Drought blamed for Thomas Foods scale back
Meat processor Thomas Foods International has reduced shifts at its facility at Lobethal which employs about 600 people.
The company blamed “drought conditions and lower livestock supply” for the “difficult but necessary decision”.
The Lobethal processing facility will move to “one extended and more efficient single shift”, the company said.
“The company expects the majority of the current workforce will continue to be employed under the new working arrangements with employees also to be offered work at its other sites, including Murray Bridge, if not required at Lobethal,” Thomas Foods said.
“As we work through this process with workers over the coming days, the company is focussed on keeping job losses to a minimum.
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“Thomas Foods International’s Murray Bridge facility is not impacted, with plans currently underway to increase beef processing there from 700 to 800 head per day.”
Thomas Foods is one of the state’s largest companies and was ranked fifth in the 2024 South Australian Business Index, having generated more than $3 billion in revenue.
Workers were notified of the company’s decision last Friday, with update meetings held yesterday. It has been reported that between 200 and 300 staff were stood down.
Australian Meat Workers Union SA branch secretary Justin Smith said Thomas Foods’ decision means “union members can begin to focus on their future”.
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Smith said the existing site agreement meant the company had the option to implement 10-hour workdays over a four-day workweek on a five-day rotating roster.
“This change would result in more people being employed on day shift compared to the traditional five-day, eight-hour schedule,” he said.
“The union has been in discussions with TFI and understands that the move to a single shift is an unfortunate consequence of the current livestock supply situation in South Australia.
“Union representatives will be onsite next Wednesday to support members in their discussions with the company regarding ongoing employment at Lobethal or possible relocation to another TFI facility.”
He said the union would seek redundancy arrangements for any members who could not be accommodated.
“This recent downturn should serve as a reminder to the broader community of the volatility within the food production sector – particularly in protein processing,” he said.
“Employment in this industry is frequently affected by seasonal conditions and livestock availability. These highly skilled workers deserve greater recognition and appreciation, especially considering their essential role in keeping the community fed.”
