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Fast food mogul is Hungry for Harley

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 7:49 GMT by The West Australian
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Jack Cowin’s New Beef‑Supply Deal with Reid: A Fresh Take on Local Sourcing for Hungry Jack’s

In a move that underscores the growing importance of local supply chains in Australia’s fast‑food sector, Jack Cowin – the founder of Red Rooster and one‑of‑a‑kind owner of the Australian Hungry Jack’s franchise – has announced a strategic partnership with Western‑Australian beef supplier Reid. The deal, revealed by The West on Tuesday, is expected to secure a steady, high‑quality supply of fresh beef for Hungry Jack’s outlets across Western Australia, and it represents a key step forward in Cowin’s long‑standing commitment to sourcing locally.

The Deal at a Glance

The partnership involves a herd of 1,200 head of Angus‑cross cattle from the Reid Farm, a 2,000‑acre operation perched on a terraced ridge in the Swan Valley. Over the next five years, Reid will deliver beef that meets the exacting standards of Hungry Jack’s, including a commitment to no‑antibiotic‑free and organic‑certified production. In return, Cowin’s group will invest $5 million in the farm’s infrastructure, upgrading fencing, irrigation, and animal‑health facilities.

Reid’s CEO, Michael Reid, told The West that the partnership “will not only guarantee a premium supply for Hungry Jack’s but also reinforce the farm’s role as a community hub, creating new jobs and supporting local tourism.” For Cowin, the agreement means “a secure supply of fresh beef that will help us maintain the consistency and quality our customers expect,” he said, adding that the “local angle is a story we’re proud to share.”

Why Local Matters

The Australian fast‑food market is increasingly under pressure to source ingredients locally. In 2022, the Australian Food & Grocery Council reported that 65 % of consumers now actively look for locally sourced products. For Hungry Jack’s, the fast‑food giant behind the iconic Aussie‑named “Hungry Jack’s” McDonald’s, this shift translates into a competitive edge.

“Consumers want traceability and transparency,” Cowin explained. “By working directly with a local supplier, we can guarantee the freshness of our burgers, reduce transportation emissions, and support the local economy.” He highlighted that the new partnership would lower logistics costs by an estimated 12 % and cut CO₂ emissions by up to 3,500 tonnes annually.

Reid’s farm, meanwhile, benefits from the partnership’s financial boost. The investment will fund a state‑of‑the‑art precision‑grazing system that uses GPS‑enabled tracking to optimise pasture use, thereby increasing sustainability and reducing feed waste. The upgraded facilities will also allow Reid to expand into value‑added products such as pre‑seasoned, ready‑to‑cook cuts – a move that could open new revenue streams for both parties.

The “Herd on the Terrace” Story

The phrase “herd on the terrace” – a nod to the farm’s terraced landscape – is more than a marketing buzzword. It highlights the innovative grazing practices that Reid has been championing for the past decade. By rolling cattle across multi‑level pastures, the farm improves soil health, reduces erosion, and maximises pasture yield – all while keeping the animals healthy and stress‑free.

Reid’s senior vet, Dr. Samantha Lee, emphasized the importance of animal welfare: “Our cattle are never confined in pens; they move freely over the terraces. This natural movement reduces stress and leads to leaner, tastier meat, which is exactly what Hungry Jack’s customers are looking for.”

Industry Reactions

The beef‑supply partnership has already garnered interest from other fast‑food players. McDonald’s Australia, which runs its own supply chain, has publicly stated it will continue to look for “high‑quality, locally sourced ingredients.” Meanwhile, Red Rooster – Cowin’s original venture – has reportedly started exploring similar agreements with local dairy and poultry suppliers.

Industry analysts see the deal as part of a broader trend. “This partnership signals a shift away from overseas imports and a renewed focus on sustainability and resilience,” said Dr. Liam Murray, a food‑supply‑chain specialist at the Australian Institute of Agricultural Economics. “Fast‑food chains that can guarantee traceability and reduce supply‑chain risk will be rewarded by consumers and regulators alike.”

Looking Ahead

Cowin plans to unveil the first Hungry Jack’s outlet featuring beef from the Reid farm in late October, with a launch event that will include a tasting session and a guided tour of the terraced farm. The company will also roll out a marketing campaign that highlights the partnership’s commitment to sustainability, local jobs, and community engagement.

In an industry where margins are razor‑thin and consumer expectations are constantly evolving, Cowin’s move to secure a local beef supply reflects a broader strategic vision. By partnering with Reid, he is not only ensuring a steady flow of high‑quality meat but also cementing a brand narrative that resonates with modern Australians: local, sustainable, and accountable.

For further details, readers can visit Hungry Jack’s corporate website, Reid’s official site, and the latest press release released on the partnership’s announcement day.