Ashton Valley Juicery: Innovating with sustainable practices and value-added products

Ashton Valley committed to sustainable production and innovation

Ashton Valley Juicery arose from the Ceravolo sustainable farming business, expanding into juice production, diversifying its product mix and adding significant value to its operations. This development highlights the company's commitment to sustainable production and innovation, transforming undervalued fruit into unique, high-quality products.

World-leading commitment to sustainable production

Ashton Valley Juicery has made a significant investment in processing and value-adding, creating a range of unique products that maximise the value of imperfect fruit. This approach not only reduces waste but also enhances the sustainability of their farming practices. By focusing on sustainable production, the company sets a benchmark for the industry, demonstrating how innovation can drive both environmental and economic benefits.

Innovative product development

The expansion into juice production has allowed it to diversify its farming business. Ashton Valley Juicery produces a variety of juices under its own brand, catering to a growing market for high-quality, natural beverages. Additionally, the company supplies wholesale juice to other businesses, including cider producers, further extending its market reach and impact.

Maximising value from imperfect fruit

One of the key benefits of Ashton Valley Juicery's approach is the ability to maximize value from imperfect fruit. By processing fruit that might otherwise go to waste, the company not only reduces its environmental footprint but also creates new revenue streams. This innovative use of resources exemplifies smart, sustainable business practices that align with the State of the Industry Report's focus on the natural environment and value-adding.

Sustainable practices and technologies

Ashton Valley Juicery employs a range of sustainable practices and technologies to enhance their operations:

• Permanent netting: Erecting permanent netting over orchards reduces water evaporation by 50% and protects fruit from pests and severe weather events.
• Stock feed: The solid pomace left after juice extraction is used for livestock feed, ensuring no part of the fruit goes to waste.
• Irrigation probes: Underground probes monitor soil water levels, ensuring precise irrigation and reducing water usage.
• Reduced water waste: Drip irrigation systems are used instead of sprinklers to minimize water loss under the harsh Australian sun.
• Recycled water: An onsite wastewater treatment plant processes all wastewater, which is then used to irrigate the orchards.
• Solar panels: Solar panels on apple packing and juicing sheds reduce fossil fuel use and enhance economic efficiency.
• Recyclable packaging: Juices are bottled in glass with metal caps, both of which are 100% recyclable.

Commitment to research and development

Ashton Valley Juicery is dedicated to continuous improvement through research and development. By collaborating with customers, the University of Adelaide, and Apple and Pear Australia Ltd, the company seeks new ways to enhance their sustainability plan and build a greener future.

Embracing technology and innovation

Despite expected generational differences, the whole family is very tech-forward. Joyce and her brother Joseph are constantly exploring ways to optimize and automate their operations. “We’re a highly automated manufacturing business, but on the ground for picking, packing, and running forklifts, we’re at about 100 to 150 people seasonally,” says Joyce.

Agri-tourism experiences

Ashton Valley is a partner in Lot 100, a culinary tourism destination to experience exciting South Australian food and beverages. Hosting a working craft brewery and small batch distillery, it is home for a collective of businesses that celebrates sustainability and local produce.

Diversification and sustainability drives significant benefits

Ashton Valley Juicery's expansion into juice production is a testament to the power of innovation and sustainable practices in the horticulture and food industry. By transforming undervalued fruit into high-quality products, the company has created a successful and diversified business model that aligns with the themes of smart and sustainable agriculture. This case study showcases how strategic investments and a commitment to sustainability can drive significant benefits for both the business and the broader community.