At Hewitt, our management of the entire supply chain – from paddock to plate – provides unique insights into performance both pre and post farm gate. By owning and operating Hewitt Foods; the meat processing, sale and export division of the business, we maintain clear visibility across every stage of production.
This integrated approach enables us to make informed decisions within our breeding program, balancing the demands of livestock productivity in the paddock with the quality and consistency required in the final product.
At pre-farm gate, in the genetics development, fertility is paramount as we are producing animals that are adaptable to the environment and are able to reproduce. Then it’s about the animals being able to thrive, with good conversion, achieving high weight for age and producing a high-quality carcase.
Beyond the farm gate, the focus shifts to ensuring animals reach processing plants with consistency in both volume and quality. Reliable supply and uniform carcase characteristics enable Hewitt Foods to foster strong, strategic partnerships with customers worldwide. Carcases need to meet optimal weight standards while maintaining a balance of key quality traits such as marbling and fat cover. These attributes are essential for sustaining customer confidence and delivering a high-quality product that consistently meets consumer expectations and claims.
Once we have produced the optimal articles, we strategically distribute them through our various brands and sales channels to meet the specific requirements for claims and market demand.
The vertical integration opens us up to the challenges and opportunities of the balancing act between the two divisions; the ideal article for Hewitt Foods may not be suitable for Hewitt Agribusiness to produce, and vice versa. It’s about making the whole operation work for both divisions.
Whether it’s the rapid growing demand for organic ground beef (mince) in America through our brand Organic Rancher or the rise in health‑conscious Australians, buying our Cleaver’s Organic steak – the end demand from the consumer gives us clarity and visibility on what we need to do at the very base of the supply chain.
