home town of the company in Bega and what better way that with a Vegemite and cheese toastie,” Irvin said.
“I’m extraordinarily proud to reach 125 years, obviously it’s not done alone, we do it with our farmers, with our customers, our staff, so a great milestone and we look forward to many more beyond this point.”
From a small dairy cooperative in Bega, NSW to a leading player in the Australian food industry, Bega Group’s journey has been a big one.
“Proudly bringing treasured brands back to Australian ownership, the Group’s remarkable success is a testament to the enduring support of generations of Australians,” a company spokesperson said.
“Their love for the many flavours in the Bega Group portfolio has helped create 125 years of delicious memories.”
The Bega Group includes brands such as the VEGEMITE and Bega Peanut Butter, acquired in 2017, as well as Dairy Farmers, Dare, Farmers Union Greek Style Yogurt, Farmers Union Iced Coffee, Pura, Masters, Big M, Daily Juice, Zooper Dooper, Mildura, Prima and more through the 2021 acquisition of the Lion Dairy & Drinks business.
Today, Bega Group is one of the largest FMCG businesses listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, operating in over 40 countries with over 34 brands. With manufacturing sites spread around Australia, from Melbourne to Perth and as far north as Malanda, Queensland, Bega Group now employs approximately 3,800 people and generates revenue of over $3 billion per annum.
Reflecting on the Group’s 125th anniversary milestone, Barry Irvin said, “Our success would not be possible without the support of Australia.”
“As we celebrate this milestone with a toastie or two, we look forward to continuing to build on our legacy with new products and sustainable practices that meet the evolving needs of our consumers.”
Images: Bega Group
