South Australian flour exporter expands into India’s premium hotels

MUMBAI - A South Australian flour company is on track to supply India’s lucrative premium hotel sector after securing a trial agreement while on the State Government led trade mission this week.

Minister for Investment and Trade Martin Hamilton-Smith said Flinders Ranges Premium Grain is a group of wheat growers dedicated to the supply of flour produced from single origin wheat, grown using sustainable environmental practices – which is very attractive to global buyers.

“Food and wine is South Australia’s largest export earner – the state has high quality grains, premium seafood, high quality wines, meat, dairy, fruit and vegetables grown and produced in diverse, pristine natural environments,” Mr Hamilton-Smith said.

Flinders Ranges Premium Grain CEO Peter Barrie said India is its largest market.

“Since 2006 we have been selling flour to food manufacturer Bakers Circle India which supplies quick service restaurant chains including Subway and are negotiating an increase to this supply – we are aiming to treble our exports,” Mr Barrie said.

“India’s insatiable appetite for premium food products has given rise to a complementary market in the rapidly growing premium hotel chain sector.

“This week we struck an agreement to have our flour trialled in three of India’s largest premium hotel chains including the Taj Group, JW Marriot and ITC Hotels.”

“This success follows a contract we won to supply 115 tonnes of flour to Dubai – this is our first export to the Middle East market and was obtained through our Indian trade relationships.

“It is a point of pride that Flinders Ranges Premium Grain is becoming recognised as a premium food company rather than a soft commodity supplier.”

“South Australian wheat growers have an opportunity to value add their product by producing premium flour, which can more than double its value when exported."

Mr Hamilton-Smith led a 60 strong trade delegation in Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai this week to actively seek avenues for business growth.

“Market access for goods, services and investment will ensure economic cooperation between our countries achieves our common goal of strong growth in the region,” Mr Hamilton-Smith said.

“A broad range of sectors were represented including food and wine, arts, education, health, mining and resources, tourism, defence and advanced manufacturing.

“These businesses strengthened their strategic advantage to attract investment, export our premium products and services, and drive jobs growth in South Australia.”

Mr Barrie said there are significant export opportunities in India, but persistence and personal relationship building is the key to success.

“State Government and Austrade led missions are a critical element to our export strategy and have helped to open doors and fast track negotiations,” Mr Barrie said.

Engaging with export markets can also lead to new jobs for South Australians - due to the ongoing success, Flinders Ranges Premium Grain has recently employed an international engagement officer.

On latest figures, India is South Australia’s third largest export market, worth more than $800 million.

Mr Hamilton-Smith said South Australia is embarking on a new chapter for both regions – one of economic integration and partnership, of mutual respect and understanding.

“The Government of South Australia wants to be a leader in this new era of prosperity.”

sourced:traveldailynews.asia