George Weston Foods Limited (GWF) today announced its intention to acquire KR Castlemaine. This acquisition is subject to regulatory and other approvals and will bring together two iconic Australian companies.

GWF Chief Executive Geoff Starr said the purchase of KR Castlemaine demonstrated GWF’s commitment to building an efficient business best placed to compete in the fresh pork and smallgoods markets.

“This acquisition will deliver a stronger future for the businesses, to the benefit of our employees, our customers and consumers. It will provide an opportunity to leverage existing business capabilities to enable greater focus on product innovation and drive efficiencies.” Mr Starr said.

We look forward to working together with KR Castlemaine, to begin developing our plan, to secure the future success of both businesses,” Mr Starr said.

KR Castlemaine Chief Executive Officer Mike Adams commented;

“We believe there is a strong future for the GWF and KR Castlemaine businesses.”

For further information or interviews with GWF spokespersons please call:

Jocelyn Hunter, PPR – (03) 8643 1623 / 0404 194 459

About George Weston Foods
George Weston Foods Limited (GWF) is one of Australia's largest food manufacturers, with a proud history of growth. Producing and marketing some of Australia and New Zealand's best loved brands, GWF is a wholly owned subsidiary of Associated British Foods plc, one of the world's leading food companies. GWF's principal operations are undertaken throughout Australia and New Zealand. The company also has joint ventures in the United States and Thailand.

About KR Castlemaine
KR Castlemaine is one of Australia’s most renowned meat and smallgoods manufacturers. With a particular focus on ham and bacon, the business has been around for over 100 years and has operations in Toowoomba, Queensland and in Castlemaine, Victoria.