BREAKING: Kingaroy’s peanut industry is officially back in local hands as the Crumpton Group has secured a deal to acquire Bega Group’s processing sites in Kingaroy and Tolga. This pivotal agreement, announced on September 11, 2023, comes after months of uncertainty for local peanut growers and will significantly impact the region’s agricultural landscape.
Bega Group’s CEO, Pete Findlay, expressed relief that essential assets remain under local ownership. “While it was always our preference to sell the facilities, we are pleased that the land, buildings, and equipment will remain in local hands,” Findlay stated. This move is expected to stabilize the local peanut market and reassure growers about the future of their industry.
The Crumpton Group, a fourth-generation family-owned business based in Queensland’s South Burnett region, specializes in peanut growing, shelling, processing, and roasting. Their acquisition is set to enhance their capabilities in serving Australian peanut growers across all regions. Crumpton Group’s Sonie Crumpton emphasized the positive implications of this purchase, stating, “The acquisition of these assets will allow us to better serve Australian Peanut Growers in all regions moving forward.”
Bega Group is committed to supporting its existing workforce during this transition. The company is working with Crumpton Group to identify up to 30 potential roles for displaced employees. “We will continue to provide redeployment training and assistance, including a job fair held in Kingaroy,” Findlay added, highlighting the company’s dedication to its staff.
The sale, expected to be finalized in December 2025, will allow for a seamless transition as the Kingaroy site continues operations until June 2026. This timeline ensures that peanut growers can bring their crops to market without disruption and allows for a smooth handover to Crumpton Group.
This development represents a significant turning point for the Kingaroy peanut industry, which has seen fluctuating fortunes in recent years. Local growers can now look forward to a revitalized operation that prioritizes their needs and sustainability.
As this story unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely for further announcements from both Bega Group and Crumpton Group regarding future plans and partnerships with local growers. The ongoing commitment to local employment and industry support is set to reshape the peanut processing landscape in Queensland for years to come.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it continues to impact the Kingaroy community and the broader Australian peanut industry.
