From New Zealand Roots to Australian Fields, a Legacy of Quality Produce
Nestled in the fertile lands of South Australia, Pye Group has become a cornerstone of the agricultural industry, with a history as rich as the soil they cultivate. The journey began in 1990 when Mark and Fiona relocated from New Zealand to fulfill a significant contract with McCain’s, setting the stage for what would become a multi-faceted farming and processing powerhouse.
The Genesis: A Family’s Vision and Hard Work
Mark and Fiona’s leap of faith to Australia was inspired by a legacy of farming in New Zealand, where Mark’s father owned a processing factory in Timaru. When McCain’s acquired the factory, they proposed an enticing offer for the family to move to Australia to supply them with processing potatoes. After an extensive search with McCain’s to find suitable land, they established their new roots in South Australia, a region previously dominated by cereal cropping and livestock.
Overcoming Challenges and Building the Business
The initial years were fraught with challenges. The family struggled to grow processing potatoes in the sandy soils of their new environment, leading to significant financial losses. However, persistence paid off. They diversified into the fresh market, eventually securing contracts that led to the establishment of Zerella Fresh, a key player in the fresh produce market.
Expanding Horizons: From Zerella Fresh to Pye Group
By 2009, the family had wholly acquired Zerella Fresh, transforming their business into a vertically integrated operation encompassing farming, packing, and transportation. With a history dating back to 1936, Zerella Fresh became a national distributor of potatoes, carrots, and onions. The business further expanded to include cereal cropping and livestock, ensuring sustainable crop rotation.
Innovation and Growth: The Introduction of Spud Lite
One of Pye Group’s proudest achievements is the launch of Spud Lite in 2015. This low-carb potato quickly became a consumer favorite, not only across Australia but also in Asian markets. The innovation behind Spud Lite lies in its significantly reduced carbohydrate content—25% less than average potatoes—making it a healthier choice for consumers.
Scale and Capacity: A Farming Empire
Today, Pye Group’s operations are impressive in scale. They produce around 90,000 tonnes of fresh potatoes, 50,000 tonnes of carrots, and 50,000 tonnes of onions annually. Additionally, they manage extensive livestock, with 20,000 sheep and 300 cattle. The group’s landholdings span 50,000 hectares across South Australia, with various regions dedicated to different crops and purposes.
Strategic Locations and Efficient Operations
Strategic location choices play a crucial role in Pye Group’s success. With operations based in Parilla and other key regions, they optimize logistics to ensure efficiency. The recent consolidation of packing operations to Parilla has resulted in significant freight savings and streamlined processes.
A Legacy of Resilience and Innovation
Pye Group stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of family vision. From their beginnings in New Zealand to becoming a major player in Australia’s agricultural sector, their journey reflects dedication to quality and sustainable farming practices.
