Luv-a-Duck appoints third-generation CEO
Australia’s largest producer of premium duck products, Luv-a-Duck, is bucking the trend of homegrown food businesses moving overseas by appointing Daniel Shoppee as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Daniel is the third generation of the Shoppee family to lead the company since its founding by his grandfather Arthur Shoppee in 1968, and his appointment underscores the business’ commitment to family values, premium quality Australian food and agriculture, and regional heritage.
“It’s rare for a business to operate so long and grow so substantially while remaining family-run, and I’m incredibly proud that Luv-a-Duck, a company my grandfather started with 20 ducks in his backyard more than 50 years ago, continues to promote Australian food. I am honoured to be leading our fantastic business in its next phase of growth to bring more duck to more consumers each and every day,” said Shoppee.
Daniel’s appointment is one of four new leadership appointments marking a new era for the business as it strives to shake-up mealtimes and inspire home cooks to ‘give a duck about dinner’.
“Luv-a-Duck was built from the belief that mealtime doesn’t need to be bland and boring, even on a budget,” he said.
“As grocery bills skyrocket, it’s easy to think you need to compromise on flavour when planning your meals. Because we manage our entire production from breeding to processing, we’ve been able to keep our costs low compared to other higher end proteins. It allows us to help Aussie home cooks make mealtime exciting with high-quality, delicious and affordable duck products.”
Sarah Sorenson will be joining the business as Chief Financial Officer, Cath Fifoot joins as Head of Sales, and Tim Stanford as Head of Marketing.
Luv-a-Duck Chairman and former Group CEO of Asahi Beverages Group Robert Iervasi said the new generation of leaders are primed to take the business to new levels.
“It’s an exciting time for Luv-a-Duck as we enter a bold new chapter, and there’s tremendous opportunity to show Aussie cooks what’s possible with duck,” Iervasi said.
“We’ve brought together a brilliant team who are incredibly passionate about showing the versatility, affordability and deliciousness of our duck products, whether that be ready-to-cook whole ducks, breast fillets or legs, our selection of pre-cooked meals and kits like Peking duck pancakes or A L’orange duck legs.”
Under the new leadership team, Luv-a-Duck aims to strengthen its position as the leading duck producer in Australia with a commitment to maintaining the highest quality and standards of biosecurity.
