Australian Navy Bean producers, including some that have been supplying SPC since World War II are fearing a possible end to the industry following Tony Abbott’s decision to refuse funding to the troubled fruit and vegetable processor, SPCA.
SPC Ardmona had been promised $25 million in funding by the labor government following fears that the cannery would close without government assistance. However, Abbott’s announcement last week confirmed speculation that the Liberal government would not be honouring labour’s pledge.
"The reality is that the navy bean industry would close … would finish," Bean Growers Australia managing director Lloyd Neilsen told ABC News.
SPC launched its 100 percent Australian grown baked beans product in July last year creating contracts for navy bean farmers in Kingaroy and Atherton in Queensland, and the Riverina district in NSW.
The launch marked the first time that an Australian brand had committed to sourcing 100 percent Australian grown inputs for a baked bean product – a decision that was welcomed by local suppliers that had been affected by the influx of cheap foreign imports.
SPC Ardmona’s Shepparton plant is the only baked bean cannery in Australia and processes almost of all of the nation’s locally grown navy beans.