SuperMarketNews Magazine | April 2024

BEYOND THE AISLES - YOUR TRUSTED INDUSTRY VOICE SINCE 1923

Christchurch Food Show

(see page 41)

editor’s note

exit through the grocerant

The combination of higher restaurant prices, cooking fatigue, and a general quest for convenience is driving a significant shift in the foodservice at retail landscape. This is not new for us to discuss, as we have been talking about grocerants for years.

International supermarkets have been moving in this direction for some time, answering a growing demand from consumers. With their promise of affordable, convenient, and diverse meal options, grocerants may be the answer for what consumers are looking for.

Foodservice at retail within supermarkets is increasingly replacing QSR, primarily driven by convenience and price. With the rising cost of delivered meals through Uber for example, supermarket operators are stepping in and providing mainly lunch, snacking and dinner options to go.

Uber was a lifesaver for many during lockdowns, but the rising cost of living is putting pressure on consumers, so they are considering both convenience and price when choosing a Friday takeaway or grab-and-go lunch.

In response to these consumer preferences, supermarket operators both locally and internationally are investing more in food service at retail. As seen over the last few years since the pandemic, convenience meals are a growing trend, positioning themselves as an easy option for evening meals. In the US, 82 percent of retailers increased their offerings of fresh-prepared graband-go meals.

Retailers are expanding their options, offering a variety of ready-to-cook, ready-to-heat, and ready-to-eat meals to cater to diverse consumer preferences. Most of these are in a deli setting, but overseas, there are also dine-in options, where food is heated or prepared on-site and eaten at the supermarket.

A surge in prepared food purchases focused on lunch indicates significant potential for new lunch solutions as work from home continues to be a favoured option for Kiwis.

Supermarkets are partnering with foodservice brands to expand their offerings and establish mini food courts at the beginning of the supermarket. You just have to look to Costco to see a local success story, with a proven formula for the instore food court and the pizza offering.

Keeping the assortment exciting with new flavour profiles and on-trend cuisines can further drive growth in this category.

The growing importance of grocerants within supermarkets highlights a shift towards a demand for more convenience, well-priced meal solutions, diversity, and enticing meal options. As supermarkets continue to invest and innovate in this space, they are well-positioned to capture a significant share of the foodservice market and establish themselves as culinary destinations for customers seeking both convenience and quality in their dining experiences.

Food and Grocery Council is an industry association for grocery suppliers providing members networking, events, industry information and strong advocacy. Contact us for information on the benefits of membership: raewyn.bleakley@fgc.org.nz

Caitlan Mitchell | Editor

island gelato co. supermarket expansion

As the demand for artisanal gelato rises, many of New Zealand's manufacturers have begun expansion into supermarkets for further growth opportunities.

Fonterra has officially announced that Anna Palairet has been permanently appointed to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO).

waste within the bread industry

Despite rising concerns about excessive waste, plastic has remained the most commonly used material within the bread industry.

ALDI has officially launched ALDIgo, a checkout-free shopping experience.

Organics by south

Auckland’s Mushroom Holdings Limited has extended its leading premium spray free exotic mushroom range by introducing New Zealand’s widest range of BioGro certified organic mushrooms, packed with flavour and nutritional benefits for Kiwi’s consumers.

Mushroom Holdings Limited’s Exotics by South and Out of the Dark Mushrooms have been forerunners in the exotic New Zealand mushroom category since 2009. Working initially with the nation’s finest chefs, founder Phil Matheson went on to grow at scale and popularise the range of premium spray-free exotic varieties in New Zealand, including Shiitake, Enoki, and Oyster Mushrooms.

"We are thrilled to introduce a new range of organic mushrooms to the New Zealand market," said Steve Hutton, co-owner of Mushroom Holdings Limited.

"We believe that Kiwi’s deserve the best at an affordable price point. We are confident that once Kiwis try them, they won't want to go back to anything else."

Under the new brand Organics by

South these mushrooms are sustainably grown and harvested to ensure the highest quality and freshness. Packed with a rich, earthy flavour and a firm texture, these mushrooms are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and stir-fries to soups and pasta dishes. Covering a variety of popular mushroom types, including staples such as whole white button and white sliced button mushrooms as well as portobello mushrooms, providing Kiwi consumers with a wide selection to choose from.

But the benefits of these organic button and portobello mushrooms go beyond their delicious taste Hutton explains.

“We have listened to what Kiwi’s want beyond freshness and great taste. This new range is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals,

and antioxidants. These mushrooms are also a good source of protein, fiber, and B vitamins, making them a healthy addition to any diet. They are also low in calories and fat, making them an ideal choice for Kiwi’s looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, by choosing organic, consumers are not only supporting their health but also the health of the environment”.

Woolworths has been Exotics by South’s primary retail partner since 2015. As such, Mushroom Holdings Limited were excited to introduce its new BioGro Certified range, Organics by South Mushrooms, across Woolworths North Island stores.

This exciting new range includes Premium Organic Whole White Button, White Sliced Button and Whole Portobello Mushrooms in convenient 250g packs. n

zespri delays start of european sales season

Zespri has delayed the start of its European sales season by a week following the discovery of pests in the fruit holds of its first charter vessel into Zeebrugge.

During Zespri's standard clearance processes, evidence of mouse activity was identified in some parts of the ship.

unilever's 15-minute wonder wash

Under its Dirt Is Good brand (Persil, OMO, and Skip), Unilever has used cutting-edge robotics and AI to develop Wonder Wash, a 15-minute-cycle laundry detergent.

Most of the clothing we wash now contains no visible stains; instead, it is soiled with invisible sweat, dust, and odourcausing body oils. As a result, over twothirds of washing machine owners choose a cycle that lasts less than 30 minutes at least once a week.

Leveraging a century’s expertise in laundry detergent formulation with robotics and AI, Wonder Wash has been designed to outperform leading detergent brands in cycles as short as 15 minutes while still being suitable for longer cycles.

Testing shows that the product’s revolutionary Pro-S technology performs better than the competition against the four biggest pain points of short-cycle users: malodour removal, absence of residues, freshness, and fabric care.

While regular liquid detergents aren’t designed for best performance in short

Zespri Chief Operating Officer Jason Te Brake said Zespri takes fruit quality incredibly seriously and has made the decision to quarantine the fruit while those inspections continue, ensuring all affected fruit is identified and destroyed. No fruit will be released unless both Zespri

and relevant regulators are confident of mitigation measures.

"We have a proven track record of over 20 years of providing only the highest quality fruit and building a brand people trust, and we won't compromise on that. This is the first time in more than 20 years that we have encountered this issue, and we have had a number of successful arrivals in other markets already this season. We are working with our shipping partner and insurers to understand the cause and to put additional processes in place to avoid this occurring again."

Te Brake said that after a strong start in Asia, Zespri's season start in Europe will now be pushed back a week. A second charter vessel is due to arrive in Zeebrugge on Saturday. The fruit will undergo an inspection process before being released to customers.

"We're now working with our customers and our distribution partners to ensure we can commence the European sales season as quickly as possible to meet strong consumer demand," said Te Brake. n

cycles and can leave sticky residues, Unilever developed a blend of fast-acting ingredients, which activate as soon as the cycle begins.

With 35 patents pending, the innovation is set to create a new category of laundry products.

“Until now, laundry detergents have not kept pace with changing consumer behaviours. By harnessing people’s enthusiasm for short cycles for everyday stains, we’re opening up the potential for a new category of short-cycle products within the laundry,” said Eduardo Campanella, Business Group

President, Unilever Home Care.

“As part of Unilever Home Care’s Clean Future Strategy, not only is this about delivering an unmissably superior laundry experience, but reducing environmental impact by encouraging shorter, energysaving cycles.”

Dirt Is Good has also partnered with the fastest man on earth, Usain Bolt, for its advertising campaign. Wonder Wash will launch in the UK, Ireland, and China in mid-April and to other markets, including France, later this year. n

chobani appoints managing director

Australia’s number one yoghurt brand, Chobani, has announced Scott Hadley's appointment as the new managing director for Chobani Australia and New Zealand.

Scott Hadley, the newest addition to the dairy food and beverage company, has brought over two decades of experience to the role. His expertise in building premium brands, developing high-performing teams, and driving success in dynamic business landscapes has earned Chobani’s confidence in his leadership.

“As we thought about the leader we needed, it’s clear Scott is the natural choice to lead the team in this next phase of our journey. He is proven and inspirational,” said Hamadi Ulukaya, founder and CEO of Chobani.

“He shares our passion for innovation, positively impacting humanity, and deeply believes that food can and should be a force for good. We are thrilled to welcome Scott into the Chobani family.”

Hadley spoke positively about his new role and the potential opportunities he could bring.

“With innovative products, a passionate

team, and a founding belief that business can be a force for good, Chobani is a company I’ve always admired,” said Hadley.

“The Australian team has built an incredible organisation and culture. I’m looking forward to building on these great foundations, continuing to disrupt the industry, and driving this business and category forward.”

Before joining Chiobani, Hadley was CEO at TasFoods and held senior roles at various established companies. His background in business and accounting will give him a solid foundation within his new role. n

Shared Sales, Sampling and Merchandising workforce

A fresh approach to sales, merchandising and sampling with innovation at our core and backed by our strong company pillars! We ensure our services are always visible, affordable and flexible to your needs. A responsive service where data is guaranteed, reducing costs.

shane jones open leaderbrand's new facility

LeaderBrand hosted the Regional Development Minister Shane Jones, who opened its completed 11-hectare mega greenhouse project it Tairawhiti.

senate calls bullshit on banducci

A fiery Woolworths CEO faced off the Senate Inquiry this week as audiences from both sides of the ditch tuned in to watch Brad Banducci.

supermarket labels confuse shoppers

New data from CHOICE has shown that approximately one in four individuals find it challenging to determine if specific supermarket labels represent a genuine discount or not.

finish introduce recycling programme

Finish, a global leader for automatic dishwashing products is now offering a new easy-to-access, free recycling programme for Finish branded dish care packaging.

COFFEE CROWNED WORLD'S BEST

Australian supermarket ALDI has won gold in the Overall Large Chain Champion category at the 2024 World Series of the Golden Beans Awards.

Their signature Lazzio coffee beans are credited for the win, supplying rich and delicious flavour while remaining at an affordable price point.

The Golden Bean is the largest coffeeroasting competition, with the World Series signifying the grand finale between the Northern and Southern hemispheres. Coffee brands and industry experts gather annually for the event, with over 25,000 submissions received in the 2024 competition.

ALDI'S World Series accolade marks the first win for Lazzio coffee, which previously won Australia's best at the Australian Golden Bean Awards in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Roasted by Melbourne's local Black Bag Roasters, Lazzio has a wide range of coffee sold exclusively at ALDI.

"Adding to our golden trophies with this World Series is another nod to the quality we work hard to deliver to our customers by working with the best supplier partners," said DanielQuinlan, ALDI Australia's Coffee Buying Director.

"With prices starting at just ten cents a cup,

Lazzio is a luxury brand everyone can afford."

Lance Brown, director at Black Bag Roasters, spoke highly of its partnership with ALDI and the opportunities it has presented.

"We are always excited to be recognised for our range of coffee beans, but it is especially humbling to receive such high praise at the World Series of the Golden Bean Awards," stated Brown.

Submissions into the Golden Bean Championship must enter coffee into three categories: Espresso, Milk-Based and Filter.

The event is attended by industry experts and coffee connoisseurs, providing a marketing opportunity for businesses to network with like-minded individuals.

The Lazzio range includes Medium and Dark Coffee Beans, Medium and Dark Ground Coffee, Organic Ground Coffee, Single-Origin Brazil and Colombia Beans, and Luxe Blend Beans. n

ausnews

AUSTRALIA | The ACCC has instituted proceedings in the Federal Court against Clorox Australia Pty Ltd, the manufacturer of GLAD-branded kitchen and garbage bags, for allegedly making false or misleading representations that certain kitchen and garbage bags were partly made of recycled ‘ocean plastic’, in breach of the Australian Consumer Law.

The ACCC alleges that Clorox represented that its GLAD Kitchen Tidy Bags and Garbage Bags were comprised of 50 per cent recycled ‘ocean plastic’ collected from an ocean or sea, when that was not the case.

The ACCC alleges that these GLAD kitchen and garbage bags were instead partly made from plastic that was collected from communities in Indonesia up to 50 kilometres from a shoreline, and not from the ocean or sea.

“We allege that the headline 'ocean plastic' statements and wave imagery on the GLAD bag packaging, and the use of blue coloured bags, created the impression that these GLAD bags were made from plastic waste collected from the ocean or sea, when

money raised for veterans glad to face court

In anticipation of Anzac Day, Coles have collaborated on two fundraisers to raise money for Australian veterans.

Until Anzac Day, Coles will donate 40 cents from the sale of every 12-pack of Coles Bakery Anzac biscuits to the Bravery Trust.

This 40-cent donation will also apply to all other 12-pack Coles Bakery biscuits and cookies sold in-store or online.

The money raised from the fundraiser will go to the Bravery Trust, a charity that supports hundreds of Australian veterans who have transitioned from the military

this was not the case,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

“We are concerned that, by its alleged conduct, Clorox deprived consumers of the opportunity to make informed purchasing decisions, and may have put other businesses making genuine environmental claims at an unfair disadvantage.”

“This action reflects our enforcement priority to take action against businesses making false or misleading environmental claims. Increasingly consumers choose

the products they buy based on their environmental impact, and in doing so they must be able to rely on the environmental claims made by businesses being accurate,” said Cass-Gottlieb.

Both of these products were reportedly withdrawn from supply to retailers from July 2023.

The ACCC is seeking declarations, penalties, injunctions, an order to implement a compliance programme, corrective notices, costs and other orders. n

into civilian life. The Bravery Trust has made a difference in communities for over 11 years, particularly for veterans who have been injured due to their service.

“Coles has a long and proud history of supporting Bravery Trust and assisting team members who have served or are serving in the Australian Defence Force or Reserves, including our founder GJ Coles, who fought in World War One,” said Kate Roff, general manager of Coles Bakery.

“Our bakers rise to the occasion for Bravery Trust every year, making nearly 500,000 Anzac biscuits in the week leading

up to Anzac Day. It’s a cause our bakers love getting behind, and we hope our customers can support too by buying a 12-pack Coles Bakery Anzac biscuit on or before Anzac Day.”

In collaboration with the Richmond Football Club, superstar members Jack Graham and Seth Campbell promoted this fundraiser by making their own batch of Anzac biscuits under the tutelage of Coles team members at Punt Road Oval.

“Richmond Football Club has supported Bravery Trust for the past three years, helping to raise awareness for Aussie veterans who are doing it tough. It’s a cause that strongly resonates across the club –many of our players and supporters know someone, directly or indirectly, who has served our country,” said Graham.

“We’re excited to play our part in getting the message out there about the impactful and often life-changing work of Bravery Trust through our Anzac Day Eve clash and supporting initiatives like the fundraising campaign at Coles.”’

Alongside the fundraiser, the football team will play an Anzac Eve match, with some of the profit going towards helping Australia’s most vulnerable veterans and their families. n

sustainable seafood awards

ALDI Australia recently celebrated success in the Sustainable Seafood Awards, being named the winner of two categories.

The supermarket received the ASC’s Best Responsible Seafood Supermarket and ASC’s Aquaculture Champion awards, proving its dedication to minimising its environmental impact.

The MSC and ASC Sustainable Seafood Awards recognise people and organisations that work to advance responsible fish farming

and fishing practices. With its goal of ensuring Australians can access sustainable seafood options at affordable prices, ALDI hopes to make it easier for consumers to make a difference while remaining affordable.

“It’s fantastic to receive recognition from the Aquaculture Stewardship Council for our ASC-labelled products and commitment to responsible sourcing,” said Daniel Baker, ALDI’s national sustainability director.

“The awards reflect the effort and

streetwear line debut

ALDI Australia is making a stylish debut with its first-ever streetwear clothing line. The exclusive collection, titled ALDImania, will be available for shoppers on April 13th and features a range of footwear and clothing.

The collection consists of 23 pieces and focuses heavily on loungewear, with jumpers, sweatpants, and beanies being the central points. All items within the range are affordable, with nothing exceeding the $20 mark.

Belinda Grice, ALBI Australia's Buying Director for ALDImania, spoke highly of the new business venture.

"We have been offering our shoppers high-quality, affordable loungewear for years, but this is the first time we've brought our own leisurewear brand to the middle aisles," said Grice.

"Designed to celebrate and champion our shoppers, this range is made specifically with ALDI budgets in mind, without compromising quality or comfort."

All items were designed in ALDI's signature royal blue, with the rainbow logo printed on the breast pockets and

dedication that our team is making towards making a big difference throughout our entire supply chain while also providing the highest quality products to our customers.”

In addition to these, ALDI also received the ASC Best Retailer award based on its comprehensive sourcing policy and labelled portfolio.

The announcement of these awards marked the beginning of Sustainable Seafood Week in Australia, where consumers are encouraged to help make a difference by purchasing seafood with the green ASC, blue MSC or ALDI’s Responsibility Sourced labels.

“All of ALDI’s exclusive label products in our seafood range are responsibly sourced, and we are delighted to continue working closely with industry bodies to ensure our products meet standards for sustainable fishing,” continued Baker.

“Every customer that walks through ALDI’s doors can be assured that by saving money at the checkout on ALDI’s highquality products, they can ultimately make a good decision for the planet.”

Companies such as ALDI are essential in promoting the role of sustainability within the food and supermarket industry, which is monumental in the success of the ASC and MSC’s message of minimising a negative ecological impact on the ocean. n

other locations. In addition to clothing, ALDImania has also included two pairs of footwear: a crisp white sneaker and a comfortable slide.

The collection includes accessories such as two variations of the rainbow beanie, branded socks, a bucket hat, a cap hat, and three variations of the compact umbrella. Customers can also purchase a doublewalled insulated mug in three colours.

"This unique collection contains sustainably sourced and recycled materials

and has been crafted to create a mix-andmatch aesthetic, so customers can inject their own sense of styling around the range," said Grice.

"We love the excitement and enthusiasm our shoppers have and look forward to seeing them share this passion on the outside with our first ALDImania collection."

To celebrate ALDImania's release, ALDI Australia will give away five sets to shoppers via its Facebook group. n

ausnews

giving back to community

Coles Australia is giving back to the community through its new national fundraising campaign.

The campaign, aimed at helping Hospitals United for Sick Kids, will help children in hospitals return home to the things they miss. The funds raised will support projects and initiatives delivered by eight hospitals, foundations, and paediatric services.

These initiatives include purchasing stateof-the-art medical equipment, upgrading kids' spaces in hospitals and expanding home services.

"Coles is delighted to have partnered with Hospitals United for Sick Kids for over five years to help support sick kids and their families in their time of need," said Sally Fielke, Coles group manager corporate and indigenous affairs.

"Many of our team members across Australia have a personal connection to this cause, having had children, family or friends pass through the doors of a children's hospital or just wanting to make a difference to help sick kids in their local community."

The campaign will last two weeks, starting

in mid-April. Coles supermarkets across Australia will donate 50 cents from every Cucina Matese pasta variety sold. Customers can also support the cause by purchasing a $2 donation card at the checkout during the two-week campaign.

In addition to this, the fundraiser for Hospitals United for Sick Kids through the Mum's Sause pasta and pizza sauce is ongoing, with 50 cents of each purchase going towards the charity.

Michael Weldon, contributor to the creation of Mum's Sause, encouraged customers to get behind the good cause.

"The Mum's Sause range is particularly close to my heart and one that I'm incredibly proud to have been a part of from the beginning," said Weldon.

"My big sister spent more time in hospital than at home for the first ten years of her life, and our family lived in a hospital for six months while she had a transplant. That's why I jumped at the chance to help develop Mum's Sause, a product that raises vital funds for hospitals and helps families create a simple and delicious home-cooked pasta dish."

Nicky Bowie, CEO of Hospitals United for Sick Kids, expressed how the Coles campaign will provide an easy way for people to support important initiatives to help sick kids and their families.

The projects funded through this year's efforts will help support thousands of families across Australia.

The Common Good, Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation, John Hunter Children's Hospital, Perth Children's Hospital Foundation, Canberra Hospital Foundation, Monash Children's Hospital, Women's & Children's Hospital Foundation, and The Royal Hobart Hospital Women's and Children's Services have all been listed as charities supported by this fundraiser. n

convenient and affordable meals

To meet consumer demand, Woolworths Australia has launched a new range of 35 convenient and affordable meal options for families.

The Dine In range was trialled across 100 stores in NSW and Victoria, offering nutritious alternatives at a low price point that requires minimal preparation.

All the meals are made to cook within 35 minutes and are air fryer-friendly.

"Our Dine In range is intended to cater to busy and budget-conscious customers looking for quick and easy meals for their families that both kids and their parents will love," said Matt Harbich, merchandise manager for chilled meats Woolworths.

"Convenience meals are not new; however, we've come very far from the bland microwave dinners of the past."

For A$25, or A$6.25 per serving,

customers can buy a full 1.6-kilogram dinner comprising of a whole roast chicken, herb roasted potatoes, corn cobs, carrot and pumpkin wedges.

Since the beginning of the trial, more than 90,000 meals have been sold. The most popular items are Mexican chicken with vegetables, chicken parmigiana with meat and vegetables, and Spanish paella.

Australia has seen a rise in consumers choosing to dine in rather than eat out, with 40 percent of customers cutting back on eating out to save money.

Since July 2023, Woolworths Australia has seen a double-digit growth in prepared meals, increasing customer demand for convenience meals at home.

"Pre-made meals are getting tastier and better, and we benefit from our Woolworths Food Company team and supplier partners being able to create a range of tasty and hearty options for us to bring to market to test and learn based on current food trends. This allows us to continue to evolve the range based on what our customers want," said Harbich.

Woolworths will expand the dine-in range to meet consumer demands and plans to introduce new products with more variety. n

liquid i.v. launches in australia

American brand Liquid I.V. has expanded its reach to Australia, establishing local manufacturing to meet demand.

“After taking the US by storm and successfully expanding into Canada, we saw a huge opportunity to bring Liquid I.V. to Australia, making it among the first five markets to launch worldwide,” said Anusha Babbar, Unilever Global Vice President of Health and Wellbeing.

“Australia is one of the world’s top sports drink markets, and prioritising wellness is deeply embedded in the Australian lifestyle, so this market is a natural fit for a brand and product like Liquid I.V. We’re excited to see how Australians respond.”

New research commissioned by Liquid I.V. showed that 97 percent of Australians agreed that maintaining hydration is essential to their wellness.

However, almost two in three admitted to feeling dehydrated at least once a week, with only 35 percent meeting the daily recommended intake of eight to ten glasses of water.

“Our research found that Australians struggle to feel properly hydrated, citing

barriers including forgetting to drink water throughout the day, thinking more about staying hydrated in warm weather than cold, and doing physical activity that results in significant perspiration,” said Clare Standing, Unilever Australia & New Zealand Health & Wellbeing Lead.

One stick of Liquid I.V. can address these barriers as it contains essential vitamins that help support immune health and enhance exercise performance and post-exercise

AUSTRALIA FACES HEALTH CONCERNS

The number of Australians purchasing vegetables, fruit and milk has dropped over the last year, raising national health concerns.

A survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has revealed a concerning trend: Australians purchased around 3.9 percent less food than in 2022.

This decrease was observed across all major food groups, with vegetables taking a significant hit, falling 14 grams per person daily. Fruit fell 12 grams, and milk fell 11 grams.

“Each person had 186 grams of vegetables a day in 2022-23, down from 200 grams a day in 2021-22,” said Paul Atyeo, ABS health statistics spokesperson.

“We also went from eating 150 grams of fruit a day during 2022-23 to 138 grams, while milk products fell from 278 to 267 grams.”

Despite the fall in these numbers, consumption rose 30 percent between 2018 and 2023.

recovery through hydration.

The single-serve vegan drink mix is not just convenient and travel-friendly, but also free from artificial colours or sweeteners, and comes in three refreshing flavours –Lemon Lime, Passionfruit and Strawberry.

The launch of Liquid I.V. has brought Unilever’s Health and Wellbeing Collective into the Australian market for the first time. Australia is also the first market producing Liquid I.V. outside of North America. n

These numbers raised numerous concerns about the health and well-being of Australians, especially as the percent of unhealthy alternatives purchased, such as chicken nuggets and energy drinks, increased.

These statistics can be partly attributed to the rising cost of produce, forcing Australians to consume less fresh fruit, vegetables, and dairy to minimise grocery costs.

It is also more common to see ‘junk’ food items on special, whereas produce and milk are less likely to be discontinued.

“Many foods that dropped during 202223 are part of longer-term trends. We’re consuming between five and eight percent less cow’s milk, bread and fruit juice per person compared to 2018-19,” said Atyeo.

In 2022, the cumulative Consumer Price

Index increased for food and non-alcoholic beverages, totalling 13.9 percent, compared with a 4.9 percent cumulative increase over three years.

Over the past five years, less-healthy options such as potato chips and chocolate have risen from 10 to 16 percent. Cereals and convenience meals also saw an increase of 9 percent. n

new citrus season to deliver 'outstanding' quality

New Zealand-grown citrus fruit is now hitting supermarket shelves and it promises to be one of the best quality and tastiest seasons we’ve had in years.

Citrus NZ Chairman Wayne Hall says limes and Satsuma mandarins are now in store, and will soon be followed by Navel oranges, lemons, grapefruit and tangelos. This season will be “the complete opposite” of 2023 when Cyclone Gabrielle badly affected crops in Gisborne where 70% of citrus fruit is grown.

“The quality this year will be outstanding. We had a difficult season last year obviously with the wet weather. But this year we’ve had a hot East Coast summer and Northland has had good growing conditions as well,” Hall explains.

“There’s a large volume of Satsuma mandarins lining up to be sold and they’re looking really good. The taste will be excellent this year because they’ve had such a good summer. So, from an eating experience, consumers are going to really enjoy mandarins and Navel oranges in the coming months.”

New Zealand-grown fruit always tastes fresh and vibrant given it’s typically picked, packed and delivered to stores within a week of leaving the tree, Hall says.

New Zealanders are being encouraged to “think outside the box” in terms of how to

consume citrus. You can eat them whole, juice them, slice segments into salads, make ice-blocks, add zest to your favourite soups, baking or meals, and even cure seafood using lime and lemon juice.

5+ A Day Trustee and Principal Scientist and Team Leader at Plant and Food Research, Dr Carolyn Lister, says citrus is renowned for its high vitamin C content but they are in fact a unique whole food package that deliver a powerful range of nutrients and health benefits.

“One serve of citrus can provide up to 179% of your daily vitamin C needs and can support immunity and deliver a whole range of other health benefits,” she confirms. “The different citrus varieties have also been shown to potentially help to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, may improve shortterm brain function and help to lower the risk of depression and dementia. Citrus fruit has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to help aid digestion, immunity, asthma, skin, and eye health.”

The sugars in citrus fruit are naturally occurring and all citrus is low in sodium. They contain essential nutrients like vitamin C, folate and potassium as well as

soluble fibre which feeds good gut bacteria and helps to lower cholesterol.

“Some citrus bioactives (like the flavonoid hesperidin) are not commonly found in other foods. Bioactives contribute to the bright colours, flavours, smells and antioxidant activity that are found in citrus and have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.”

The Ministry of Health recommends people eat five or more servings of vegetables and at least two servings of fruit every day. But 5+ A Day research shows only 23% of New Zealanders eat the recommended daily intake of vegetables and just 71% of us eat enough fruit, Dr Lister says.

“New season citrus is a perfect time to increase your fruit intake. One orange, two mandarins or half a grapefruit is considered to be one serve. So make the most of the wonderful fresh produce that’s now in store and reap all the health benefits that citrus can offer.” n

designing a circular economy for plastic packaging

Don’t just walk past that soft plastic bin – fill it!

The soft plastic recycling programme has become a firm feature in the entrance ways and exits of many of our supermarkets. You can’t do your grocery shop without walking past and seeing those green collection bins.

The results from last year’s Kantar Packaging and Recycling Survey backs this up – with responses from over a thousand participants, it highlighted a significant increase in awareness and participation in soft plastic recycling programmes. The reported rise in visibility of recycling bins, not only marks an improvement in infrastructure throughout the country, but also signifies the success of awareness campaigns. This growing recognition is a crucial step towards behavioural change and environmental stewardship.

carton recycling scheme a game changer

Like soft plastics, the recent launch of the Food and Beverage Carton Recycling Scheme (FBCRS) enables consumers to recycle packaging used for UHT or plantbased milk, juice boxes, and stock - an estimated 5,000 tonnes of cartons discarded into landfills annually in Aotearoa New Zealand. With over 65 drop-off locations across the motu from Ngunguru in the north to Invercargill in the south, the scalable recycling scheme will not only reduce landfill waste but also repurpose it into new product, such as eco-friendly building materials like SAVEboard.

what gets measured…

The landscape of packaging is undergoing a significant transformation, reflecting a growing industry commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles. In the NZFGC’s 2023 Plastic Consumption Survey the food and grocery sector placed around 97,000 tonnes of plastic on the market. About 62% is plastic 1, 2 and 5 which can be collected at kerbside. There's been a notable shift in the consumption pattern of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), where the ratio used in drinks bottles compared to trays has shifted positively in 2023, driven by changes in manufacturing practices.

Another significant development is the increase in clear plastic packaging, now

accounting for over half of the market. Clear plastics are more valuable in the recycling stream because they can be easily sorted and recycled, making them more desirable for a circular economy where materials are reused to their fullest extent. By contrast black plastic cannot be separated by infrared technology in the Materials Recovery Facility. Recycled content in plastic packaging is on the rise as well, with 23% of all plastic food and grocery packaging now containing some recycled material. This growth in recycled content is crucial for reducing the environmental impact and supporting a more sustainable system.

All these trend changes emphasises the need for recycle-by-design packaging and improved recycling systems. It’s positive and demonstrates what we know the industry is responding to - that environmental considerations are becoming increasingly integral to production and design decisions. Consumers too, are showing a growing willingness to engage in sustainable practices. We must keep building trust and confidence in the systems – so we can move towards a truly circular economy.

want to be involved?

NZFGC’s 2024 Plastic Consumption Survey is designed to gather comprehensive data on the amount of plastic placed on the market in New Zealand. Since 2020, the dataset has been growing, it provides

the information needed to do important analysis of the amount of plastic placed on the market by resin, product type, and colour, to guide where investments are most needed in the plastic waste management infrastructure.

The participation of a diverse range of companies is essential to ensure the dataset is comprehensive. We are excited to be launching this year’s survey in May and encourage your company’s participation. Get in touch with us at NZFGC to be part of this important mahi. n

Raewyn Bleakley Chief Executive, New Zealand Food & Grocery Council

persimmon renaissance capturing attention this winter

Persimmons are enjoying a ‘renaissance’ in New Zealand with social media and marketing campaigns set to ramp up during their winter supply window from Anzac day through to early June.

First Fresh Sales and Marketing Director and Persimmon Industry Council Export Representative, Grant Walsh, says research found many New Zealanders don’t know what to do with the fruit, despite its popularity in Asia, so the campaign will educate New Zealanders on the versatility of persimmons and the many ways to eat them.

Efforts to raise their profile in the past three years are starting to pay dividends with awareness growing and sales building.

A new branded punnet containing smaller fruit will be available this season to target the school lunchbox market, and a new cartoon character called ‘Persi the Persimmon’ is being rolled out in domestic marketing campaigns. First Fresh’s digital assets are available for retailers to use, and nationwide competitions will be held to encourage consumers to try the fruit.

“It’s exciting times for persimmons,” Grant says. We are continuing to work hard with our customers and retail partners to educate people about when they’re available, their nutritional value, and how to use them. And it’s working. We’ve seen wider distribution and more people starting to eat them which is great news.”

Gisborne’s Black Ferns rugby star, Renee Holmes, has signed on as First Fresh’s ambassador and will be promoting persimmons on social media along with other citrus fruit this winter. Renee was part of First Fresh’s social media campaign last year, and the company is excited to take the relationship forward.

Persimmons are a niche crop cultivated by around 30 registered commercial growers in New Zealand, mainly based in Tairāwhiti. Approximately 1300 tonnes are exported annually, with a similar amount being

supplied to the domestic market.

“There’s no counter-seasonal supply from overseas so we say to our market and consumers ‘fill your boots. It’s a winter product for New Zealand so get stuck in and make the most of it while you can.’”

Persimmons can be sliced and served with antipasto platters or added to breakfast cereals, smoothies, baking, desserts and even salads. They are technically a berry and are a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C, and also contain dietary fibre, manganese and potassium.

Domestic market grading standards have recently been adjusted to ensure Kiwi consumers get top quality fruit. “We’re actually supplying New Zealanders now, through retail and wholesale, a really good product and it’s worked. In the last few years volume has gone up and we’re increasing the value and return for our growers which is really important.”

In terms of retail price, Grant says the market generally starts quite high due to fruit scarcity. But volume comes on fast in late April/early May and from then on, they represent very good value for money. His advice to retailers is to “find that sweet spot” for retail price where consumers who like persimmons will buy more, and those trying them for the first time won’t see price as a barrier.

Grant says persimmons are a resilient but high value crop because it takes a lot of skill and inputs to grow a good quality, cosmetically clean, good tasting fruit. “I put them up there with high-end IP apple varieties in the sense of the inputs required. So that’s why we need decent returns.”

Persimmons change in colour from yellow to orange as they ripen and should be displayed in store at ambient temperature. Grant suggests retailers offer a mix of colours – similar to bananas – to provide consumers choice about how long they will last post-purchase.

“Persimmons are a sweet and delicious product and we’re excited to see where we can take this fruit category in future.” n

Wednesday 2nd October 2024

2024 NEW ZEALAND

18th September 2024

Wednesday 3rd July - 18th September 2024 2024 AWARDS ANNOUNCED Wednesday 6th November 2024

Wednesday 16th October 2024

20

minutes with

An article about onpack messaging? Sounds fascinating *insert ironic eyebrow raise and gentle sigh*. While retail brands have got better with what they should be saying, rather than saying everything, a walk-down supermarket aisles showcase how well brands that 'get it' stand out compared to brands that don't. As the cliché goes, first impressions mean everything, but that does not mean you have to say everything.

In the pursuit of transparency and shelf appeal, many brands bury themselves in badges, claims and stickers that, ironically, confuse consumers and ultimately deter purchase. As designers, marketers and brand managers, we should break away from the habit of overloading pack designs. This does not mean being overly precious with what we do include; after all, messaging about benefits, quality, diet, and process may well help drive purchase, but rather be considered and purposeful with messaging. The goal should be finding the perfect balance between saying too little or too much.

Recent studies have found that positive claims (High Protein, Good source of calcium, etc.) are more effective than negative claims (Low Fat, No Sugar) for consumers. In the same studies, any more than two or three claims on packaging leads to confusion. Does this mean there is a 'secret sauce' number of claims to have on the pack? Heck no. But it does indicate that saying a lot often amounts to saying nothing at all.

So what does this mean? For the team at Onfire, it leads to the premise that we

apply to all our work, creating a story (a 'purpose') rather than using prescriptive messages. Sorry, study time again, NYCbased communication agency Zeno Group surveyed over 8000 individuals across eight global territories. The conclusion? A brand with a clear story (purpose) is four times more likely to be purchased and four times more likely to be trusted. At the coal face on retail shelves, packaging should provide a consumer with clarity and simplicity. The opening statement should be a story that is memorable, easy to understand and relate to.

For example, Onfire's work with the Tuffy team looked at how the humble paper towel fits into the lifestyle of a modern Kiwi family. In this category, brands were traditionally swallowed in various messages and callouts. Instead, we turned the volume down on tangible benefits, which enabled us to visually show the brand's role (purpose) in the home. Bold and graphic imagery of small messes and life hacks communicate the benefits. The use of bright colours altered the tone of voice, aligning with the modern consumer and their expectations.

In recreating Farmland Foods, we focused

on eliminating the visual clutter that years of product and sub-brand growth had accumulated, instead elevating the brand name and aligning the packaging across all formats and categories. Choosing a single Masterbrand approach allowed for single colour brand blocking, which aligned to the family's butcher-shop heritage story, and refreshing the brand logo (we were more than happy to answer the 'can we make the logo bigger'? with a resounding yes!). The most important element is the coloured stickers. This consistent navigation device contained all the 'essential' information, while we eliminated messaging that could be told at other consumer touch points.

These are just a couple of examples of simplifying to amplify, embracing shelf impact, and not overloading packaging.

The modern consumer is savvy. Rather than bombarding them, engage them with a story they can buy (yip, pun) into.

Want to know more about how we can help ignite your brand?

Call Sammo on: 021 608 204

email@sam@weareonfire.co.nz www.weareonfire.co.nz. n

storeofthe month

New World OREWA

celebrating a significant milestone

The current New World Orewa owner/operators have celebrated their fifth anniversary, a milestone for owner Steve McClean.

McClean's vision was for New World Orewa to be the best community supermarket in the country. He said plans for the future will continue to cater exactly to the changing community's needs while delivering great service every day.

Originally a trade-qualified baker, McClean's first business was the Paihia Four Square in the Bay of Islands, which he purchased with his wife and in-laws in 1999. He shifted from the retail industry

to hospitality for the next 15 years, which included starting a bakery from scratch in his hometown of Warkworth, operating a cafe in Queenstown, and eventually purchasing a chocolate factory in Geraldine before moving its operations down to Queenstown.

Soon after the global financial crisis, McClean leased an abandoned panel beaters in Warkworth, where he combined his chocolate manufacturing business with a retail chocolate factory and cafe service.

McClean said it was a roaring success, moving from three staff to 26 when it was resold in 2015. In the same year, McClean moved back to Foodstuffs North Island, becoming the owner operators of Alberton Fine Foods Four Square in Mt Albert.

After two years, the site was chosen by Foodstuffs North Island to be a pilot store called Fresh Collective by New World, which McClean said was full-on, but overall, an interesting experience to open a completely new format of New World.

In 2019, McClean had the opportunity to become the owner operator of New World Orewa, which he said has been a very rewarding experience.

McClean considered the largest growth in the sector to be in health and well-being and

alternative eating trends. He added that the plant-based and speciality foods categories have continually grown.

"We make sure we are up with any new products coming through and follow social sites that specialise in these ever-changing products. There are some great smaller Kiwi suppliers in this space," said McClean.

In the past five years, New World Orewa has halved the amount of waste delivered to landfills by recycling cardboard, soft plastics, and pallet film. It has also converted all its refrigeration and air conditioning from harmful gases to environmentally friendly CO2. It has also reduced energy usage by 11 percent by investing in monitoring equipment and services. McClean said there was still much more to do, but the

supermarket was heading in the right environmental direction.

Some local suppliers stocked at New World Orewa include Matakana Coffee, Manly Park Meals and Matakana Organics. The supermarket has heavily supported Life Community Kitchens, which has ten soup kitchens around Auckland, and other causes such as Love Soup, the local hospice, and Orewa Surf Life Saving.

McClean said that the most significant opportunity for the grocery industry was for it to become more customer-focused.

"Foodstuffs North Island has been doing some great work towards being the most customer-driven co-op in the world. All decisions have customers at the front and centre. We use feedback, insights and data to become better for the customer."

New World Orewa has a high number of retirement-aged customers, whom it has catered for through smaller portioned products and single meals and has held back on multi-buys for smaller households.

McClean said that his team has been the highlight of the past five years. He said they have come a long way in five years and have worked hard every step of the way .

"I have an amazing store manager and management team that run the store with me and have helped to create an excellent culture within our team. Whether signed off or currently training, we have helped 14 apprentices gain qualifications to set them up for future success. It's just all things' team'."

McClean added that since leaving school at the age of 17 with terrible grades and not stepping foot in a university until his daughter's graduation, his greatest achievement has been running a supermarket with great importance to the local community, with over 130 staff and is the biggest rate-payer in the area, has been something he is personally proud of. He said it wouldn't have been possible without the long hours, help from his family and the opportunity to learn from many mistakes along the way.

New World Orewa has approximately 20,000 customers a week and after five years in post, McClean is very appreciative of the support and positive feedback from the amazing community. n

pak'nsave albany's revamp a huge hit with customers

PAK’nSAVE Albany’s multiyear renovation is complete, with the revitalised store offering locals a state-ofthe-art shopping experience, updated product range and renewed focus on sustainability.

Owner operator Jason Witehira - who began his career as a Retail Assistant at New World Edmund Road when he was a teenager – took the helm as owner of PAK’nSAVE Albany in 2021, bringing with him more than 30 years of supermarket experience with the locally owned Foodstuffs co-op.

The renovation was one of the first tasks Witehira assigned himself after taking ownership of the store.

"It was a big call to take on a renovation of this size on day one, but I immediately saw there was potential here and really believed that our customers would respond

well to an improved store,” he said.

Inside, PAK’nSAVE Albany’s redesigned layout welcomes customers through an expanded entrance that now features a cafe serving barista coffee, with a variety of freshly made treats like breakfast muffins and hot chicken and chips, and a customer service desk with Lotto.

“Previously, all the fresh produce sections were more spread out, but we wanted to make it easier for customers to pop between them and find their fresh favourites in one place,” said Witehira.

“The fruit & vege section now leads seamlessly into bakery, deli, seafood and

• 309 Team Members

• An Acre of Retails Space

• 489 Carparks

• 18 Self-serve Checkouts

• 18 Checkout Lanes

• 18 Grocery Aisles

storeofthe month PAK'nSAVE ALBANY

Sustainability is extremely important to our customers, so we knew reducing our carbon emissions needed to be a key consideration in the renovations,

butchery, centralising all the fresh produce, making it easier than ever to navigate the large store.”

In the frozen and chilled sections, the refrigeration units have been replaced, with the new fridges using sustainable and renewable CO2 gas, reducing the store’s carbon footprint.

“Sustainability is extremely important to our customers, so we knew reducing our carbon emissions needed to be a key consideration in the renovations,” he said.

Beyond the in-store changes, the car park has been expanded and newly paved allowing customers to access a drive through click and collect to pick up their online order groceries. Other additions include upgraded gas pumps, new LED lights and security cameras, and a soon-tobe installed EV charging station.

The only shopping click and collect service has proven particularly popular among customers, with one long-term shopper praising the pickup crew for their friendly service and for always remembering their name.

“Each time I visit, I am greeted with genuine smiles and a warmth that brightens my day,” said one customer. “It's a refreshing experience that makes every visit a pleasure.”

Witehira expressed his gratitude to customers and his team at PAK’nSAVE Albany for their support during the transformation.

“I want to acknowledge my entire team and our amazing customers who've been right there with us as we worked through all the construction and changes.”

Now with the hard work behind them,

it's been great to start receiving feedback from locals.

“People have been emailing us to say they’ve been enjoying the click and collect service, the store is looking beautiful and fresh, and that it’s easier than ever to find what they're looking for.” noted Witehira.

“I’m so happy that our customers are pleased with the changes. To those who haven't visited us recently, I'd encourage you to come and have a look for yourselves!

“There genuinely isn’t a single inch of the store that hasn’t been revitalised.” n

new world matamata donuts

The New World store in Taumarunui has announced the availability of a new product, Steamed Pork Buns, at its deli counter. These buns are priced at $3.29 each, and customers are welcome to come in and grab a bite.

These hot steamed buns gained popularity and sold out on the first day due to an overwhelming response. The store has had to replenish stock and have plenty of these savoury buns available now.

new world orewa's bbq beef rockets

New World Orewa has introduced its latest creation, the BBQ Beef Rockets, made by the store’s butchery team. These rockets are made with prime beef pattie mix, wrapped with streaky bacon, and glazed with BBQ sauce.

With the rise of convenience meals, and consumers looking for quick and easier ways to cook food, these BBQ Beef rockets can also be cooked in the air fryer, making them a popular choice.

hot steam buns at new world

The New World store in Taumarunui has announced the availability of a new product, Steamed Pork Buns, at its deli counter. These buns are priced at $3.29 each, and customers are welcome to come in and grab a bite.

These hot steamed buns gained popularity and sold out on the first day due to an overwhelming response. The store has had to replenish stock and have plenty of these savoury buns available now.

Authentic Italian Delicacies

CHECKOUT local what’s new

KRISPY KREME CHOCOMANIA

Krispy Kreme

For all chocolate lovers out there, Krispy Kreme has launched four new donuts flavours, adding to the chocomania. These include the Choc Indulgence, Choc Caramel Crunch, Triple Choc Delight and Double Choc.

Topped with chocolate fudge, the Choc Indulgence has chocolate creme, while the Double Choc is a glazed chocolate dough with chocolate ice.

The Choc Caramel Crunch is dipped in chocolate ganache, sprinkled with salted caramel inclusions, and drizzled with caramel truffles. The Triple Choc Delight is dipped in white truffle and made with milk chocolate cereal and chocolate ganache. Made with chocolate dough, these will be available for a limited time only in all Krispy Kreme stores across New Zealand, as well as selected BP and Countdown.

MUNCHOS SALT & VINEGAR

Eta

Eta's Munchos, a popular snack brand, has recently added a new flavour to its existing snack line-up. The latest addition is a mouth-watering and tangy Salt and vinegar flavour that will give your taste buds a full-on, flavour-packed experience.

This new flavour is a perfect blend of salt and vinegar, creating a unique and satisfying taste that leaves you wanting more. The snack comes in a convenient 100g pack that is easy to carry and rip open, making it perfect for satisfying your cravings.

NEW BETTER-FOR-YOU BREAKFAST CEREAL

Kellog's

The all-new better-for-you breakfast cereal, Coco Pops Chocos, is already hitting supermarket shelves across the country and offers 25 percent less sugar compared to Kellogg’s Coco Pops.

The new product is set to be a permanent addition to the company’s stable of breakfast cereals.

SAY HELLO TO HELLERS NEW SMOKED PAPRIKA & GARLIC SALAMI

Hellers

Hellers are excited to announce a new addition to their range of sliced salami with a Smoked Paprika & Garlic flavour. A play on the nontraditional, this new salami features some great flavours that Kiwi consumers love and is in a sliced format which makes it a perfect platter addition!

Hellers have taken consumer feedback on board and made sure the flavour is easy to understand, with 71 percent of salami consumers saying that being able to clearly identify the flavour is a key factor when they purchase salami. This flavour is a great addition to the rest of the Hellers Sliced Salami range which also includes Danish, Italian, Pizza and a classic Pepperoni. The Hellers sliced salami range is packed in a convenient 100g twin pack, meaning consumers can easily open and enjoy what they want, when they want.

With the Hellers Sliced Salami range growing ahead of the total sliced salami category with 3.9 percent volume growth on the prior year, consumers are clearly loving the flavours and convenience of Hellers sliced salami for their sandwiches, snacking, pizzas and platters.

Keep an eye out for Hellers new Smoked Paprika & Garlic Salami –on shelves now!

ALLAN SCOTT - A

NAME

SYNONYMOUS WITH WINE

Allan Scott

Allan Scott family winemakers is a name synonymous with Marlborough wine and is a family affair.

The winery is one of the original Marlborough pioneers and was built from the ground up by founder Allan Scott and his wife Cathy over 30 years ago. Today, the winery is run by Allan’s son and daughterJosh & Sara.

Allan Scott winery is situated in the heart of Marlborough’s “golden mile”, with multiple vineyards, as well as a muchloved cellar door and bistro to visit.

The family proudly put their name on every bottle of wine they produce – with multiple wine ranges, as well as the popular bubbly range named Cecilia in honour of the family matriarch.

All wines have sustainable winegrowing accreditation and are vegan friendly.

RED BULL PEAR & CINNAMON

Red Bull

As we get closer to the beginning of winter, Red Bull has announced its new winter edition. With a taste of pear and a dash of cinnamon, this new flavour is available in magenta-coloured cans.

SPIRULINA SMOOTHIE

The Apple Press

Apple Press has introduced the all-new Spirulina smoothie, a carefully crafted blend of delicious and nutritious ingredients. The smoothie includes Spirulina powder, apple juice, orange juice, banana puree, gold kiwifruit puree, and apricot puree, and is packed with wholesome goodness and bursting with flavour, making it easier to get your greens in.

Red Bull Winter and Summer Editions rotate through the current Red Bull Editions series lineup, including Red Bull Red Edition and Red Bull Green Edition. These flavours are sold alongside the original Red Bull Energy Drink line and deliver the same functional benefits.

Red Bull’s Pear and Cinnamon winter edition is a limited-time offering available from this month.

10 breweries, 100 years one legacy

Formed in 1923 as New Zealand Breweries, the country’s leading beer, wine and spirits company, Lion New Zealand has just celebrated a significant milestone in New Zealand’s corporate and brewing history.

This household name has achieved unprecedented success not only in the country but also on a global scale.

“Lion is one of the original Kiwi success stories, and the company as we know it today began with ten of the nation’s largest breweries coming together to form New Zealand Breweries in 1923,” said Lion New Zealand’s managing director Craig Baldie.

“Through the amalgamation, shares were made available to the public, and Kiwis had the opportunity to invest in the success of the brewing industry. Around the time, a movement wanted to make beer illegal, and the investment opportunity proved that most Kiwis did not support prohibition.”

Orchestrated by Sir Alfred Bankhart of Campbell & Ehrenfried, the

proposal brought together breweries in Christchurch, Dunedin, Port Chalmers, Wellington, Gisborne, and Auckland, including the original ‘Lion’ and Captain Cook breweries on Khyber Pass Road and Speight’s, the only brewery of the original ten still operating.

New Zealand Breweries officially became Lion Breweries in 1977. Today, Lion operates across New Zealand and the USA and has its headquarters in Australia. It also has a premium fine wine business in North America with shareholdings in several craft beverage companies.

The story of Lion is one of visionary leadership and continuous evolution. Former CEO Sir Douglas Myers put Lion on the international map in the ‘80s with the bold acquisition of Bond Brewing in Australia, ten times the size of Lion in New Zealand.

Lion has also expanded its business in New Zealand, including breweries in Auckland, Dunedin, and Upper Hutt, as well as a winery, two coffee roasteries, and several hospitality venues.

The company also produces many of New Zealand’s most loved beer, wine, and spirits brands, including Speight’s, the country’s number-one-selling beer brand.

“What stands out for me is Lion’s enduring focus on great brands and people. One hundred years on, the bold and entrepreneurial mindset we were founded on endures in our culture and the way we do business today.”

To commemorate its century, Lion has brewed a limited-edition pale ale. It also decided to delay the celebrations to this year as it completed a supply chain transformation project in the latter half of 2023. n

WATTIE'S CELEBRATES 90TH YEARS WITH INSTORE CAMPAIGNS VIA HYPER

Wattie’s and HYPER have collaborated to celebrate a momentous milestone in Wattie’s history; the cherished New Zealand’s brand has been serving Kiwi customers for 90 years. A phenomenal achievement underpinned by one of the most well-known food product portfolios in the country.

The celebration promises to bring more than just favourite flavours to the table for New Zealanders – with Wattie’s feeling strongly that enriching lives and giving back to the community that has grown with it over the years is the best way to acknowledge its coming of age.

Wattie’s month will feature two consumer promotions across New World and Woolworths NZ, designed to deepen the brands connection with shoppers. An invitation for Kiwi’s to play even more of a part in Wattie’s rich history. In response to a challenging year, with a significant rise in the cost of living, the business has put up huge cash prizes that have the potential to be life-changing, giving consumers the chance to win up to $250,000 in each grocery banner.

Ophelia Nolan-Rundle, Shopper Marketing Manager from Wattie’s, said:

"The entire Wattie’s team is filled with immense pride as we mark the start of this milestone celebration with Wattie’s Month. It's truly remarkable that for 90 years, our products have been essential staples in Kiwi cupboards. This promotion was not just a means to heighten awareness of the Wattie’s brand and our birthday celebration; it is also our way of expressing gratitude to the shoppers who have supported us for nearly a century.”

As part of an impactful in-store promotion delivered by HYPER’s shopper marketing

agency unit, Wattie’s have also strategically leveraged disruptive media assets and touchpoints from retail media powerhouses Cartology & Foodstuffs Precision Media to execute an omnichannel campaign that reaches shoppers at key consideration moments on the path to purchase.

"Working alongside the Wattie’s team on this project has been phenomenal," expressed Kylie Stafford, GM of Shopper Marketing at HYPER. "Celebrating a brand that's woven into the fabric of Kiwi family life is an honour. Beyond the festivities, delivering a promotion with such a significant prize pool is particularly gratifying —it's a testament to Wattie’s unwavering commitment to its shoppers and a beacon for business resilience during these challenging economic times."

Wattie’s April festivities are just the start of a promotional programme that will span the entirety of 2024 with various activations and promotions being planned to surprise and delight shoppers, each echoing Wattie’s rich heritage and commitment to New Zealand’s family tables. n

zerozone

navigating the zero zone revolution

In this day and age, consumers are highly conscious about the choices they make while purchasing products, particularly food. They’re well aware of the ingredients and their health benefits and consider sustainability and other environmental factors.

The surge in health and wellness awareness, combined with a deepened understanding of sustainability, has sparked significant demand for products that are effective, high-quality and offer value for money.

Many people have started consuming snacks that are either free from some ingredients or have reduced levels of those ingredients, supporting the increasing popularity of claims such as low sugar, no added sugar, reduced sugar, low fat, low cholesterol, or low sodium across both sweet and savoury snacks.

These products are sought after for their potential health benefits, whether they avoid harmful additives and preservatives or cater to specific dietary restrictions and allergies.

“We also work with many partners and suppliers to do what we do, and so in addition to our sustainability initiatives and targets, we have a responsible sourcing program to ensure we promote human rights, sustainable and ethical sourcing, and create productive partnerships throughout our supply chain,” said Lion’s spokesperson.

“We are continually researching and monitoring local and global trends. The trick is to pick the ones you can do well and then get the timing right, which isn’t always easy. An important part of new product development is validating products and ideas with rigorous consumer research.”

Zero Zone is a testament to the power of consumer preferences. It caters to various dietary needs and restrictions, offering dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, alcohol-free,

sugar-free, and more.

“We plan to evolve the category by pushing our delicious mylk concentrates such as pecan, pistachio, walnut, and pumpkin seed,” said Hayden Booker, CEO and founder of VV Mylk.

This product category has experienced significant growth, particularly in recent years, as consumers have prioritised their health. It continues to expand as consumer awareness and education increase, demonstrating the impact of consumer choices on the market.

“People still want flavour from their nonand low-alcohol beers, so the challenge is to give them body and flavours. We expect the category to evolve into the future with more variation in the styles of beers in the non and low-alcohol category,” said Katie

Haydock, operations manager of Brothers Beer, an Auckland-based craft brewery.

According to a report from Innova Market Insights, nearly one-third of consumers limit their snacking habits, while some opt for snacks that boost their health or avoid “bad” ingredients.

One of the main reasons consumers choose these free-from or better alternatives is the perception that foods that highlight their positive attributes are considered healthier. This shows that packaging and branding significantly influence consumers' purchasing behaviour.

“The 'better' alternatives make themselves look bad with packaging that is not recyclable, heavily processed, and a watereddown product with added oils, thickeners, stabilisers, etc.,” added Booker.

“They also put little nuts/seeds in the product, usually under five percent, made overseas. Why are we shipping bad packaged products that are mostly water worldwide?”

Looking ahead, the free-from product category will keep growing, and the prebiotic and probiotic categories will also see innovation.

“There is a trend towards functional ingredients like prebiotic fibre. Our Smarts Sweets Gummies are a great example of this sort of product. They taste great, they’re vegan, low in sugar, low calorie, and made with prebiotic fibre,” said Justin Hughes, managing director of Double D, a 100-yearold Sydney-based family business.

The rise of health and wellness trends on social media, such as ‘girl dinner’, ‘protein coffees’ and ‘chlorophyll water’ along with

TMI on gut and bowel issues and the spread of misinformation, might also further boost the growth of these better for you options, particularly in the younger generation.

“Consumer perceptions of guilt-free food vary significantly across demographics. For instance, younger generations may prioritise health and wellness trends more prominently, seeking out products that align with their dietary preferences and current trends, such as keto, low-carb, gluten-free, and high-protein options,” said Vitawerx spokesperson.

“On the other hand, older demographics may be more concerned with traditional notions of healthfulness and attracted to products that offer familiar flavours and textures without compromising taste.”

“Younger generations are jam-packing their weekends with social activities that prioritise health as much as they prioritise fun, and unsurprisingly, they’re the key group driving these sober-curious trends,” added Emma Brown, head of innovation at Brown Brothers.

“On a Saturday night out with friends, young people opt for a glass of Prosecco Zero rather than choosing to miss out completely.

Consumers are concerned about their health and sustainability, and brands must prioritise sustainable ingredient sourcing, innovative packaging, taste, and quality. Moreover, maintaining product quality and consistency while adhering to stringent health and safety standards is paramount.

“Ultimately, by understanding the nuanced differences in consumer perceptions of guilt-free food across demographics and tailoring their offerings accordingly, businesses can effectively meet the diverse needs of their target audience and drive success in the competitive health and wellness market.” n

zerozone traditional classics and functional ingredients

Consumer preferences differ among various groups, and brands like Vitawerx cater to these age groups by offering a range of innovative flavours and formulations.

To effectively tailor offerings, Vitawerx conducted market research to identify different demographic segments' preferences and priorities. This informed its product development, marketing strategies, and packaging design.

Vitawerx observed that varieties with functional ingredients appealed especially to youth seeking macronutrient targets, while classic options were popular among older customers who value familiarity and authenticity.

Younger generations may prioritise health and wellness trends more, seeking products that align with their dietary preferences, such as keto, low-carb, gluten-free, and highprotein options.

On the other hand, older demographics may be more concerned with traditional notions of healthfulness and attracted to products that offer familiar flavours and textures without compromising on taste.

Certifications and labels also play a crucial role in influencing the purchase decisions of health-conscious consumers. Healthconscious individuals often rely on critical statements such as ‘source of protein’, ‘keto’, ‘no added sugar’, ‘low carb’, and ‘gluten-free’ to identify products that align with their dietary goals.

By highlighting these prominently on packaging, consumers make informed choices and build trust in the brand. Collaborating with health and wellness industry experts can lend further credibility to these claims.

The health and wellness industry is also faced with several challenges, including increasing competition, evolving consumer preferences, regulatory compliance, and supply chain disruptions.

Soaring raw material costs and operating expenses have impacted profit margins for all stakeholders. Maintaining product quality and consistency while adhering to stringent health and safety standards is paramount. n

consumers first at lion nz

One of Lion’s core values is putting consumers first, and the brand does so by identifying and catering to their new and emerging needs. Nearly a decade ago, Lion first identified the need for zero- or alcohol-free products in the market since many Kiwis were starting to drink in moderation and were looking for non-alcohol alternatives.

“As the macro wellbeing trend has become mainstream in recent years, the category has started gaining momentum,” said a Lion spokesperson.

“Having an alcohol-free beer in your portfolio is now table stakes, as sales have grown from 1.3 percent of the market in 2020 to 3.5 percent in 2024 and are forecast to be 4.1 percent of supermarket sales by the end of 2025.”

Having launched its alcohol-free products in 2020, Lion has four alcohol-free beers and two alcohol-free sparkling wines in its portfolio, including Speight’s Summit Alcohol-Free lager, Steinlager Alcohol-Free, Mac’s Freeride Pale Ale, Emerson’s Little Bird, Lindauer Free Brut, and Lindauer Free Rose.

“Our brewers and innovation team have spent years crafting our alcohol-free beers to the point where they can now pass as regular beer in taste testing; they’re that good.”

Recently, the company has also moved away from the alcoholisation process to use cold contact fermentation instead, resulting in only a tiny amount of alcohol in the brewing process and retaining the flavour qualities of the beer.

“You get a beer that not only tastes like beer but has the body you expect and is still minimal alcohol (<0.5 percent ABV).”

Lion has continually researched and monitored local and global trends and believes that validating products and ideas with rigorous consumer research is integral to new product development.

“The trick is to pick the ones you can do well and then get the timing right, which isn’t always easy. We’re getting great feedback from people on our alcohol-free beers. The investment we put into the quality of our alcohol-free beers is paying off, which is great.”

A few years ago, Speight conducted some research into drinking attitudes and found that around 80 per cent of Kiwis would like to alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks when catching up with friends. This was even more true with younger drinkers aged 18 to 25.

Another significant trend in the category is sustainability, and Lion is deeply conscious of the raw materials, environmental impact and other social responsibilities.

“First and foremost, we are focused on our operations and ensuring we’re doing as much as possible.”

Lion is certified net carbon zero and has developed science-based carbon reduction targets to meet yearly. To compensate for the emissions, it cannot yet reduce or eliminate, Lion has also invested in accredited projects

that prevent or remove carbon emissions from the atmosphere.

The goal is to drive emissions as low as possible. It also releases a sustainability report annually to update progress against its ESG strategy and commitments.

“Of course, we also work with many partners and suppliers to do what we do, and so in addition to our sustainability initiatives and targets, we have a responsible sourcing program to ensure we promote human rights, sustainable and ethical sourcing, and create productive partnerships throughout our supply chain.”

There’s no doubt that consumers want to know more about the food and beverages they eat and drink. Lion supports transparency and provides information they want to see helpfully.

For example, low-carb beers like Speight’s Summit Ultra have claims on the front of the pack, making it easy for consumers to find that information.

Many products have nutrition information panels on the pack or product websites. Mandatory information such as ABV and standard drinks is always on the pack.

As the alcohol-free category has continued to grow, there is more scope for innovation amongst low-alcohol or alcohol-free, low-carb options and natural ingredients. n

100 year old sugar-free business

Australian confectionery brand Double D was one of the pioneers of sugar-free confectionery in the country. It has been making products with less sugar since the 1970s. In the 1990s, it introduced its first sugar-free confectionery made with isomalt, a natural sugar beet extract.

In the 2010s, Double D reformulated its sugar-free range with stevia and now has 13 sugar-free products, improved ingredients, and a full-time R&D team.

“We’re always looking to bring our brand ethos to life by pioneering healthier sweets,” said Justin Hughes, managing director at Double D.

“We have been sourcing the highest quality ingredients from around Australia for over 100 years.”

Hughes acknowledged that knowing where to find quality ingredients to make the best-tasting products is key. At the same time, he also understood that even if something is healthy, consumers will only purchase it if it tastes great.

Working with new innovative ingredients has been a challenge for Double D, but it’s

one that the brand has been happy to take on.

“It’s easy and cheap to work with sugar and glucose, which is why they’ve been staples for centuries. The challenge is working with new and different ingredients and processes.”

Double D also believes in affordable health, and another challenge that it has faced is bringing good-value products to the market.

A trend that the brand has recently observed is the shift towards functional ingredients like prebiotic fibre.

“Our Smarts Sweets Gummies are a great example of this product. They taste great, are vegan, low in sugar, low calorie, and made with prebiotic fibre.”

Consumers' taste for different flavours has been evolving rapidly, and Double D has leaned towards this by involving its

customers in selecting its next flavour. One of these has been the Smart Sweet Gummy.

Another rising trend is plant-based options, which Double D has already begun catering to with its Smart Sweets, made with pectin, gluten-free, and have zero added sugar.

With manufacturing exclusively in Australia, Double D sources most of its ingredients locally. Ingredients imported are not made in Australia; however, the brand tries to maintain a healthy carbon footprint regarding its transport logistics.

Although a hundred-year-old family business started by Harry Hughes, Double D has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of product development at its Sydney factory, delivering quality products made in Australia. n

growth in low-to-no alcohol

In recent years, the craft beer industry has observed a shift in trends, with rising interest in the low- to no-alcohol market segments. To keep up with these trends, brands such as Brothers Beer offer various beers and have something available for every taste.

“We're continually refining recipes to get the most flavour out of a very difficult style of beer to brew when it comes to non- and low-alcohol products,” said Katie Haydock, operations manager of Brothers Beer.

“The recipes are hard to perfect, so they require much tweaking in the early stages.”

People still want flavour from their non and low-alcohol beers, so giving them body and flavour is quite challenging. However, Haydock expects the category to evolve in the future, with more variation in the styles of beers in the non- and lowalcohol category.

Brothers Beer also sources locally where possible, and its non-alcoholic beers have 100 percent New Zealand ingredients, including malt and hops.

Their latest release has been “Shoey”, an alcohol-free lager, and “Little Brother”, a low-alcohol mini-IPA, which will be released soon. These add to their existing low-to-no category, including the Brothers 105 Low Carb Hazy IPA and the Brothers Beer Fill Yer Boots Non-Alcoholic IPA. n

The recipes are hard to perfect, so they require much tweaking in the early stages.

making snacking happier

With a mission to “make snacking happier” and a belief that all individuals should be able to enjoy a treat, Australian brand Springhill Farm makes snacks that twist “traditional farmhouse”.

Free-from offerings have been a mainstay at Springhill Farm, whether the gluten-free range launched in 2005, the latest and refreshed SLICE offering launched this year, or its boodles range available in major supermarkets.

All Springhill Farm products are plantbased, free from artificial colours and flavours, with no added nuts, and many are free from gluten.

Taste has always been the brand's biggest priority, and proudly makes no compromises. The product development team ensures that all products undergo rigorous internal and consumer testing to ensure they deliver on this commitment in each bite.

Being a small Aussie business has many benefits but also comes with some challenges. With its boodles sitting in the confectionery aisle, it plays against some of the big chocolate giants of the world, who have years of experience and deep pockets

to promote their products. However, despite this, boodles has had great retailer support and is developing a loyal follower base, with its brand awareness growing weekly and repeat purchase rates being very healthy.

Springhill Farm has taken a ‘warts and all’ approach to its sustainability journey, recently completing a Carbon Audit and signing off on a Net Zero Pathway with the goal of being carbon neutral by 2035. The business openly communicates its successful and tested initiatives and projects that haven’t come to fruition.

Springhill Farm has also undertaken significant investments in sustainable packaging, ensuring that the consumer quickly understands the information on its packs, which helps them make an informed choice.

It is also proud to be a BRC-accredited company (AA+ rated), which assesses its adherence to Global Standards of Food Safety and Quality. n

stacked gluten-free crisps

The Good Chip Company

A stacked gluten-free chip with all the taste and none of the junk, Australian brand The Good Crisp Company offers a variety of flavours catering to different tastes and preferences.

Produced in facilities that are dairy-free, nutfree, peanut-free, and shellfish-free, all of their ingredients and flavours are certified gluten-free and non-GMO verified.

The Good Crisp Company flavours include Classic Original, BBQ and Salt & Vinegar.

youth embracing damp drinking

In response to the overwhelming consumer demand for ways to moderate their alcohol intake and lead a healthier lifestyle, Brown Brothers decided to launch a zero-alcohol range with the same taste and quality but without the hangover.

“The largest barrier to entry for non-/low-alcohol wines is shoppers’ concerns about taste and quality,” said Emma Brown, Head of Innovation and fourth generation of the Brown family.

However, Brown Brothers embraced these changing consumer trends and wants with new product innovation. Given its long journey in the market space, the brand has set extremely high benchmarks around the taste and quality of its products.

“We often follow overseas wine trends, but reaching Australian shores takes a little while; consumers, particularly those in younger generations, will be eager to adopt some of the non-alcoholic drinking trends we’re seeing worldwide.”

The youth constantly pack their weekends with social activities, prioritising health as much as fun, making them the key group driving the sober-curious trends.

“On a Saturday night with friends, young people opt for a glass of Prosecco Zero rather than choosing to miss out completely.”

A step back from choosing to abstain from

alcohol completely, damp drinking, damp lifestyle or ‘going damp’ is about being more conscious about your alcohol intake and choosing particular occasions to celebrate with non-alcoholic alternatives or limiting the number of alcoholic drinks you may have in a single evening.

“We are confident that our zero-alcohol alternatives deliver the same vibrant and flavoursome taste as their full-strength counterparts, with less than one standard drink per bottle.”

Non-alcoholic alternatives have been on the market for a few years now, and despite winemakers bringing new or improved wines to the market year after year, many consumers are still disappointed with the lack of flavour and range currently available and find that non-alcoholic alternatives are inferior to their alcohol equivalents.

As leaders in wine innovation and experimentation, Brown Brothers is dedicated to expanding its Zero range using innovative spinning-cone technology to remove the alcohol.

The current Brown Brothers Zero Range features Prosecco Zero, Prosecco Rosé Zero and Moscato Zero. n

the good oil recommends food shows

The Good Oil has partnered with New Zealand farmers to grow GE-free higholeic rapeseed and sunflower crops. The team works closely with its growers from planting to harvest and cold presses and bottles the oil, without any heat or chemicals, at the Good Oil crush plant in Canterbury.

This provides incredible traceability and allows the team to provide high-quality, local, and healthy oils high in monounsaturated fats that are not heavily processed.

The Good Oil Extra Virgin Rapeseed and Extra Virgin High Oleic Sunflower oils are highly versatile cooking oils with a high smoke point, gorgeous bright yellow colours and mild but tasty flavours, making them perfect for everyday cooking.

The Extra Virgin Rapeseed oil continued to be very popular at the Christchurch

Food Show, and the brand also noticed great interest in the Extra Virgin High Oleic Sunflower Oil with positive tasting feedback.

People also loved to talk about the Good Oil sunflower crops near their homes or that they saw on their travels.

The Good Oil also plans to showcase at the Auckland Food Show. It finds such events to be great opportunities for foodies to try your product and leads to passionate customers who recommend the oils to their friends and family.

It enables a real conversation with

potential customers, in which you can answer their questions directly and tell them what is so great about your product.

As The Good Oil is available in most supermarkets, it is easy for the team to refer people to their local stockists once they run out. This is an excellent way to raise awareness, discuss all of the benefits with people, and allow them to try it for themselves.

Additionally, it has a great atmosphere and provides a great opportunity to network with similar businesses and others in the FMCG industry. n

THE GOOD CRISP COMPANY

LAUNCH AT CHRISTCHURCH FOOD SHOW

Health-conscious consumers no longer have to choose between taste and health when they reach for a snack. The Good Crisp Company’s range of potato crisps is crafted with care and contains no gluten or GMOs.

It’s no secret they weren't the first to invent a stacked chip, but they were the first to take out all the junk. All Taste. No Guilt.

The Good Crisp Company debuted in New Zealand this month and launched at the Christchurch Food Show, garnering significant attention and overwhelmingly positive feedback.

Its stand was a major hotspot throughout the show, drawing in crowds wanting to try and learn more about the products. About 7000 people sampled the chips at the Food Show, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

So far, buyers from New World, Pak’nSave, and Fresh Choice—all in the past week—have joined, as have e-commerce stores. Gluten-free and dairyfree USPs were both massive drawcards for consumers. They loved the idea of a guiltfree snack with quality ingredients.

People commented that they were crisp and had a good balance of flavour. The flavour was perfectly balanced and not too overpowering. The most common comment from consumer sampling was, “These are way better than Pringles!”

On the day of the show, the top two flavours were BBQ and Sour Cream.

Other flavours include Classic Original, Sour Cream & Chives, Salt & Vinegar, BBQ; Cheddar Cheese, No gluten, no egg, no soy, no peanuts, no tree nuts, no shellfish, no artificial colours or ingredients, no MSG, non-GMO.

The Good Crisp Company was founded in 2015 by Australian Matt Parry, who followed a gluten-free diet. He wanted to create a gluten-free alternative to Pringles,

which he couldn’t eat as they contained wheat flour.

During a visit to Anaheim’s Expo West in the USA, the world's largest Natural Products trade show, Parry gained the courage and motivation to share his family’s Good Crisps with the world.

It took some time to package and ensure all certifications were correct for the US market. In March 2017, The Good Crisp Company formally launched in Whole Foods stores in Northern California.

Over the next two years, more stores learned about the product, and by the end of 2018, The Good Crisp Company was available in natural grocery stores across the US.

In January 2019, the family packed up everything and moved from Australia to the US to focus full-time on The Good Crisp Company and bring their guilt-free canister chip to the US market.

It is now New Zealand consumers’ turn to experience the incredible, guilt-free taste.

For more information or to become a stockist, please contact sales@zebrainternational.co.nz or visit www.zebrainternational.co.nz. n

It’s no secret they weren't the first to invent a stacked chip, but they were the first to take out all the junk. All Taste. No Guilt.

MOANA NEW ZEALAND'S GOURMET CONVENIENCE

Moana New Zealand has made waves at the Christchurch Food Show, wowing attendees with its richly flavoured ready-toeat meals.

As visitors sampled the full range of meals, from the robust Horopito & Beef Ragu to Creamy Seafood Chowder, many remarked on the satisfying texture and substantial presence of quality ingredients.

This showcased Moana New Zealand’s commitment to providing a satisfying dining experience. Many were surprised to discover the brand’s extensive range, including seafood, meat, lamb, and vegetarian options.

The Food Show was about more than just tasting delicious food. It also opened more eyes to new possibilities and sparked a newfound love for convenient, gourmet meals that are naturally high in protein, low in sugar, and low in salt.

The discovery of Moana New Zealand meals' gourmet quality sparked a flurry of inquiries about where to find them in local supermarkets, with many foodies eager to bring home a taste of Moana New Zealand's culinary magic. n

WILD CHEF HASH BROWNS

As first-time attendees at the Food Show, Wild Chef was overwhelmed with people's positive responses when tasting their Wild Chef Hash Browns (medallion-sized).

Some memorable feedback included ‘homemade tasting’, ‘delicious’, ‘best hash browns I’ve ever had’, and ‘so creamy.’

The dietary-inclusive Quick & Easy Side Range (eight NZ-made products) to create hassle-free meals at home resonated with everyone.

The wholesome Wild Chef Retail Range includes Polenta Chips, Potato Gratin, Hash Sticks, Potato Cakes (Rosti), and Jumbo Hash Browns.

Wild Chef is looking forward to new opportunities for growth and increasing availability at the store level, which will allow it to bring its everyday sides to more consumers. n

BE RIGHT COCONUT ROLLS SELLOUT

The Christchurch Food Show was a massive success for the Alliance Trading portfolio of products. It showcased the new Mr Hamfreys Smokey Bacon Pork Crackle flavour, the New Be Right Coconut Rolls, BC protein bars, and Caloless lowcalorie noodles.

Customers loved tasting the New Smokey Bacon Mr Hamfreys pork crackle and were excited about the range extension in their local stores. Everyone also raved about the no-added sugar in the BC Protein Bars and frequently asked where they could be bought. However, the hero of the show was the New Be Right Coconut rolls—as fast as the stands were filled, these were flying off the shelves.

Christchurch Foodshow was another huge success, confirming that the Alliance trading portfolio of products meets consumer preferences for flavour and dietary considerations and offers health-conscious choices. n

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

sustainability in supermarkets

Sustainability has been at the forefront of various businesses, especially in recent years, with changing trends, evolving consumer behaviour and awareness about the environment, and landmark events that have shaken not only the country but the world, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and other geopolitical events.

Companies such as Unilever have long made sustainability the heart of their business strategy, from the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan to the Climate Transition Action Plan.

To define a new, third era for sustainable business, the company has identified three key shifts: to be more focused in allocating resources towards its biggest sustainability priorities, to be more urgent in driving actions towards its long-term ambitions, and to be more systemic in its advocacy to address the enablers and blockers of progress outside of its direct control.

Recognising the importance of long-term

sustainability commitments for businesses, Unilever CEO Hein Schumacher has provided guidance strategies and encouraged collaboration on complex challenges.

Taking immediate action is crucial, and adopting a short-term approach by combining near and medium-term milestones with long-term ambitions can help build a sense of urgency that drives the rest of the business.

It is highly beneficial to create detailed, time-bound roadmaps that integrate investment needs into business planning cycles and have regular checkpoints to monitor progress and take corrective action.

Being an external advocate can also accelerate sustainable outcomes, such as participating in numerous forums, coalitions, and campaigns.

Opportunities to drive sustainability progress depend on global value chain transformations, technological innovations, and public policies, and collaborations with partners and suppliers can help drive progress.

Lastly, transparency plays a vital role in all efforts. To make a greater impact, businesses need to be passionate about their sustainability agenda and the difference it will make. n

Let’s Help End Textile Waste

This outfit was enroute to end up in one of Aotearoa’s landfills**. That’s where over 220,000^ tonnes of textiles end up year after year. Making a change is simple. Using a scoop of Vanish Gold Multi Power Powder in every wash will help your clothes last longer*, which means you can give them a second life by donating them to Kiwis in need. They’ll end up helping others instead of adding to our landfills. Find out more at vanish.co.nz

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

supporting a circular economy

Handee, Purex and Sorbent are market-leading grocery brands locally made in Kawerau, Bay of Plenty. All three brands have a low carbon footprint across the manufacturing process, support responsible forestry, and the Mill utilises geothermal steam in the papermaking process.

These brands lead the way with 30 percent recycled plastic in their packaging. This packaging can be recycled again at selected supermarkets through the Soft Plastics Recycling Scheme collection bins where it can be transformed into useful items such as fence posts.

Visit here to see the participating stores in your region.

By using 30 percent recycled content, Handee, Purex and Sorbent will save 60 tonnes of virgin plastic annually, the equivalent weight of approximately eight large African elephants!

Handee Ultra Paper Towel

Handee Ultra paper towel is super absorbent and ultra-strong, wet or dry. Double Length rolls have the convenience of more sheets per roll and less packaging waste.

Handee Paper towels are certified home

compostable, helping reduce waste to landfill and reduce emissions. Now that’s Handee!

Sorbent Toilet Paper

Sorbent is 3-ply premium toilet paper that is strong in use but breaks down easily in water. Available in Silky White with an attractive leaf emboss or Hypo-allergenic for sensitive skin.

The Long roll format has 270 sheets per roll with the convenience of changing the roll less often and reducing packaging waste.

Purex Toilet Paper

Purex has been a NZ household name for over 65 years and features the lovable Rolly on the pack. Purex Mega Long White 2 ply rolls contain 450 sheets per roll, which is the longest in the market, giving consumers the convenience of changing the roll less often and also reducing packaging and cardboard core waste. n

View our new CHOOSE

handee.co.nz I purex.co.nz I sorbent.co.nz

WELL TV ad here.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

better for your customers and the planet

Organic Initiative (Oi) tampons, pads and panty liners are the only period products sold in New Zealand supermarkets made from organic cotton certified to either the GOTS, the Global Organic Textiles Standard, or the OCS Organic Cotton Standard.

This means they're made free of nasties such as chlorine bleaches and pesticides, and every product can be traced back to the cotton farm that grew the cotton flowers that make up their period products.

Polyethylene and polyester—commonly known as plastics—are ingredients found in some period products sold in New Zealand. They are linked to the oil industry and can be associated with health risks and environmental pollution. All Oi products are made free of plastics, GMOs and other harmful toxic chemicals.

Instead, they are made from plantbased and biodegradable materials and

help customers reduce waste and their environmental impact.

Oi believes the health of people and the environment are interconnected. The New Zealand business offers your customers a better choice–to avoid plastics, synthetics, and potentially unsafe chemicals in their period care products.

Oi advocates that transparency is essential to empower consumers with information about the products they use, especially as tampons are classified as medical devices.

They continually strive to provide consumers with a better choice for their bodies and the planet. n

BOLD NEW LOOK FOR ECOSTORE'S SUSTAINABLE CLEANERS

For 30 years, ecostore, New Zealand's leading brand in sustainability, has been creating highquality and sustainable home, body, and baby care products. Since its inception, ecostore has been dedicated to making sustainable products more accessible for consumers. Its new cleaning labels are designed to elevate shelf visibility, making it easier for consumers to find sustainable alternatives.

By creating hardworking, highly effective products for people and their homes and removing harmful or unnecessary chemicals, the ecostore ethos has always put people's health first and given them a choice to live clean.

In 2021, ecostore became a B Corp™ - a certification recognised globally as the highest standard for social corporate responsibility.

Demand for more sustainable options is rising, and there's a heightened awareness of environmental and health concerns. Consumers are becoming much more aware of how their choices impact the world around them.

In choosing to make a safer and more sustainable option easier to shop, ecostore has revealed an updated look for its household cleaning range. The modernised labels have been designed to elevate shelf visibility and shopability with bolder colours and stronger benefit callouts. Whilst the new labels look

Demand for more sustainable options is rising, and there's a heightened awareness of environmental and health concerns. Consumers are becoming much more aware of how their choices impact the world around them.

slightly different, there are no changes to the trusted, plant and mineral-based formulations.

Ecostore's cleaning products are designed to leave every surface in the home sparkling clean and smelling fresh –effectively cutting through dirt, grease and germs. With no harsh chemicals, naturally derived fragrances, and bottles made from renewable sugarcane and recycled plastic,

the ecostore range is safer for consumers and the world.

The changes, which will hit shelves over the coming months, will be found across the entire cleaning range including the spray triggers, toilet cleaner and liquid scourer

ecostore.com

0800 33 55 33

info@ecostore.co.nz n

finish introduce recycling programme

Finish, a global leader for automatic dishwashing products is now offering a new easy-to-access, free recycling programme for Finish branded dish care packaging in partnership with innovative recycling company TerraCycle.

The Finish Free Recycling Programme provides Australians and New Zealanders with a free and convenient way to recycle Finish branded dish care soft plastics and help divert them from landfills. In Australia and New Zealand, soft plastics are not recyclable via kerbside council recycling and majority of the time, they are sent to landfill due to the complex composition of the material. Research from Roy Morgan shows 11.92 million Australians (58 percent) owned a dishwasher in 2019 whilst in New

Zealand, 74.2 percent of households in 2023 owned a dishwasher. With dishwasher ownership having grown in recent years, increased consumption of dish care products is only inevitable.

Soft plastics are currently not accepted by kerbside recycling services in Australia nor New Zealand making the Finish Free Recycling Programme invaluable as it is available to Australians and New Zealanders regardless of where they live.

Consumers can participate by collecting empty Finish branded dish care in cardboard boxes in their homes, offices, schools, or community centres. Once their collection boxes are full, they can download a free postage label from the programme webpage and send the waste to TerraCycle for recycling. Businesses, schools and community groups can

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

also participate in the programme as a TerraCycle public drop-off point and recycle on behalf of a community.

“Here at Finish, we prioritise offering effective cleaning products to households, while ensuring we help reduce plastic waste where possible. We are very excited to be able to offer a free recycling programme with TerraCycle for our soft plastic dish care packaging, which anyone in Australia or New Zealand can access for free via their local post office,” said Finish’s Head of Sustainability, Laurie FerlandCaouette.

“While everything is technically recyclable, complex packaging may not be accepted by traditional kerbside recycling because it is more difficult-to-recycle and the costs of recycling is often greater than the value of recycled raw material,"

said TerraCycle, General Manager Jean Bailliard.

“At TerraCycle we aim to eliminate the idea of waste and divert as much waste as possible away from landfills, and even more importantly, away from our waterways and oceans. This is why we are very excited by the opportunity to work with Finish to make recycling accessible to Australians and New Zealanders in every postcode in the country. Thanks to this easy, free and convenient recycling programme, everyone from everywhere in Australia and New Zealand will be able to send their empty Finish packaging back to TerraCycle to be recycled.”

For more information on the Finish Free Recycling Programme, or to register for the programme, please visit: www.terracycle.com/en-NZ/brigades/finishfree-recycling-programme. n

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

marlborough council to recycle containers

Marlborough is now a collection point for the Food and Beverage Carton Recycling Scheme (FBCRS). The Packaging Forum's approval of the Council as a collection point is great news for the region.

Recycled containers can be dropped off at the Hazardous Waste Centre in Wither Road, Blenheim, or Envirohub in Picton.

“Marlborough can now recycle all manner of food and beverage containers. We currently send 30 tonnes of these packages to landfill each year, but we can divert them if we all work together,” said Council’s Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas.

“Once the council collects sufficient containers, i.e., around 600kg, they will be baled and shipped to Hamilton to a company that turns them into a building product called saveBOARD.”

This nationwide initiative is a voluntary product stewardship scheme supported by the users of these containers. As a product stewardship scheme, the Council or ratepayers do not pay for transporting the product, but they will benefit from the landfill cost savings.

For the cartons to be accepted, they must be cut open, rinsed and laid flat. These cannot be picked up during kerbside collection, but work is underway to see if any further developments can be made.

The Council hope to roll out this service to all the transfer stations from the 1st of July, 2024. n

oilshortage

global concern for pantry staple

For consumers, oil is an essential pantry staple that has always had steady supply and demand. However, a recent shortage overseas has put the future of global oil imports into jeopardy, causing an international supply chain issue.

Droughts, wildfires, and the spread of bacteria (Xylella fastidiosa) have subsequently affected the supply shortage of culinary oils in Europe. This has upset local stock as much of New Zealand’s culinary oil stock is imported, particularly olive oils.

European olive crops are expected to take some time to recover, as some growers struggle to stay in business with repeat failing crops. Two years ago, the global market faced empty shelves following the COVID-19 pandemic and the flow-on effect on international logistical systems.

Pure Oil New Zealand Managing Director Nick Murney said New Zealand must rely less on imported culinary oils.

“We already grow high-quality seed crops for oil production, which provide reliable,

high-quality, cold-pressed culinary oils for businesses and consumers,” Murney said.

Murney added that locally produced brands, such as Good Oil, are expected to grow sharply as more New Zealand consumers try the product based on price and the fact it has been locally produced.

Although a solution to the local market, Murney added that domestically produced oils are primarily only used by New Zealand customers.

International olive oil pricing is currently the highest in over 26 years, with prices tripling over the past 24 months. These price surges have greatly affected the hospitality industry. The cost of olive oil has increased 60 to 90 percent in the New Zealand market since 2022.

“We are hearing from our hospitality

customers that pricing is quickly increasing and putting further strain on their businesses in a time of existing high food inflation. The same trend is seen in the retail market, and pricing will likely continue.”

Olive oil makes up approximately 50 percent of the retail cooking oil market, which has put pressure on other oil varieties, such as canola, sunflower, or rice bran oils. Locally grown olive oil has been seen as an alternative; however, it only accounts for 10 percent of the market.

In 2023, the country produced 76,000 litres of olive oil, a significant drop from 120,000 litres in 2022. Locally grown olive oil has commanded a boutique price point in the past, which may become more palatable given the current global issue. n

CHECKOUTglobal what’s new

MONDELEZ AUSTRALIA GUILT-FREE LOLLIES

The Natural Confectionery Co.

Mondelēz Australia has introduced a new range of lollies in The Natural Confectionery Co. These lollies stand out with their 50 percent less sugar content, making them healthier for sweet cravings.

Bursting with tropical berry flavours, the new products Berry Wave and Tropical Blast also boast a 4.5 Health Star Rating, making them the perfect guilt-free snack. They come in exciting shapes, such as a tiger, a leaf, a wave, a whale, and a lightning bolt.

“Through the launch of the 50 percent Less Sugar range, we are redefining the snacking experience while continuing our legacy of delivering better-for-you lollies,” said Amy Richards, Senior Marketing Manager—Candy ANZ for Mondelēz.

“With consumers becoming more focused on health and well-being, The Natural Confectionery Co.’s new range provides a treat that meets the growing demands for reduced sugar snacking options while still delivering the taste and flavours that Aussies expect.”

This treat is perfect for on-the-go, road trips, parties, BBQs, or simply as a treat at home. These delectable lollies are great to share with friends and family.

KATOOMBA FOODS X PARLE KULFIS

Katoomba

Katoomba Foods Australia has collaborated with iconic Indian brand Parle and launched two new flavours of kulfi, aka Indian ice cream, made in Australia. These delicious flavours are based on much-loved Indian biscuits, Parle G and Hide & Seek.

The Parle G kulfi is vanilla ice cream layered with Parle-G Spread. At the same time, the Hide & Seek flavour is vanilla ice cream, loaded with chunks of chocolate chip Hide & Seek biscuits, creating an unforgettable flavour experience.

RESTAURANT-WORTHY

SAUCES

KRAFT’s new Creamy Sauces line has added five delicious aiolis and sauces. KRAFT Sauces also introduced its first logo change in ten years, boldly redesigned packaging, and a unified brand platform.

The restaurant and culinary scene has seen a growing interest in aiolis, which is why the KRAFT Creamy Sauces line has brought fan-favourite sauces to home kitchens. These new sauces include Smoky Hickory Bacon Flavored Aioli, Chipotle Aioli, Garlic Aioli, Burger Aioli, and Buffalo Style Mayonnaise Dressing.

With restaurant-quality depth, tang, and spice to the refrigerator, KRAFT has encouraged fans to be more adventurous in the kitchen and experiment, especially with the bold new packaging.

EVERYTHING BAGEL WITH CREAM CHEESE CUP NOODLES

Nissin Foods

Instant ramen leaders Nissin Foods USA Cup Noodles have launched a new limited edition flavour, taking a bite out of the trendy bagel culture. This unique Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese flavour infuses savoury tastes into instant ramen, adding to the brand's breakfast club.

Cup Noodles Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese transforms the popular breakfast bagel into on-the-go ramen noodles for a convenient morning meal. Unlike the original Cup Noodles, the product is saucy, not soup-based, and combines flavours of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, dried onion and caraway seeds in a rich cream-cheese flavoured sauce.

"We know noodle fans and foodies are constantly finding ways to elevate their instant ramen with different sauces, seasonings, and unexpected ingredients," said Priscila Stanton, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Nissin Foods USA.

"More specifically, consumers have been adding a dash of Everything Seasoning to their ramen since the craze took off, and we took inspiration from our consumer base to give everyone's favourite noodles a creamy twist."

Since developing the world's first instant ramen in 1958, Nissin Foods Cup Noodles has grown its portfolio of limited-edition products and stayed a step ahead of its noodle fans' everevolving cravings and eating habits.

VIOLET CRUMBLE MINT

Menz

The well-loved Australian Violet Crumble has continued to delight Aussie tastebuds with the launch of yet another flavour. The new Violet Crumble is a mint-flavoured version of the classic choc-coated honeycomb. Customers can expect the same deliciousness of the traditional Violet Crumble but with a minty twist, which enhances the honeycomb experience and makes it even more explosive.

TWISTIES SPICY RAMEN

Twisties

Twisties has announced its hottest Twistie yet, in the allnew spicy ramen flavour. This Twisties Spicy Ramen flavour combines the iconic Twistie with the savoury and flavorful taste of ramen, with an added kick of chilli. This limited-edition snack is for chip lovers, ramen enthusiasts, and heat seekers. It packs a punch and delivers mouthwatering heat.

NEW LABELS FOR CANBERRA MILK

Canberra Milk

Canberra Milk has refreshed its labels to celebrate its 50th anniversary while maintaining its delicious taste. The updated labels are across its range, which is sold in Coles, Woolworths, and independent grocers.

As part of the Bega Cheese Limited portfolio of Australian-owned products, its network includes chilled food and beverage products like Bega, Yoplait, Berri, and Daily Juice, as well as the leading flavoured milk brands such as Big M, Dairy Farmers Classic, and Dare.

Canberra Milk also supports many local community and sporting organisations, from the Canberra Raiders and Brumbies to the Canberra Cavalry and its sponsorship of Marymead, Ronald McDonald House Charities and more.

CHECKOUTglobal what’s new

PECAN MILK

THIS PKN

THIS PKN is a nut milk brand that is more than just dairy-free. With a focus on richness, nutrition and regeneration, pecans are known for their health benefits and support the local ecosystem.

Pecan milk also has a creamy, buttery taste that other alternatives lack. THIS PKN’s Original and Chocolate flavours taste like the pecans you know and love, with no added sugar or vegetable oils, reminding you of grandmother’s pecan pie.

FROZEN CITRUS CUBES

Naked Rivals

Saving time and money just got easier as Naked Rivals launched its 100 percent juice in frozen cubes. These blocks contain freshly squeezed lemon and lime juices without peels or preservatives.

Each cube stays fresh for up to two years, so you always have citrus on hand. This is also quite convenient, as the packaging has an easy-peel film and a tray designed to make it easy to pop out a cube anytime. The packaging is also recyclable, reducing food waste.

SPRINGHILL FARM COOKIES AND CRÈME

Springhill Farm

The combination of chocolate cookies and white chocolate is a match made in heaven and over the years, these two favourites have formed a strong bond and continue to impress consumers with their delightful flavour profile.

SPRINGHILL FARM

PASSIONFRUIT AND LIME

Springhill Farm

The Springhill Farm Passionfruit and Lime flavour is another new addition to the family. It features a creamy vanilla base with a zesty lime and tangy passionfruit twist. This fun and fruity flavour will surely delight everyone with its unique taste experience.

TIMTAMTASTIC! AUSTRALIAN CHOCOLATE BISCUIT MAKES DEBUT

IN UK AND GOES VIRAL

Arnott's

Waitrose stores are now stocking Original, Chewy Caramel and Dark Chocolate Tim Tams.

With the rise of TikTok trends and social media influencers, the Australian cult favourite, Tim Tam was welcomed as many social media stars rushed to Waitrose stores.

Within 24 hours, there was a 202% increase in searches for Tim Tam on the Waitrose website.

One food review page, @tripleeatsfood, shared his Waitrose trip on social media, captioned 'TIM TAMS IN THE UK!' which has garnered 4k likes and 158k views in just a day.

Various customers also expressed their delight about the product and the demand has been phenomenal so far.

Waitrose is excited to see which flavour will become the favourite and even suggested a taste test.

PRINGLES X CROCS Pringles

Pringles has entered the world of footwear with three limited-edition Pringles-inspired designs in fan-favourite Crocs styles and even a new Pringles flavour.

The Pringles Croc-Tail Party is a limitededition watermelon chilli lime flavour that packs a sweet, spicy, tangy fusion in every bite, capturing the essence of the Pringles x Crocs partnership.

Each unique pair of Crocs celebrates Mr P's iconic looks. The Classic Crush Boot has the iconic Pringles-red and a stacked crisp heel, while the clogs include Mr P's moustache as the strap in four mix-and-match colours.

Fans can also rock the slides featuring a retro black-and-white Mr P design or enhance their look with five Pringles-themed Jibbitz charms.

The exclusive Pringles x Crocs collaboration will be available globally, with the Pringles Croc-Tail Party flavour available exclusively in the U.S.

END EXPLOITATION

Waitrose x Tony's

Waitrose has become the first UK retailer to partner with Tony's Open Chain, an initiative created to end exploitation in the cocoa industry.

Through Tony's Open Chain model, cocoa has been sourced and used within six Waitrose chocolate bars and three Cook's ingredients bars.

The initiative, started by Tony's Chocoloney, supports more sustainable cocoa sourcing throughout the industry.

"We're proud to be the first UK retailer to join Tony's Chocolonely in their mission to end cocoa exploitation, but we definitely hope we aren't the last," said Charlotte Di Cello, Waitrose's commercial director.

Through sustainable practices, Tony's Open Chain minimised child labour rates from 46.7 percent, the industry average, to 4.4 percent. Additionally, all of Tony's Open Chain cocoa is Fairtrade certified and is verified to be deforestation-free.

20 minutes with

Over the years, the lack of innovation in the period care space has left consumers very short-changed. Tampons and single-use pads are often uncomfortable and unreliable, and this is where Hello Period stands out from the rest.

As a registered nurse, the cofounder of Hello Period wanted to design products that are not only comfortable and easy to use but also more durable than single-use products.

Hello Period is the only period care brand in the world to offer sustainable products for anyone with a period, both internal and external. This includes its best-selling menstrual discs and cups, period underwear, and reusable pads.

The brand has also won numerous awards, including gold at the Best Awards. It stands true to its ethos and is proudly B Corporation-certified and climate-positive,

which consumers trust for reliability and quality.

“We love that what we do has become mainstream, and we are grateful to all our retailers committed to making sustainable choices for their customers,” said Robyn McLean, CEO and founder of Hello Period.

“We also support retailers with clear point of sale information, including ‘how to use’ QR codes and ensuring our packaging has useful product information and looks good on the shelf.”

The brand’s latest innovation is its Hello Disc, a top-reviewed menstrual disc globally on Google with a patented design. This onesize-fits-all solution makes it outstanding

from a retailer's perspective.

Similarly, its Hello Pad is one size, machine washable and dryer-friendly, designed to replace single-use pads. It also holds up to five times more than a regular pad, making it much more convenient for the user.

“To compete with products that people with periods have used for years, we must ensure our products work better than the status quo. We invest heavily in the design process to make our products the best in the market.”

Although a for-profit business, Hello Period remains mindful of its impact. Its products are designed to last years, not hours, and its packaging is fully homecompostable and recyclable. The brand wants consumers to be given more choices than they traditionally had regarding period products.

“While the products might have a different turnover than single-use products, we all have a part to play in ensuring that

we look after our planet and retailers who acknowledge that are leading the way.”

Education is another major cornerstone for Hello Period, which shares many informative videos on its social platforms and provides video education training for retailers so they can help their customers make informed purchase decisions.

Not only is the brand known for its videos, but its marketing is quite fun and engaging, with taglines such as “bloody brilliant” and “no strings attached”.

“We don’t take ourselves too seriously, and customers love our tone of voice. We also listen to our customers. I still read most customer emails to ensure I remain in touch with their thoughts and feedback.”

In response to customer feedback, Hello Period launched the black Hello Disc, which many wanted.

“We work with a compliance advisor to ensure we meet and exceed industry standards for our markets. The market isn’t

overly regulated, but we operate in a way that assumes it is from certified medicalgrade materials to best-practice plastic-free and fully recyclable packaging.”

Like most businesses, the brand wants further expansion and would love to add Foodstuffs to its retail network this year. It is already available in Woolworths, Chemist Warehouse, Bargain Chemist, TerryWhite Chemmart and other pharmacies.

“We want to continue to stake our place as New Zealand’s leading sustainable period care brand. Our Hello Cups and Hello Discs are made here in Aotearoa, which we are very proud of. We already export and have retailers in many countries.”

Hello Period believes that the future of period care is in a sustainable, reusable space and is involved in various period initiatives. One of its programmes is Hello Kindness, which helps address period poverty. It is also the official period care partner for Water Polo Australia and Royal New Zealand Ballet. n

health&beauty

epa bans forever chemicals in cosmetics

New Zealand is one of the first countries in the world to take a step regarding PFAs, aka ‘forever chemicals’, to protect consumers and the environment as the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) banned the use of per– and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) in cosmetic products from the 31st of December, 2026.

PFAs are sometimes used in nail polish, shaving cream, foundation, lipstick, and mascara to smooth the skin or to make cosmetic products more durable, spreadable and water resistant.

“We know these chemicals don’t easily break down; they can build up in our

bodies, and some can be toxic at high levels,” said Dr Shaun Presow, Hazardous Substances Reassessments Manager.

International research has suggested that PFAs are only found in a few products, but banning these chemicals in cosmetics is part of the ongoing response, which includes phasing out all PFAs-firefighting foams and testing for background levels of PFAs in the New Zealand environment.

The decision on PFAs is one of several updates made to the Cosmetic Products Group Standard to ensure cosmetic products are safe and better aligned with international developments.

“We’ve also strengthened the regulations

so non-hazardous cosmetic products that contain a hazardous ingredient are now regulated. This makes it easier for us to enforce the rules around banned and restricted ingredients found in these products.”

The EPA publicly consulted on the rule changes in 2023 and received 20 submissions, including 14 from the cosmetics industry. The feedback from this consultation helped better understand how widespread PFA use is in cosmetics.

“We will continue to engage with industry to manage the transition before PFAS are banned and the other changes take effect.” n

WALMART BLOOMS BEAUTY AISLE

To prepare for spring this year, Walmart has introduced new beauty offerings, including the second group of brands from the Walmart Start accelerator program, improvements to Beauty Virtual Try-On, the return of the Beauty Glow Up savings event, and the latest trends for the season.

Creighton Kiper, Vice President of Beauty Merchandising at Walmart U.S., was thrilled to unveil the new selection of products.

Two years ago, Walmart introduced the exclusive Walmart Start program, a unique opportunity for brands to accelerate their growth in the beauty industry.

asda uk launches online pharmacy

Asda has become the first UK supermarket to launch an online prescription service. The retailer has partnered with Pharmacy2U, the largest NHS-approved online pharmacy. Pharmacy2U is committed to making healthcare accessible to the whole family and is proud to have partnered with Asda to bring online prescription services to a place of ease for their customers.

“Supermarkets play a huge role in daily life, making this a natural yet exciting next

step for patients,” said Kevin Heath, CEO of Pharmacy2U.

Asda Online Pharmacy offers a convenient platform for patients to manage their prescriptions online. With the service, prescriptions can be easily arranged for delivery to the patient's home address, saving them the hassle of visiting a physical pharmacy.

New patients can register an account online, order prescriptions for home

Notable names like Dossier, The Hair Lab by Strands, Pardon My Fro, and PaintLab emerged from this class and significantly expanded their product range.

Brands interested in joining the Walmart Start program can look for applications for the next class on the Walmart Start homepage. This year, brands not selected for the program may qualify for program discounts or referral fee discounts to help them onboard and get started on Walmart Marketplace.

Earlier this year, Walmart also announced a significant expansion to its Beauty Virtual Try-On technology on its iOS app. This technology lets customers try nearly 500 hair colour products in real-time.

Walmart's Beauty Glow Up savings event is also returning, as the retail giant foresees upcoming seasonal trends, including the "skinification" of hair, with more hair care products featuring critical ingredients from the skincare world.

Younger customers drive growth across this category, and Walmart is building its assortment to align with their interests. n

delivery and track their orders conveniently. Qualified pharmacists will thoroughly check prescriptions ordered through Asda Online Pharmacy and deliver straight to the patients’ door at no additional cost.

A click-and-collect option will also be introduced at Asda’s pharmacy locations, providing even more convenience for customers.

“We're thrilled to announce the launch of our online prescription delivery service with Pharmacy2U. This platform allows us to reach even more Asda customers across the country, some of whom may not have an Asda Pharmacy nearby,” said Faisal Tuddy, Asda Pharmacy’s head of pharmacy and superintendent pharmacist.

“We know how important it is for families to access their repeat prescriptions without worrying. This expansion ensures greater convenience for our patients, who can now easily access these services online.” n

the warehouse dunedin frozen meals

The Warehouse recently announced the release of its Market Kitchen frozen readymade meals at its Hillside Road store in South Dunedin.

The Market Kitchen's frozen dishes have been created to suit the tastes and wallets of the locals in Dunedin and consist of three new options. These include the 1.5kg Market Kitchen Classic Beef Cottage Pie, 1.5kg Market Kitchen Smokey Bacon Macaroni and Cheese and 1.2 kg Market Kitchen Traditional Beef Lasagne.

These meals are priced at $20 and available only in-store at Hillside Road.

Ryan Murphy, The Warehouse Grocery Lead, stated that the company has responded to Dunedin locals' demand for affordable and quick eats that do not compromise on quality.

“These meals are high-quality and are priced at just $20, making them a great option for busy families or students looking to fuel their study sessions.”

Grocery sales now make up one-fifth of The Warehouse's total sales, reflecting a growing preference among Kiwi families for its affordable groceries. The group offers more than 9,000 grocery products and has expanded its fresh fruit and vegetable reach.

The Market Kitchen frozen meals were first trialled in Manukau before being rolled out in Dunedin. South Dunedin is only the second Warehouse store in the country to trial frozen ready-made foods.

All three of these frozen meal options are made in New Zealand, with no preservatives, artificial colours, or flavours. They are a healthy and nutritious meal option for the whole family at a super affordable price.

If this trial goes well, The Warehouse plans to expand its fresh and frozen ranges further across Dunedin and Otago. n

restaurant-like ready to eat meals

As businesses were forced to rethink their business models during the pandemic, more and more customers switched to takeaways and ready-to-go food. This has followed through even post-COVID; customers still expect a higher-quality meal in the convenience foods category.

Sydney-based restaurant Yulli’s has captured this market trend and launched a take-home range, Yulli’s At Home. Not only does the company provide convenience, but it is also 100 percent plant-based, catering to the growing demand for vegan, gluten-free, and other specific consumer food preferences.

“All of our products are 100 percent plant-based, and three of four of our readyto-go products are 100 percent gluten-free. The fourth product is served with a side of couscous, which isn't gluten-free, but the meal itself is,” said owner Karl Cooney.

“We’re most proud of the quality of food and flavour we offer at a very affordable price.”

According to Cooney, one of the biggest challenges in the convenience foods industry is the lack of consumer education and the stigma in terms of quality or prep time with frozen foods.

“People need to learn how awesome frozen meals can be and the added value they bring in terms of shelf life.”

Maintaining affordable prices is another massive challenge. However, he thinks that can be managed and that quality is critical.

“My family and I will always repurchase products that we enjoy. Branding is important, and so is the price point, but for me, it is always about the quality of the product.”

Growth phases are always exciting times when we see small producers and manufacturers push boundaries to maintain competitive edges, which the big players are never able to do.

Lately, there has also been a considerable shift away from plastics in the packaging industry, from a sustainability and a health perspective, and Yulli’s has managed almost wholly to minimise plastic.

“Growth phases are always exciting times when we see small producers and manufacturers push boundaries to maintain competitive edges, which the big players are never able to do.”

Cooney thinks there are still plenty of growth opportunities in single-serve readyto-go meals, and consumers will continue seeking higher-quality meals, highlighting potential growth in larger meals for couples or families.

Yulli’s has already begun exploring this sector with its At Home Range, offering family-sized pies and curry tubs that can feed a couple or even a family of four. n

conveniencemeals enriching consumer lifestyles with convenience

As people’s lives get busier, they have less time to spend on activities like shopping, cooking and cleaning. This has led to a rapid boom in the category of convenience meals.

“It's an exciting time in the world of healthy, ready-made meals. It’s all about making the most of our time, doing things we enjoy,” said Taran Machra, founder of Swolefoofds.

“Having spent over twenty years in the health and fitness realm, I’ve got a pretty good handle on what folks need regarding food relating to their wellness goals.”

Swolefoods is more than just dish out meals; it aims to keep its consumers motivated and on track with their health goals. Staying consistent is tough, and that’s precisely where they cater.

The brand has also built connections with top athletes and sports teams to show its commitment to functional, quality meals.

“Joining Swolefoods is like joining a family—all of us cheering each other on, striving to be our best selves.”

According to Machra, the coming year will see significant growth in the healthy dessert segment, owing to the rising awareness of the negative effects of increased sugar consumption and the quest for satisfying alternatives that do not compromise on taste. This segment is poised for growth as it aligns with the evolving preferences for healthier indulgence.

At the same time, the industry has also been facing several challenges, including the escalating costs of high-quality production, rising ingredient prices, and labour shortages. These affect efficiency and quality, which are paramount in the industry.

“In a small place like New Zealand, winning over customers is about standing out. You can’t just be another option on the shelf; you must be ‘the’ option. It’s about connecting with our customers, sharing stories they can relate to, and offering something unique.”

Sustainability is another important challenge, and the brand has been doing its best. It wished eco-friendly options were more affordable. All Swolefoods packaging is recyclable and safe, and it has continued

to look for the next big thing in eco-friendly materials.

Swolefoods has been developing a new product category for the past 15 months and is ready to launch it this year. It was among the first businesses to sign the ‘Better Chicken Commitment’, a worldwide movement addressing animal welfare, sustainability, and food safety concerns.

As it looks to the future, Swolefoods remains dedicated to enriching customers' lives, providing choices that feed their bodies and aspirations for a healthier lifestyle. n

cash&carry

selgros and schweitzer

The 15-year partnership between the wholesale company Selgros and Schweitzer is entering the next round with the opening of the new Cash & Carry store in Lubin, Poland.

Unlike in German Selgros stores, the retail outlets in Poland are also accessible to end consumers, which is why service departments have been implemented in all fresh food areas.

The store covers an area of 8,531 m² and is located in a shopping centre that also houses other companies and retail spaces, including a fitness studio.The customer reaches the entrance to the classic Selgros sales area in the mall via the shopping centre. To welcome customers at the entrance to the mall, Selgros has installed its own restaurant and spacious seating area; the Brasserie is where professional chefs prepare a wide selection of dishes in front of customers. For the new C&C store, the successful Selgros Braunschweig store concept was used in Poland for the first time. The visual language and large graphics, representing the original Selgros concept, were adopted in the same style and adapted to the location. The graphic concept in the mall was enhanced with content on the history and city of Lubin, which is rooted in mining. In this sense, wall graphics with scenes from the mining industry accompany the shopper through all departments.

The Brasserie is a meeting point for consumers who want a quick coffee or a snack. It is characterised by different seating furniture that defines different zones in the restaurant. In addition, the differences in the height of the building are particularly well emphasised in this area.

As in all Selgros stores, customer service is located at the entrance to the store, and customers are greeted with non-food and seasonal items. In keeping with the mining graphics, the recognisable brick look from Braunschweig runs like a red thread through the entire sales area of the store. In the entrance area is the wine and spirits department and the checkout area, emphasising the industrial look of the overall concept.

The fresh food departments follow the style of Selgros Braunschweig in terms of graphics and choice of materials and contribute significantly to the marketplace character. The large wall graphics vary depending on the department and help the consumer to differentiate between the various services. Like all the fresh food counters in the store, a refrigerated cabinet for smoked products, specially developed for the Lubin site, was also produced by Schweitzer.

Project profile

Client: Selgros Poland

Location: Lubin, Poland

Area: 8.531 m²

Date Opened: 14.03.2023

Interstore: Concept, design, graphics, layout planning.

Schweitzer: Project management, shopfitting, production, installations, specialty cases, lighting, and ceilings.

Schweitzer's refrigerated counter production supplied all fresh food counters. n

IMPULSEconvenience

The Reimagined Service Station

Reimagining the service station is a growing trend. With expanded food-to-go offerings and a wider variety of grocery products, the service station is no longer just a place to buy fuel and perhaps that emergency can of pet food.

The oil channel has become more than a competitor for the local dairy - it is a real challenger to cafes and QSRs.

Operators worldwide are upgrading the service station layout with improved foodto-go options and more variety in grocery and beverage selections.

Dairies have always been a one-stop shop for convenience; however, over time, the expansion of the oil channel into grocery has become another competitor to the corner dairy.

Given the changes the pandemic wrought, it's easy to see why consumers turn to the service station as a convenient go-to for a wide range of services beyond last-minute essentials and fuel.

With some service stations now providing a cafe-style sit-down area, it's easy to see why this option is becoming popular if space allows.

With a focus on providing more

comfortable spaces to sit and relax and providing more than just a pie and a drink, these sites are becoming a go-to for more than just fuel.

COVID-19 was a blow to fuel sales, yet the pandemic did spark a promising opportunity: operators with a robust retail business saw that in-store sales and online options helped offset fuel sale declines. Retail had become a matter of business resiliency, and many quickly adapted.

Moving past the pandemic, the newlook service station is creating new value streams, and fuel retailers have adapted to rapidly changing customer habits.

These developments required operators to reorient themselves toward alternative income streams and have been quick to take up the challenge.

It's a case of selling more to the same customer. When customers purchase fuel, they can buy coffee, lunch, or a snack or pick up essential grocery items like bread, milk, or cat food—the "would you like fries with that" scenario.

Diversification at fuel retail has become more crucial than ever. It is no longer just a nice-to-have option; it is fast becoming a must.

Many innovative fuel retailers were early adopters, but many have now embarked on the journey to transform their businesses,

moving decisively to secure their existing sources of value while developing new value pools.

Among the assets that fuel retailers have are an established customer base, existing loyalty programmes, solid customer touchpoints, and, of course, the data they have collected about their customers.

This advantage provides an ideal opportunity to rethink the service station as a convenience store, revamping existing loyalty programmes to drive new growth areas beyond fuel sales.

What was once seen as a place to grab cigarettes, fuel up, or coffee while on the go, thanks to changing consumer behaviours, the service station has been reimagined.

From connecting to the consumer via delivery sites like Uber to loyalty programmes offering free coffee, consumers are increasingly faced with more choices at the service station than ever.

Consumer loyalty once sprang from a relationship with the service station owner; now, consumers are open to online ordering a variety of goods from the service station and being rewarded for repeat business.

Now, consumers are targeted with a compelling and consistent brand experience at the service station and are engaged and ready to buy. n

Service Station Refresh

Z has continued to refresh select retail outlets in its service stations across the country. The refresh, announced in its 2024 annual report, presents an opportunity for Z to reintroduce its retail offering in a modern setting.

“Z continues to invest in its brand and customer experience at its retail stores. We are currently in the process of a retail site refresh at select Z sites, presenting a cleaner, more modern and consistent offer for customers. We completed over 30 site refurbishments in 2023 and plan to complete a further 35 this year,” the company said in a statement.

The refreshed store design centres on a higher-quality espresso coffee range, with trained baristas and group-handled and manually operated machines. In 2023, Z service stations sold over six million cups of coffee, which is expected to grow further in 2024. This has been a key reason behind Z’s investment in its convenience customer offerings, as well as the progressive introduction of new products and services. Among the 189 Z-branded retail service stations, convenience retail remains a core

aspect of the business, as customers diversify from those seeking meals on the go to those charging their EVs.

Whilst Z’s convenience retail offerings continue to deliver growth, there has been a strong emphasis on embracing digital payment options for customers that deliver speed and convenience. Such digital payment options like ‘Pay at Pump’ and ‘Pay by Plate’ have seen a steady increase in popularity year-on-year. The company said that there were plans to continue to innovate in the digital payment space, which was in line with customer demand.

The report also outlined that customer purchasing patterns have significantly altered since the Covid-19 lockdowns and predicted that new patterns were likely to be permanent. In response to the high percentage of the population that still works from home, Z has committed to developing new customer reward programmes in 2024 to reflect the modern customer.

“Z has always believed that delivering real convenience is key to earning loyalty, and our digital capabilities deliver for us here in meeting customers where they are.”

An example is the growing number of customers who have chosen to use the Z App to pre-order and pre-pay for their coffee, which is ready to go upon their arrival.

“We measure the strength of the Z brand, which continues to perform strongly, based on our promise of ‘Z is for Aotearoa New Zealand’. Z continues refining its brand strategy to deliver a more consistent voice, message and customer experience.” n

IMPULSEconvenience

Volvo Cars Use Biogas in China

Volvo Cars’ Taizhou manufacturing plant has switched to biogas, making it the first plant in China to achieve climate-neutral status. The plant’s switch from natural gas will reduce more than 7,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Despite being a small share of its total Scope 1-3 emissions of 43 million tons, securing climate-neutral energy for the Taizhou plant was essential for Volvo’s goal of having climate-neutral manufacturing operations by 2025.

Like all its other manufacturing plants worldwide, the Taizhou plant already uses climate-neutral electricity, and this latest move ensures that it also has climate-neutral heating.

“We’re acting fast when viable climateneutral energy alternatives become available,” said Javier Varela, Volvo Cars' COO and deputy CEO.

The Taizhou plant produces around 40 percent of its electricity from on-site solar panels. The remaining 60 percent is also climate-neutral electricity from solar. With this latest switch, its heating needs are met by using climate-neutral biogas.

Volvo Cars also recently expanded its sustainability strategy, aiming to reach zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. n

Google Maps Updates EV Charging Information

Electric cars are becoming more popular, increasing the need for charging options. Google Maps and Search have introduced new features to help electric vehicle owners find more helpful information about charging stations. With these updates, users can easily find specific information about the location of EV chargers, plan charging stops for road trips, and more.

To make it easier to finpreciselyly where charging stations are located, Google

Maps will soon start showing AI-powered summaries that describe a charger's specific location based on helpful information from user reviews.

This will ensure that users can quickly navigate to the charging station, even in a tricky location like the right area of a multilevel parking lot. If you're low on charge while driving or need to top off while running errands, you'll soon see nearby chargers on the in-car map, with information like real-time port availability and charging speed.

This update will roll out globally, starting in the coming months, with vehicles with Google built-in. Google Maps is also expanding its capability to suggest the best charging locations for multi-stop trips.

Maps suggest the best charging stops based on your battery's charge level. This feature will soon be available globally for vehicles with Google built-in.

For those who plan to stay overnight, Google has introduced a new EV filter to help you find hotels that offer onsite EV charging, so you don't have to waste time hunting for a charging station after a long day of driving. n

AVAS For Australian EVs

The Albanese government has planned to introduce a new design rule to enhance the safety of pedestrians around quiet electric vehicles, trucks, and buses that travel at low speeds.

Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) is a safety sound or alert when these vehicles travel in driveways, car parks, and intersections.

Compared to conventional petrol or diesel vehicles, quiet vehicles are difficult for pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents, especially for people with visual impairments who rely on sounds to navigate.

“As more and more Australians choose to drive EVs, we are committed to ensuring that they are safe for both drivers and others using the road,” said Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King.

“This is a significant win for the blind and low-vision community, which has long advocated for alert systems like this to be introduced in Australia.”

From November 2025, the new Australian Design Rule (ADR) will mandate the installation of AVAS on all new electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel

cell cars, trucks, and buses.

The installation of AVAS will not increase the noise levels, and the vehicles will still be as quiet as conventional petrol or diesel vehicles. n

Australia Tobacco Sales Through Vending Machines

A study published by the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health showcases Insights from owners and managers of Australian alcohol-licenced premises with different licencing schemes.

Tobacco sales in alcohol-licenced premises have presented a problem for attempting quitters and people who smoke occasionally. For most alcohol-licenced venues that sold tobacco exclusively through a vending machine, the profit from these sales was not considered necessary for the business.

EFTPOS Hardware Upgrade Deadline

Payments NZ is reminding merchants to check the age of their EFTPOS terminals as an important deadline for upgrading older models approaches.

Any devices running on the PCI 3.x standard will no longer be compliant after 30 June 2024, leading to their disconnection from Aotearoa New Zealand’s payment network.

Payments NZ chief executive Steve Wiggins said hardware is phased out as more modern and secure technology becomes available.

“The payments industry works hard to ensure New Zealanders’ sensitive card data is protected from financial crime,” said Wiggins.

Wiggins added that ensuring EFTPOS devices operate with the latest standards helps keep the risk of card fraud low.

“It’s encouraging to hear from banks and terminal vendors who have been directly communicating the changes to merchants that the vast majority have replaced the

older devices already.”

There are just over two months to go until the older 3.x models become redundant. From the end of June, this hardware will be switched off and unable to be used to

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process transactions.

“We strongly advise any merchants still using 3.x terminals, or who are unsure, to speak with their terminal provider as soon as possible.” n