Ballarat gum maker lands South Korea retail breakthrough
Ferndale Foods' Jila gum and mints launched in 16,500 South Korean stores across CU Convenience and Olive Young chains.
The Ballarat manufacturer has cracked one of Asia's largest retail markets with its gum and mint products now stocked in major South Korean chains. A further 11,000 stores are expected to stock Jila in the first quarter of 2027, potentially reaching 27,500 outlets by June 2027.
South Korea has 50 million people and over 55,000 convenience stores, giving the family-owned brand access to a huge new customer base. Ferndale invested 1 million dollars into mint production 18 months ago and has a 3 million dollar packing line coming in early 2027 to boost capacity fivefold.
The company employs 100 people in Ballarat and remains focused on expanding Australian regional manufacturing.
- 16,500
- South Korean stores stocking Jila now
- 11,000
- Additional stores expected Q1 2027
- 27,500
- Target outlets by June 2027
- $3 million
- Investment in new packing line
Why it mattersBreaking into a major Asian retail market is rare for Australian food makers; this opens doors in Japan, Singapore and the Middle East.
AustraliaThe deal supports manufacturing jobs and growth in regional Victoria and shows Australian consumer products can compete globally.
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