KiwiBrothersTM make their China debut
Zespri has unveiled the award-winning KiwiBrothersTM mascots in China for the first time to market its large kiwifruit crop.
Zespri's net profit — after tax — for 2017-18 increased by 38% to $101.8 million.
It says the result was primarily driven by revenues from the release of 400ha of SunGold licence in 2017, as part of Zespri’s continuing programme to fulfil consumer demand.
The total dividend returned to shareholders was 76 cents per share, versus 25c/share in the previous season. The payout included an additional interim dividend of 50c/share to distribute most of the funds generated through the 2017 SunGold licence round.
Sales volumes through the non-New Zealand supply segment, that enables Zespri to supply consumers with kiwifruit 12 months of the year, fell by 8%.
Supply of Green was reduced because of a damaging frost in Italy. However, SunGold sales in Italy increased to offset the fall, with the Zespri Global Supply business recording total sales revenue of $264m, up from $217m in 2016-17.
Zespri chief executive Dan Mathieson says they anticipate record production of NZ and non-NZ kiwifruit this year driven by increasing supply of SunGold and a recovery in supply of Green.
“Our challenge is to continue to lift our performance by staying focused on improving the execution of our brand-led, consumer-focused strategy, supported by excellence in marketing and strong, connected partnerships with growers, suppliers, distributors and retail partners.”
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.