McCormick upgrades trade waste treatment at its Qld facility

Global flavour maker McCormick opened its upgraded sustainability-focused facility at its Sunshine Coast site on 6 June 2025 — the upgraded facility is designed to reduce waste while supporting the global growth of its Gourmet Garden brand.

Completed after seven months of construction, the trade waste treatment facility will be used to manage liquid waste generated by manufacturing activities. The facility is located at McCormick’s Sunshine Coast Hinterland base in Palmwoods which is also the production hub for the Gourmet Garden herb and spice range.

Paris Golden, Managing Director of McCormick Australia, said, “At McCormick, we are guided by our Purpose-led Performance (PLP) principles to deliver industry-leading financial performance while doing what’s right for people, communities, and the planet. This upgraded facility reinforces our commitment to reducing our environmental impact and delivers lasting value to our communities and stakeholders.

“As we continue to expand our international presence, we’re investing in smart infrastructure to uphold our high standards in trade waste management,” Golden said.

The upgraded facility, developed in collaboration with Aerofloat and McNab, is designed to support Gourmet Garden’s expanding production capacity both locally and internationally. With the ability to process 25–40 m³ of wastewater per hour and a 500-kL holding capacity, the system is designed to strengthen sustainable and efficient operations, enabling increased output while maintaining environmental and regulatory standards. By reducing waste disposal costs and mitigating overflow risks, the facility enhances the brand’s ability to scale and meet growing market demands. The upgraded facility is estimated to realise nearly AU$28m in total economic impact in the Sunshine Coast region, and create about 90 local jobs, directly and indirectly.

Housed within a 650 m² building, it is complemented by landscaped outdoor areas featuring 731 native plants, thoughtfully designed to enhance the site's environmental footprint and promote local biodiversity.

Tim Cooney, Operational Project Manager at McCormick Australia, said: “The success of this project was driven by strong collaboration with Aerofloat and McNab, and closely supported by Unity Water and the Sunshine Coast Council. Together, we have delivered a facility that strengthens our operational capabilities and positions us for long term sustainable growth in the Sunshine Coast region.”

As a key supporter of both Gourmet Garden and McCormick Australia, the Sunshine Coast Council has played a pivotal role in this project by providing McCormick Australia with development assistance and commercial growth initiatives by championing their innovation journey.

“Sunshine Coast Council applauds McCormick Australia for its contribution to the local economy, its focus on sustainability and the unwavering commitment to remain a vital part of the region's growth and prosperity,” said Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli.

“The facility also supports McCormick’s continued focus on enhancing its sustainable practices, which aligns with being located in one of only five UNESCO biosphere reserves in Australia.”