Darren Thomas "When I look back on it, it's something we're very proud of" | Lessons, Leadership and Opportunities

Darren Thomas is the CEO of Thomas Foods International and in this episode we chat about his journey, the family business, and how they've not just made the most of opportunities they've overcome huge adversity. 

From growing into new international markets, supporting local communities, the business is proud of its heritage and excited for the future.

Takeaways

• Being present and connected with employees and customers is crucial for success in the agricultural industry.
• South Australia offers unique advantages for businesses, such as access to owners and CEOs and affordability.
• Strategic acquisitions and expansion into processing have been key factors in the growth of Thomas Foods International.
• Teamwork, continuous learning, and a clear vision are essential for achieving success in the industry. The major fire at the TFI meat processing plant in Murray Bridge was a significant challenge, but there were no injuries or loss of life.
• The rebuilding process was a huge undertaking, but TFI was able to mitigate losses and quickly get back to production.
• TFI has diversified its business into seafood, cooked meats, and pet food, allowing for the extraction of maximum value from the carcass.
• Sustainability and innovation are important focus areas for TFI, including investments in environmental awareness, cyber security, and financial reporting.
• A sustainable price for farmers is crucial for the long-term viability of the agricultural industry.

LivestockSA Partnership:
Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises.

Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future. 

Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills.

You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website.

EvokeAG 2026:
I'm excited to be one of the MC's for evokeAG in 2026. This event is unlike any other in Aussie agriculture and brings together the brightest minds from across the AgriFood ecosystem focused on solutions to some of our planets biggest challenges. Get your tickets at evokeAG.com