Wed Sep 25 07:45:10 UTC 2024: ## Aussie-Owned Businesses Demand Clearer Labelling on Supermarket Shelves
**Sydney, Australia** – A coalition of Australian-owned food businesses is calling for clearer labelling on supermarket shelves to distinguish between products that are simply Australian-made and those that are also Australian-owned. This move comes after a survey revealed that many consumers are mistakenly believing they are supporting Australian-owned businesses when purchasing products with the iconic “Australian Made” kangaroo logo.
The survey, commissioned by dairy cooperative Norco, found that over 80% of consumers believe they are buying from Australian-owned companies when they see the logo, even though it only indicates that the product was made in Australia. This confusion stems from the current labelling laws which do not require businesses to disclose their country of ownership.
“We are seeing a massive disconnect between what consumers think and what is actually happening,” said Michael Hampson, Norco CEO. “While we support the Australian Made logo and its contribution to promoting local production, we need to ensure that consumers are equipped to make informed choices about where their money is going.”
The coalition, which includes companies like Sanitarium, SPC, Mayver’s Foods, and Sunshine Sugar, argue that clearer labelling would empower consumers to actively support Australian-owned businesses and contribute to the local economy.
“We want people to know that we are family-owned and Australian-made,” said Bethaney George, CEO of Mayver’s Foods. “Consumers are looking for this information, they want to support local, but they lack the tools to easily identify these businesses.”
The group proposes a simple solution: adding an additional indicator alongside the Australian Made logo, clearly stating whether the company behind the product is also Australian-owned.
“This small change can have a big impact,” said Todd Saunders, executive general manager of Sanitarium Health Food Company. “Supporting Australian-owned businesses not only benefits the local economy, but also helps us to reinvest in the community.”
The call for clearer labelling comes at a time when consumers are increasingly prioritizing local brands and products. The Norco survey found that 30% of respondents have increased their support for Australian brands in the past two years, even if they cost more.
The coalition is now seeking a dialogue with the federal government to address this issue and implement clearer labelling policies for Australian consumers.
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