Business spotlight: how the Dang family are sowing sweet success

In the heart of Bundaberg, something sweet is happening.

Welcome to SSS Strawberries, and their story of how one simple, well-loved fruit and a hard-working family are creating a big vision for their community.

Family and excellence are at the heart of SSS Strawberries. It’s this people-first approach that has seen this second-generation business grow from humble beginnings to one of Australia’s largest berry growers.

It all began in 1999 when Vietnamese immigrants Gem Nguyen and Kiet Dang leased a five-acre plot in Perth to plant a field of strawberries. Years later, they took their business across the country to sunny Bundaberg. They now tend to more than four million strawberry plants on 300 acres.

Seven Successful Siblings

Today, the second generation of the Dang family operate the business. The ‘SSS’ brand stands for ‘Seven Successful Siblings’. All seven siblings work together in various parts of the business, with mother Gem Nguyen overseeing the farm operation.

“The early days in business were incredibly challenging,” said SSS Strawberries’ CFO, Toan Nguyen. “We were young and inexperienced, and moving to a new place meant we had to re-learn everything from scratch.

“The initial excitement quickly turned to struggle as we lost all the cash we brought from Perth in the first year. With no income to rely on, it felt like we were constantly on the brink of closing down.

“It wasn't until one night when mum gathered us siblings and said, 'One chopstick is very easy to break, but a bundle is harder to break.'

“Her words struck a chord deep within us. From that day onward, we united with heads down, and worked tirelessly together, finding strength and resilience in our bond.”

Toan said those early years in business shaped the view on sustainability.

Years later in 2023, the Dang family worked with Bendigo Bank to purchase a snap freeze and freeze-dried processing equipment. This means that about two million kilograms of second-grade strawberries and other berries worth $600,000 per year will be saved from landfill.

Investing in your workforce

But they wanted to do more to sure up a sustainable future. Addressing Australia’s housing crisis, the Dang family will build one of the largest unit developments in the region.

With funding from Bendigo Bank, the development features 48, two and three-bedroom units. The complex will accommodate some of the SSS Strawberries workforce, which peaks at about 350 people during picking season.

This new housing will reduce the strain on low vacancy rates for long-term rental accommodation. It will also strengthen their position as a cornerstone for employment in the region.

“We’ve have diversified our offerings and invested in high-tech facilities. We have even contributed to Bundaberg’s infrastructure,” Toan said.

“Our journey is not just about surviving challenges; it’s about innovating, thriving and making a lasting impact.”

Investing in your community

For the Dang family, the future remains fruitful. Toan said the company would establish a lasting legacy for future generations to develop and invest in the Bundaberg region.

“Bundaberg has such great potential for growth and prosperity in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism,” he said.

“Our future growth and expansion rests on nurturing a meaningful partnership with Bendigo Bank. This collaboration will mean we can truly thrive and achieve our vision.

“As much as we strive to build and grow, it’s equally important to give back to our community. It’s our responsibility and privilege to share our resources and make a positive impact on the lives of others.”

To start your partnership with Bendigo Bank, enquire today.