Victorian lamb goes global
Victoria exports over $4.3 billion in meat annually and is Australia’s largest exporter of sheep meat. In 2021-22, meat exports from Victoria grew by 31 per cent on the previous year. Victoria’s natural environment, traceability systems and sustainable farming practices mean it is well placed to continue to be a leading supplier of meat to global markets into the future.
M.C. Herd is an innovative and experienced Victorian meat processor contributing to Victoria’s strong export performance.
Based outside of Geelong, M.C. Herd is a sheep meat processor and plays a vital role in supplying lamb throughout the eastern seaboard of Australia, and across the globe.
Founded in 1951, the family business had predominantly serviced domestic retailers and food services organisations before launching into the export market in 2018 with its range of sheep meat products. Working closely with Victorian farmers and sourcing quality livestock, predominantly from Victoria’s south-west, the company also works closely with its customers to ensure that only the highest quality and best tasting products reach international shelves. This approach has enabled M.C. Herd to establish itself in several high value overseas markets including South Korea, Japan and Taiwan, and contribute to Victoria’s reputation as an exceptional producer – and exporter – of food and fibre products.
Over the last twelve months, M.C. Herd has grown its international market share, supplying premium and consistent products that meet strict country and customer specifications. The ability of M.C. Herd to capitalise on these in-market growth opportunities relies on its highly skilled workforce and ability to source quality livestock.
With increasing demand from domestic and export customers, M.C. Herd has utilised Victorian Government programs to successfully implement several advanced manufacturing projects that have enabled the organisation to improve its competitiveness and fully optimise carcase throughput.
Chief Executive Richard Herd credits M.C. Herd’s success to having clear organisational goals, developing a number of primary market segments, being responsive and open to customers, and accessing Victorian Government programs which have supported the company to continue a sustainable growth trajectory.
