Asahi Beverages, the owner of Carlton & United Breweries, recently hosted an event to celebrate the success of its Victorian Barley Program. The program, which was launched four years ago, has allowed Asahi to improve its barley supply chain and establish direct relationships with around 30 barley growers in the Mallee and Wimmera regions of Victoria. By buying barley directly from these growers, Asahi has been able to eliminate intermediaries like bulk grain handlers and gain clear oversight of the growing process. This enables the company to trace the barley back to the paddock, ensuring quality control and transparency in its supply chain [85965ce8].
The Victorian Barley Program has not only benefited Asahi but also provided financial security for the growers involved. By working directly with Asahi, the barley farmers have been able to invest in new technology and farming sustainability. This partnership has strengthened the local agricultural industry and supported the growth of rural communities in Victoria. Jim Riordan, CEO of Riordan Grain, the company that runs the program, emphasized the importance of beer and the local pub in rural Victoria, highlighting the positive impact that initiatives like the Victorian Barley Program have on the region [85965ce8].
Asahi Beverages is Australia's largest brewer and relies on approximately 40,000 tonnes of barley grown in Victoria each year. The success of the Victorian Barley Program has not only improved Asahi's supply chain but also contributed to the sustainability and economic growth of the barley farming industry in the region. By establishing direct relationships with growers and promoting transparency in the supply chain, Asahi has demonstrated its commitment to quality and sustainability in the brewing industry [85965ce8].
