AI-powered cake baking facility opened in Queensland

Priestleys Gourmet Delights, a prominent supplier and manufacturer of sweet and savoury foods, has officially opened its new AI-powered facility in Brisbane's Acacia Ridge. The 53 million, 7,740 square metre facility marks a significant step for the family-owned business, which has been a staple in Queensland for 28 years.

Incorporating cutting-edge technology, the facility is designed as a data-led SMART factory. It utilises mobile autonomous robots to streamline the baking process, including stacking products onto baking racks and moving these racks around the facility. This innovation is expected to double the production capacity and enhance workplace safety by reducing the need for repetitive manual tasks.

Employees at Priestleys still play a crucial role in various stages of the production process, including hand decorating, selecting ingredients, and performing taste tests and quality control. Those whose roles have been automated are being upskilled for higher-value positions, allowing them to expand their expertise and contribute to future product innovation and process improvements.

The launch of this new facility is also a strategic move in Priestleys' expansion into the retail market. The company plans to create approximately 56 new jobs by 2026 and will offer upskilling opportunities for existing staff to fill newly created roles. These efforts are expected to bolster Queensland's economy and provide new employment opportunities within the state.

Xanny Christophersen, Managing Director and CEO of Priestleys Gourmet Delights, and the niece of the company's founder Marilyn Jones, expressed her enthusiasm about the facility's opening. "It's fantastic to be at the helm of such an innovative company," she said. "The technology we're harnessing will allow us to boost productivity while also enabling us to grow our people—supporting them to upskill and creating a substantial number of new jobs for Queenslanders."

The facility not only broadens the company's capabilities but also helps in launching a new range of products. Priestleys Gourmet Delights will introduce a new range of five individually packaged cakes and tarts into independent retail chains, such as Drakes Supermarkets and Ritchies IGA, with plans to expand to additional outlets across Australia. These products are designed to delight consumers who wish to indulge in a sweet treat at their convenience.

Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, Hon. Glenn Butcher, attended the facility's opening and highlighted the significance of the investment. He commended Priestleys for its role in job creation and technological advancement in the food manufacturing sector.