WITH nearly 200 Rich Glen products crafted on-farm in Yarrawonga, it might seem like developing new products, whether in food, skincare, wellbeing, or home essentials, is a straightforward process, but the reality is far from simple.

Each new product starts with careful selection, as the Rich Glen team gathers to assess which ideas make the shortlist.

From there, the journey begins, whether developing fresh creations or refining existing ones with even better, more reliable ingredients.

Importantly, Rich Glen products contain no gums or preservatives, making the process even more meticulous.

A great deal happens behind the scenes before a product reaches the shelves, beautifully packaged and ready for customers to enjoy.

Ros and Daimien Vodusek, Rich Glen’s owners, work closely with both the production and skincare teams to fine-tune every recipe.

Ros, Rich Glen’s creative director (and a qualified chef by trade), works closely with her master craftermanship team to source the delicate brew of ingredients they then prepare, cook, and repeatedly test to ensure perfection.

Small-batch products, like seasonal jams, are crafted on stovetops, just as you might at home, while larger batches, such as sweet chili sauce, are made in sizable cooking pots with numerous taste tests to get every batch just right.

Beyond flavour and texture, packaging plays a crucial role.

Every detail is considered, from sourcing Australian-made bottles, tubes, and biodegradable boxes to designing labels, branding, and product photography.

Marketing efforts ensure customers are eagerly awaiting each new release.

Once everything is finalised, the product must be squeezed into Rich Glen’s already-tight factory production schedule, no small feat with nearly 200 products to manufacture for their three retail stores, online sales and wholesale distribution.

From concept to completion, the entire process can take four to five months.

Rich Glen’s next major release is the highly anticipated ‘Wild’ infused oil range, including the fan-favourite 'Wild Garlic', set to launch in late March 2025.

On farm, Daimien and his team wait with much anticipation for the coming harvest season to commence, most likely, in late March through till July.

Preparation of equipment and maintenance is underway and fingers are crossed for the production of yet another award winning crop.

Meanwhile, December marked the grand opening of Rich Glen’s Bright Provedore and Skincare store, centrally located on Gavan Street, just across from the famous Bright Brewery.

The local community has already embraced the new store.

Ros said the the beautiful community of Bright has been so welcoming.

"From people just popping in to say ‘hello’, to bringing their visitors back with them or even dropping off a fresh bundle of homegrown goodies, it’s been incredible," she said.

"We couldn’t be happier with our decision to make Bright part of our journey."

If you’re looking for the perfect day trip, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Rich Glen Stores in Bright, Yarrawonga and Echuca.

Rich Glen is more than just a brand, it’s a celebration of family, community, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Proudly Australian and made on-farm, this vibrant business continues to flourish, fuelled by passion, excellence and the exciting journey ahead.