Kombucha maker MOJO Beverages has launched a bottling line which will increase its capacity by 130% to meet growing demand for the fermented drink both locally and in export markets.
The line, housed at MOJO's production facility in Willunga, South Australia, comprises the “complete solution” of a labeller, rinser, filler, and capper.
The Framax 12121 rinsing, filling, and capping machine (12x rinser/12x filler/1x capper) has been installed by Australian agent FB*Propak.
CEO and co-founder Anthony Crabb says the line is predicted to increase the total production volume of MOJO products by 130 per cent, with the goal of 13 million bottles per year to be reached in the next 12 to 18 months.
The line will also create 10 new jobs in the region, as well as training and upskilling opportunities for existing employees.
The installation comes on the back of the producer's new probiotic beverage range, MOJO Tonic, which has been stocked in Woolworths nationally since January.
A family-owned business, MOJO has been crafting the fermented tea since 2010, and will continue to make kombucha using the same living culture it began with.
“The new machinery will give us the opportunity to meet increasing demand across Australian grocery markets, as well as explore opportunities in markets such as Singapore, Hong Kong and China,” Crabb says.
“In addition, in January this year we became certified by Safe Quality Food, a Global Food Safety Initiative. This is an independently audited, world-recognised standard and we’re proud to be the only Australian kombucha producer certified to this level.”
Launched with support
Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries and Member for Mawson Leon Bignell officially launched the line and said MOJO was a great addition to the food and drinks sector.
“MOJO is a fantastic success story for both the region and South Australia as a whole,” Bignell said.
“This local company was on the forefront of fermented beverages before they were cool, and the health benefits of probiotics were well known - and MOJO continues to lead the way with this new expansion." he said.
“This region has an incredible food, wine, beer, cider and spirits culture and it’s great to add MOJO’s kombucha and tonics to the line-up when promoting our region to the rest of Australia and the world.”
MOJO beverages include MOJO Crafted Kombucha, MOJO Classic Kombucha and new MOJO Tonic. Ambassadors include marathon runner Jess Trengove and AFLW star Erin Phillips.
MOJO is sold through 2000 retail outlets nationwide.
