Inland Rail enables logistic efficiencies for Howlong pet food business
Innovative pet nutrition company Staughton Group puts 40 containers a week on the freight rail system from its Howlong plant in southern NSW to supply domestic and global markets.
July 8, 2021
Managing Director Edward Staughton said he was excited by the promise of Inland Rail and the economic and environmental efficiencies its brings.
“We see fantastic opportunity to use Inland Rail for our inward bound and outward distribution…to get better access to domestic and global markets and to create efficiencies in our business,” he said.
“On our outbound freight for export we containerise on site and then the optimal way to get it to the Port of Melbourne is with the rail network.
Through the adoption of technology and ingenuity, the NSW Riverina-based business has transformed from a waste processing plant to a large-scale quality food producer.
Mr Staughton has steered his business to adopt more environmentally friendly practices, including the adoption of solar energy, and the use of rail for freight to reduce its overall carbon footprint.
“We’re always looking for opportunities to be more efficient in the global market,” he said.
However, Australia’s large domestic distances are a major cost for Staughton Group and driving efficiencies in the logistical supply chain is increasing its competitiveness and benefitting its customers.
Mr Staughton said providing flexibility and resilience on the rail network to customers like him would also be a huge advantage.
“We’re fortunate to be close to one of the Inland Rail hubs that will really open up the economic distribution and supply chain of our products.”
“I think Inland Rail will create a much more connected Australia and more opportunities for rural businesses to grow,” he said.
