Roma Foods celebrates over 70 years of Australian manufacturing

Australian-owned and family-run specialised allergen-free and gluten-free manufacturer Roma Food Products hosted the Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing the Hon Colin Brooks MP at its Carrum Downs facility on 6 November, as it celebrated more than 70 years of local manufacturing excellence.

Founded in 1953, Roma Food Products has grown from a small local business into one of the largest dedicated allergen-free manufacturers in the Southern Hemisphere.

The company produces more than 20 million serves of pasta each year as well as a range of biscuits, snacks and baking products under its brands Orgran, Buontempo, Pasta Roma!, Spliits and Freemills.

Roma Food Products CEO Sam Schachna said the Minister’s visit provided an opportunity to reflect on the company’s more than seven decades in operation and acknowledge the contribution of staff to its growth.

“Roma’s success comes from combining our proud heritage with a relentless focus on innovation,” Schachna said. “As we continue to expand into new markets and categories, our goal is to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gluten-free and plant-based food manufacturing, while creating growth opportunities here in Victoria.”

“The incredible talent and commitment of our people and partners are the driving force behind everything we do. We are proud to have built a strong and growing community that shares our passion for quality, innovation and Australian-made food.”

The company employs around 80 people at its facility in Victoria and supports thousands more across regional Australia, from farmers to food processors and packaging partners. Sourcing Australian maize and rice, Roma Food Products ships its products to more than 40 countries. Its facility spans 15,200 m² and integrates product development, manufacturing and distribution logistics.

“Victoria has the largest and most established food manufacturing industry in the nation, worth $47 billion and employing more than 76,000 Victorians. Roma Foods should be very proud to mark 70 years of manufacturing in Victoria,” Brooks said.

Roma Food Products Managing Director Max Buontempo, who has been in the role for more than 40 years, said: “What has kept me passionate after all these years is seeing how the food we make here in Victoria can change lives around the world. From the very beginning, our goal has been to create great food for healthier living, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that mission reach over 40 international markets.”

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, but even more excited about the opportunities still ahead for Roma, our people, and for Australian manufacturing.” 

Image caption: (L to R) Roma Food Products CEO Sam Schachna, Managing Director Max Buontempo and the Hon Colin Brooks MP.