Puglia Cheese

The origins of the business go back to 1982 when an Italian immigrant converted his garage at his home in Mordialloc into a cheese factory. He made a variety of cheeses that he sold through local shops and delicatessens. All the recipes he used for his homemade cheeses where his own, developed using cooking techniques his mother taught him. His mother's name was Lucia, which he incorporated in his brand name 'Mamma Lucia Cheese'. The knowledge and artisan techniques of stretching curd and cooking ricotta were founded 80 years ago in Italy. In 1985, with new business partners, the doors opened to 'Mamma Lucia Cheese' located in Dandenong, but before long, production had out-grown the facilities, and in 1996 the business moved to our current location at 50 Weston St, Brunswick. In July 1998 with two new partners, (together with the existing Mamma Lucia owners) they formed the 'Fresh Cheese Co. (Aust) Pty Ltd' to acquire the business of 'Mamma Lucia Cheese' and 'Puglia Cheese'. Then in 2002 the 'Sudano Cheese Company' was also purchased and amalgamated. Due to brand recognition and loyalty we continue to manufacture under these brand names. In July 2003 the company also acquired 'Cheese Masters Pty Ltd', recognised as one of the largest cheese distributors in Victoria. Through their networks, we have been able to place our products in previously untapped markets Since then the company has seen rapid growth and with a selection of three brands, it enabled us the opportunity to have our products placed in all the major supermarkets. Today, Fresh Cheese Co (Aust) Pty Ltd supplies all major supermarkets, direct in Victoria and through warehouses and distributors in all other states. Our ranges of products have increased over the years and we currently produce over 12 types of cheeses' ranging from Bocconcini, and Ricotta, to hard mature wheels of Pecorino and cream cheese Mascarpone. Having established Fresh Cheese Co. in Australia, we have begun to look at opportunities off shore. Our products are currently enjoyed in New Zealand, Asia Pacific and Malta with several other markets showing interest. Today, we export around 2% of our total production and plan to increase this over the next few years. In 1985 we were processing 250 litres of milk per day, today we are using 25,000 litres per day, approximately 8 million litres of milk, 5 million litres of whey and 150,000 litres of cream annually. Originally the business was a two-man operation, today we employ 40 and continue to look for further skilled staff to aid in our ever expanding growth.