Goodman Fielder Fiji unveiled its world class Poultry Hatchery in Waila this morning.

This was officially commemorated by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica.

The opening ceremony served as a platform to showcase replacing a 40 plus year old hatchery with a state-of-the-art facility.

Crest chicken has been a reliable source of locally grown protein produced by Fijian for Fijians for over 40 years.

Over the course of three years since its inception, the project exemplifies Goodman Fielder’s dedication to local development. Notably, more than 50% of the FJD 22 million investment directly supported local construction, electrical contractors, and other service providers, injecting capital directly into the regional economy.

Beyond its economic impact, the Hatchery project emphasizes Goodman Fielder’s dedication to fostering its workforce.

Employees are provided with opportunities to refine their technical skills through direct training under their own externally accredited Crest Academy which provides the employees with industry recognized competencies and certification in Poultry husbandry.

The Company General Manager, Tim Carter states that this investment is an important milestone for the poultry operations in Fiji.

The company shareholders see this FJD22M investment as part of their long-term commitment to doing business in Fiji underpinned by their confidence in the local economy.

Goodman Fielder continues to be a strong contributor and developer of Small to Medium size enterprises in Fiji, working closely with 31 contract farmers operating 49 sheds, out of which, 18 farmers have been with the business over 35 years.

Carter is confident that the Poultry industry in Fiji will continue to be a shining example of a self-funded and self-sustaining agriculture sector and a strong contributor to the Fiji economy through direct and indirect spending.