- Published:
- Sunday 21 April 2019
Iconic Victorian Four’N Twenty meat pies will soon be on supermarket shelves in Japan thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Gippsland producer Patties Foods launched its iconic brand of meat pies in Japan today with a Four’N Twenty Day celebration at the World Beer Museum in Tokyo.
The Labor Government has played an important role in ensuring Patties Foods’ entry into the giant Japanese market by hosting several activities, including participation at the influential food and beverage industry event FOODEX.
Japan is Victoria’s second-largest export destination in Asia and fourth largest overall with more than $2 billion worth of goods sent there in 2017-2018.
A large population (126 million), highly developed retail network and affinity for Australian beef were strong factors in Patties Foods’ decision to target Japan.
The lure of looming major sporting events was also a drawcard with Japan to host the Rugby World Cup this year and the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.
The beloved Four’N Twenty pie has never been better placed to star on the world stage – Patties Foods’ entry into Japan is another example of how the Labor Government is helping Victorian businesses trade into key international markets.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula
“Japan is a long-time partner and friend of Victoria and it’s great to be able to share a beloved tradition with our Japanese friends while supporting the work of an iconic Victorian brand.”
“When you think Four’N Twenty pies you think footy at the MCG, but with our support we’re taking the famous pie to the lucrative Japanese market and that’s great news at home and abroad.”
Quote attributable to Stuart Smyth, General Manager - International, Patties Foods
“The support from the Victorian Government has been invaluable in helping Patties Foods get set up in Japan, which has been an important export target market for us.”