employee birthdays with monthly cakes, these small gestures contribute to a sense of community and show appreciation for the team.“It’s about showing our team that we care,” says Barker. Communication is another cornerstone of the company’s culture. Regular meetings inform employees about business performance, safety protocols, and quality standards. These efforts help build trust and ensure that everyone feels involved and valued. FOSTERING A STRONG FOOD SAFETY CULTURE Food safety is a critical focus for the Mitani Group, and this commitment goes beyond compliance with industry standards—it’s ingrained in the company’s culture.This dedication was recently recognized when the company received the Food Safety Culture Award from Dairysafe.This honor highlights the company’s leadership in manufacturing dairy products. “This award process was quite involved,” shares Barker.“They interviewed employees on the factory floor to evaluate their food safety engagement. It was rewarding to see their efforts acknowledged, as it shows how far we’ve come as a business.” The Mitani Group’s approach emphasizes that food safety is not solely the responsibility of a quality manager; it’s a shared responsibility across the organization. Employees across all levels—in production or administration—are expected to uphold these standards, ensuring consistent quality in everything the company produces. “Having the right culture to support food safety is essential,” explains Barker. “It’s not just about designing forms or protocols; it’s about making sure everyone genuinely cares about the process, whether it’s conducting temperature checks or inspecting packaging.” REDUCING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT The Mitani Group is actively working to minimize its environmental footprint through innovative waste management initiatives. By partnering with a local piggery, the company repurposes tons of food waste annually, transforming it into animal feed instead of sending it to the sewer system. “We’re proud to see our waste being used constructively,” says Barker.“It’s a simple but effective way to make a difference.” “Every step we take towards sustainability matters,” adds Lewis. “It’s a journey, and we’re committed to making meaningful progress.” 40 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01
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