Beverage Manufacturer: Energy Prices Are the Biggest Issue

Published on August 14, 2024

High energy prices are making it harder for Australian beverage companies to remain competitive, a parliamentary committee has been told. At an inquiry hearing on Aug. 14, George Kotses, Group Operations Manager of Bickford’s Australia highlighted energy prices as the most significant issue facing the 150-year-old cordials and soft drinks manufacturer. “In the month of June, our energy bill was $82,000 (US$54,300),” he told the Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Resources. “In July, it was $132,000. Now that’s a significant impost in how we operate.” While Kotses acknowledged his company was a major electricity user due to automation, he said there had been a period of record price hikes in the last couple of months....

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