Welcoming new Standard member: Food Stax Australia
Welcoming new Standard member: Food Stax Australia
Dec 2024
With over 200+ hospitality outlets, Food Stax is revolutionising the way businesses access high-quality food at competitive prices.
As one of the most influential players in hospitality, Food Stax operates on a trusted and audited business model that prioritises its members' success. By leveraging their unmatched scale, members benefit from access to preferred suppliers, unbeatable prices, and exclusive specials—driving profitability and efficiency across the board.
Supported by a $560 million liquor business, Food Stax has helped it's members unlock significant profit growth while enabling chefs and managers to focus on innovation and the ultimate customer experience. This partnership marks a significant milestone for AFAB, further strengthening our hospitality network.
Welcoming new Individual member: Dineshkumar Subramani
Welcoming new Individual member: Dineshkumar Subramani
Dec 2024
We’re thrilled to introduce our newest individual member, Dineshkumar Subramani, an experienced Catering Manager whose career spans over 17 years in the hospitality industry. From leading hotel services at Mecwacare to training aspiring chefs at the National Training College of Australia, Dineshkumar has continually demonstrated his dedication to excellence in foodservice.
Dineshkumar's expertise lies in catering, budgeting, food & beverage management, and operations. His role as a Regional Hotel Services Manager showcases his leadership in handling multi-site operations, ensuring safety compliance, and delivering exceptional customer satisfaction. His experience also includes innovative training programs that empower teams and elevate service standards.
As a Cookery Trainer, Assessor, and Director at ADMS Training Kitchen, he combines his passion for teaching and culinary arts, nurturing talent and helping shape the future of the industry. And let’s not forget his entrepreneurial spirit—Dineshkumar runs a YouTube channel, DineshKitchen, sharing his culinary expertise with a global audience.
Dineshkumar’s contributions extend beyond kitchens to driving operational planning, project management, and elder care services, showcasing his versatile skill set. He brings a wealth of knowledge, a proven track record of innovation, and a deep commitment to excellence that will undoubtedly enrich our community.
Australian Hotelier: A deep dive into Australia’s foodservice landscape!
Australian Hotelier: A deep dive into Australia’s foodservice landscape!
Nov 2024
The November issue of Australian Hotelier is online now, looking at the status of the foodservice industry across Australia, the new trend of celebrity chefs in pubs, wine's growing presence in pubs, and so much more!
Primo Foodservice 2025 Planning Days
Primo Foodservice 2025 Planning Days
Nov 2024
We were thrilled to contribute to the Primo Foodservice 2025 Planning Days, sharing key insights, trends, and data from our latest State of Play Report 2024.
A big thank you to Barton Beverley-Smith and the Primo Foodservice team for the warm welcome and for fostering such an engaged, energetic environment. Together, we’re shaping the future of Australia’s foodservice industry!
Catering toolkit: Don't let your profits go to waste
Catering toolkit: Don't let your profits go to waste
Nov 2024
AFAB proudly advocates for sustainability, taking bold steps to combat food waste and drive eco-friendly practices. Our latest initiative supports the comprehensive toolkit developed by End Food Waste Australia, which outlines actionable strategies for catering businesses to save food, reduce costs, and minimise environmental impact.
Key takeaways:
- Simple changes, like separating and measuring food waste, can cut waste by up to 30%.
- Reducing and recycling food waste helps save natural resources and combat climate change, as food in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
- AFAB is committed to supporting these sustainable practices as part of our goal to halve food waste by 2030.
- Get everyone involved! Reducing food waste requires team effort.
Welcoming new Standard Member: FOBOH
Welcoming new Standard Member: FOBOH
Nov 2024
We’re excited to introduce our newest standard member, FOBOH, a forward-thinking digital solution that helps suppliers grow and scale in the competitive food distribution industry. FOBOH empowers food distributors and manufactures to retain customers, deepen relationships, boost revenue, and operate more efficiently with their innovative technology. With their powerful AI-driven platform, FOBOH simplifies wholesale ordering by automatically extracting sales orders from emails—including body text and attachments—and seamlessly integrating them into downstream systems. Their mission is clear: to create a smarter, simpler, and more sustainable wholesale ecosystem.
Shorter menus could reduce food waste and save cafes thousands: study
Shorter menus could reduce food waste and save cafes thousands: study
Oct 2024
A recent study led by RMIT University for End Food Waste Australia has revealed that simplifying menus can help small to medium-sized cafes significantly reduce food waste and save thousands of dollars. Our CEO, Tony Green, commented, 'With the rising costs of doing business putting pressure on the hospitality sector, we're proud to contribute to this impactful report aimed at reducing waste and, in turn, lowering food costs.' The research highlights that one of the main drivers of waste and reduced profitability is the difficulty in finding time to plan and streamline menus, coupled with the tendency to overproduce food.
Welcome new Supporter Member: National Media
Welcome new Supporter Member: National Media
Oct 2024
National Media is a leading platform that connects businesses and professionals, providing access to insights, trends, and opportunities across various industries. Their commitment to innovation and engagement helps businesses discover new products, meet customers and forge valuable partnerships. Their expansion into the Food & Beverage sector with the launch of Foodservice & Hospitality Week. This premier event will incorporate Foodservice Australia, Commercial Kitchen Show, Pizza Pasta & Italian Food Show, Restaurant Technology Show, and much more, setting a new standard for industry events.
AFAB Member Christmas Party
AFAB Member Christmas Party
Oct 2024
The Australian Foodservice Advocacy Body invites all members to a festive afternoon of barefoot bowls to celebrate the holiday season! Bring your team to Wenty Leagues for an afternoon of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a friendly game of barefoot bowls. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect, and toast to the year ahead with industry friends!
Proudly supported by Tip Top FS & Inghams FS
Webinar 06 Nov: Unlock the future of Australian Foodservice with Big Data
Webinar 06 Nov: Unlock the future of Australian Foodservice with Big Data
Oct 2024
Join us for an exclusive Members-only webinar where you'll get an early preview of BRIZO FoodMetrics, a state-of-the-art AI-powered data platform specifically created for the Australian and New Zealand foodservice industry. Learn how this powerful tool can help you identify new business opportunities, boost your sales, and stay ahead of market trends.
AFAB Members Only: Plus, receive a $1,000 discount on a BRIZO annual subscription.
Welcome new Standard Member: Flora Food Group
Welcome new Standard Member: Flora Food Group
Oct 2024
As a global leader in plant-based food, Flora Food Group is driven by a passionate team of 4,800 'Flora Foodies' who live their values of 'Performance, Care, and Passion' every day. They deliver natural, nutritious and sustainable food across 100 countries, offering a compelling alternative to dairy products in categories like butters, spreads, creams, and cheeses. With over 150 years of heritage and deep R&D expertise, Flora Food Group’s commitment to sustainability and innovation aligns perfectly with AFAB’s advocacy for sustainable practices in the foodservice industry. Together, we aim to shape a future of nutritious, affordable, and environmentally friendly food solutions.
Flora Food Group’s iconic brands, such as Flora, Becel+ProActiv, Violife and I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter, are enjoyed by millions worldwide. Their dedication to building a sustainable future resonates with AFAB’s mission to advocate for environmentally responsible practices across the food industry.
Australian dairy authority backed by U.S. family business
Australian dairy authority backed by U.S. family business
Oct 2024
Pure Dairy is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with Great Lakes Cheese!
This collaboration marks a significant milestone, strengthening their global footprint while reinforcing their commitment to delivering premium Australian dairy products. Preparing to launch their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Dandenong South, this partnership opens doors for expanded export opportunities and innovation in dairy production. With their expertise driving operations locally, this partnership positions them at the forefront of a new era for Australian dairy, ready to meet the growing demand both domestically and internationally.
2024 NSW Visitor Economy Forum at ICC Sydney
2024 NSW Visitor Economy Forum at ICC Sydney
Oct 2024
Wes Lambert, AFAB’s Deputy Chair, had the pleasure of attending the 2024 NSW Visitor Economy Forum at ICC Sydney, hosted by Destination New South Wales. The event brought together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to explore the growing interest in authentic, interactive experiences under the theme ‘Experience NSW.’ Special thanks to Steve Cox for the invitation and to the Hon John Graham, Minister of Jobs & Tourism, for the insightful welcome.
Business failures at the highest rate in more than three years
Business failures at the highest rate in more than three years
Oct 2024
Great job Luke Achterstraat representing small business which is a big part of our Foodservice industries front end on the national stage. AFAB are proud members of Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) for this reason. Continuing to focus on cost of doing business, energy, rent & insurance increased costs is the right direction to ease pressure and help reduce closure rates being at their highest rate in over three years.
Welcome new Partner Member: Unilever Food Solutions (UFS)
Welcome new Partner Member: Unilever Food Solutions (UFS)
Oct 2024
We're excited to share the news that Unilever Food Solutions has upgraded their Membership as a Partner Member! Unilever Food Solutions has a strong presence in the foodservice industry here and overseas and is known for collaborating with chefs to develop new recipes, enhance flavours, and provide valuable resources to the culinary community.
AFAB State of Play 2024 Launch Breakfast!
AFAB State of Play 2024 Launch Breakfast!
Sep 2024
It was an incredible morning at the AFAB State of Play 2024 Launch Breakfast! Thank you to our panelists: Emma Whitting (Miller Leith), Simon Jackson (Compass Group Australia), Jason Ferreira (Bunzl Australia & New Zealand), Vladimir Kalmanovich (KPMG Australia) and Adam Theobald (Ordermentum) for sharing such valuable insights on the pressing challenges and opportunities in Australia’s foodservice sector. From inflation and supply chain disruptions to sustainability and labour shortages, the discussions were thought-provoking and offered a fresh perspective on building resilience and agility in the industry. Excited to see how these insights will drive future growth and innovation!
Now available for purchase: AFAB 2024 State of Play Report
Now available for purchase: AFAB 2024 State of Play Report
Sep 2024
We’re thrilled to have officially launched our third State of Play Report at Fine Food Australia! This year’s report sets a new standard in foodservice data, laying the foundation for three key industry projects: Attraction and Retention, Sustainability and Advocacy.
Together, we are unlocking the potential of the entire Australian foodservice supply chain.
Queensland Professional Chef of the Year 2024!
Queensland Professional Chef of the Year 2024!
Sep 2024
Antoine Potier wins Queensland Chef of the Year!
Antoine is Sous Chef at the highly awarded Restaurant Dan Arnold in Brisbane. Many congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! We are excited to see what culinary excellence Antoine will bring to the table next. Please join us in celebrating his outstanding achievement!
Australia's food manufacturing industry worries rising costs will push supermarkets to use more imports
Australia's food manufacturing industry worries rising costs will push supermarkets to use more imports
Sep 2024
Australia’s food manufacturing industry is under pressure as rising imports challenge its competitiveness. With increasing production costs, many local manufacturers are contemplating moving operations offshore, which could impact domestic jobs and economic activity.
Our Member, Valuestream, highlights the importance of cost insight and optimisation to help local manufacturers find efficiencies and stay competitive.
Welcome new Standard Member: Ribs and Roast
Welcome new Standard Member: Ribs and Roast
Sep 2024
With 35 years of combined experience in sous vide cooking, Ribs and Roast is dedicated to delivering niche products cooked to perfection every time. They have built strong relationships with top produce suppliers across Australia, ensuring that they consistently start with the highest quality ingredients for their exceptional dishes. Ribs and Roast's commitment to quality and excellence has made them a trusted name in the industry, providing a unique culinary experience that stands out in the market.
The End Food Waste Australia Summit: Action plans for foodservice
The End Food Waste Australia Summit: Action plans for foodservice
Sep 2024
We are grateful to Carolyn Cameron, Sarah Hughes and Sam Oakden for the opportunity to discuss our Sector Action Plans for Foodservice. The End Food Waste Australia Summit was a resounding success, creating numerous connections and collaboration opportunities for the Australian Foodservice Advocacy Body. Well done to everyone involved!
Welcome new Supporter Member: Lactalis Australia
Welcome new Supporter Member: Lactalis Australia
Sep 2024
Lactalis Australia, part of the Lactalis Group, the world’s largest fresh dairy company is a proud family-owned business with a rich heritage. Headquartered in France, the Lactalis Group operates over 250 production sites worldwide and employs 85,000 people across 90 countries.
In Australia, Lactalis sources milk from across the country, with a dedicated team of 2,200 employees producing around 1 billion kilograms of dairy products annually. Their impressive portfolio includes renowned brands such as Pauls, OAK, Ice Break, Tamar Valley Dairy, Vaalia, President and Galbani. With a deep national footprint, Lactalis Australia is committed to growth and prosperity while upholding family values, passion, and heritage. They prioritise animal welfare, quality, and reliability, collaborating closely with farmers and suppliers to meet the sector’s sustainability challenges and community expectations.
The hidden cost of food waste in the foodservice industry
The hidden cost of food waste in the foodservice industry
Aug 2024
Food waste is a pressing issue that affects various sectors worldwide, with the foodservice industry being a significant contributor. This blog explores the hidden costs of food waste in the Australian foodservice industry, shedding light on the need for urgent and effective measures to mitigate this challenge.
