Content provided by Lockyer Valley Foods | Proud partner of the SMSF Association
Since 2011, the Lockyer Valley has been without a Queensland based canned, powdered, juiced and frozen food processing facility, but the Lockyer Valley Foods Project will change that!
Proudly supporting local Australian growers, increasing Australian-grown and owned products, and creating 124 jobs in Stage Two*, rising to 500+ jobs for the community by Stage Four. What does this have to do with SMSFs you ask? Read on to find out more!
*Stage One was the acquisition of the land, approved DA, and operational works approvals.
Why Cooperatives?
Cooperatives are a compelling investment choice for several reasons:
- Shared Ownership: In a cooperative model, members collectively own and govern the enterprise, ensuring democratic decision-making and shared benefits.
- Community Impact: By supporting cooperatives, investors contribute to the economic development of local communities, fostering resilience and sustainability.
- Stability and Longevity: Cooperatives often prioritise long-term viability over short-term profits, leading to stable, sustainable business practices.
- Ethical Practices: Cooperatives typically adhere to ethical standards, prioritising fair treatment of workers, sustainable sourcing, and transparent operations.
Benefits to Members:
Investing in this cooperative offers numerous benefits to its members, including:
- Stable Income Streams: The Member’s Cooperative can expect secure long-term income from its investment, providing financial stability and peace of mind.
- Community Engagement: Cooperative members actively participate in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of ownership and community involvement.
- Fair Treatment: The cooperative model ensures fair treatment of workers and growers, promoting equitable distribution of profits and opportunities.
- Sustainable Practices: By supporting a Cooperative, members contribute to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental stewardship.
Why Invest in an Australian-Owned Facility?
For self-managed super fund operators, investing in the Cooperative (which in turns invests in an Australian-owned fruit and vegetable processing facility- as required by its constitution) offers several compelling advantages:
- Supporting Local Economy: Investing in Australian-owned enterprises strengthens the domestic economy, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
- Risk Diversification: Diversifying investment portfolios with local assets reduces exposure to global market volatility and geopolitical risks.
- Alignment with Values: Many investors prioritise ethical and sustainable investments. Supporting (through the Cooperative) an Australian-owned facility aligns with these values, contributing to social and environmental responsibility.
- Long-Term Growth Potential: As consumer preferences shift towards locally sourced and sustainably produced goods, Australian-owned food processing facilities are well-positioned for long-term growth and profitability – [The Cooperative now owns one million two hundred and sixty thousand shares in Lockyer Valley Foods).
Investing in a fruit and vegetable cooperative presents a unique opportunity to generate financial returns while supporting Australian ownership, community empowerment, and sustainable agriculture. By joining this cooperative, your clients could become part of a movement towards a more equitable and resilient food system.
Seize the opportunity to invest in a brighter, more sustainable future.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this document is provided for educational purposes only, is general in nature and is prepared without taking into account particular objective, financial circumstances, legal and tax issues, and needs. The information provided in this article is not a substitute for legal, tax and financial product advice. Before making any decision based on this information, you should assess its relevance to your individual circumstances. The information provided in this bulletin is not considered financial product advice for the purposes of the Corporations Act 2001.