Sweet icing indeed

A FUNDING boost has been the icing on the cake for a successful Hallam business.
The Cake Syndicate Pty Ltd received a State Government grant of $250,000 to buy state-of-the-art cake decorating equipment to boost productivity and competitiveness.
It will expand the company’s capabilities, improve productivity and create 15 new jobs.
South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Inga Peulich congratulated the food company which was formed to purchase the iconic Susan Day Cakes brand.
“This Australian-owned industrial bakery is one of the largest cake producers for the retail and food service market across Australia,” Ms Peulich said.
“The Cake Syndicate will use the grant from the Victorian Coalition Government’s Investing in Manufacturing Technology (IMT) program to purchase world leading automation and cake decorating equipment that will improve its existing manufacturing productivity and open up new business opportunities.”
Minister for Manufacturing David Hodgett said The Cake Syndicate was a recipient of the grant under round two of the IMT program, which was designed to stimulate investment in new technology.
“IMT is a key initiative of the government’s Manufacturing Strategy. These grants are an excellent example of how new technology is helping to improve production processes, develop new skills and take advantage of a range of innovative export opportunities,” Mr Hodgett said.
“Victoria is the hub of Australia’s manufacturing industry, but to meet the challenge of the high Australian dollar and competitive international markets, manufacturers must look to increase investment in new technology to remain competitive.”
IMT grants require a minimum co-contribution from the business of 75 per cent of total eligible project expenditure (i.e. $3 for every $1 granted).
Another round of grants will open later in 2013.
For more information visit www.business.vic.gov.au/imt.