What Would Synlait Be Worth to Fonterra or a2 Milk?
Speculation of a possible joint move by Fonterra and a2 Milk to buy Synlait raises a much bigger strategic question, says agribusiness expert Dr Nic Lees.
That's the big question, but if farmer shareholders have their way, it would be one of the executives groomed by Hurrell to keep the co-operative on its current path.
One of the names being floated around the traps is Richard Allen, president of Fonterra's global ingredients business.
Like Hurrell, Allen has been with Fonterra for many years. He joined the co-op in 2008 and, also like Hurrell, he led Farm Source - the co-op's team of farmer engagement, sustainability and milk specialists - and the Farm Source rural retail network in New Zealand.
Watch this space.
