Anzac biscuits factory looking forward to a new future

Posted by AFN Staff Writers on 14th March 2012

A Melbourne factory that manufactures the Australian Anzac brand of biscuits has been rescued from closure by a consortium of investors.

The Broadmeadow biscuit factory was bought from Unibic this week by a consortium called Modern Baking Company. Unibic went into voluntary administration earlier this month, as reported by Australian Food News. As well as the household Australian biscuit brand, 170 jobs were saved at the factory.

“Anzac” biscuits are made using rolled oats, flour, desiccated coconut, sugar, butter, golden syrup, baking soda and boiling water. It has been claimed the biscuits were sent by wives to soldiers abroad during the First World War because the ingredients do not spoil easily and the biscuits kept well during naval transportation.

Four per cent of sales from official Unibic Anzac biscuits were being donated towards the Returned and Services League of Australia, a support organisation for those who have served or are serving in the Australian Defence Force.

A media statement from the purchasing entity Modern Baking Company said, “The successful rescue of the business is testimony to what can be achieved with cooperation and support of all the company’s stakeholders, notably Unibic’s loyal and dedicated staff and the union which was very helpful during the process.

“The Returned and Services League of Australia was also vital to the rescue, as well as the support and encouragement given by the company’s customers, particularly the major supermarket chains and suppliers,” the spokesperson said.