SupermarketNews Magazine | July 2024

Auckland Food Show (see page 10)

the crucial role of food shows in business growth

Attendance at food shows, whether consumer-focused or trade-oriented, is vital for anyone in the food and beverage industry. These events offer unparalleled opportunities to network, explore new trends, and discover innovative products. Recognising their importance, we have partnered with several prestigious international food exhibitions over the last five decades, most recently Japan's Food Export Fair in June and Food Expo PRO coming up in August. One notable initiative for us is the Peter Mitchell Memorial Scholarship, which has been a driver of engagement with international exhibitions. Next month, our editor, Caitlan Mitchell is heading up to Food Expo PRO escorting eight New Zealand companies on the trip to gain valuable insights and explore new product innovations and buying opportunities.

Building relationships and networking is more crucial than ever in today's more interconnected world. Our local FMCG industry continues to evolve, with borders becoming less rigid and international

opportunities more fruitful. Given the current supermarket duopoly in New Zealand, brand owners are increasingly looking beyond our shores to grow and thrive.

Participating in international food shows is a strategic move for brands to stay ahead of the curve, foster international relationships, and drive their growth in new and exciting markets. These shows serve as a platform to connect with global partners and customers, opening doors to new opportunities.

In this issue we look at the Food Show in Auckland, taking a look at product innovation and what to watch.

Another Go for Tindall at Grocery?

An Australian private equity firm has made a bid for up to $590 million for The Warehouse retail group. The bid is supported by The Warehouse group's founder, Sir Stephen Tindall, and interests associated with him, which control close to half the group's shares. They supported the bid but wanted to remain invested in the new company.

The company announced that a fund run by Adamantem Capital had made an unsolicited, non-binding, indicative offer to take over The Warehouse Group at $1.50 to $1.70 a share, compared to The Warehouse's latest closing price of $1.45.

"Sir Stephen Tindall, The Tindall Foundation, and trustees of certain trusts

associated with Sir Stephen Tindall support the proposal and will remain invested in the company through reinvesting a portion of their consideration in the acquirer of the company," the board said in a statement to the NZX.

The takeover proposal emerged amid media speculation that Tindall wanted to make The Warehouse a significant player in the grocery market. This is not Tindall's first shot at grocery, and First Retail Group managing director Chris Wilkinson said that a takeover with Tindall at the helm could help restore the fortunes of the once-dominant retail chain.

Wilkinson noted that private equity firms are experienced in streamlining businesses and that combining this with Tindall's values and understanding of New Zealand could be an "ideal combination."

The Warehouse board has begun restructuring the company around its three core brands: the Red Sheds, Warehouse Stationery, and the Noel Leeming appliance and electronics chain.

The company has also faced challenges this year, including the abrupt departure of its chief executive and the sale of its sporting goods chain Torpedo7 for $1.

Grocery pundits will watch progress closely on this one. n

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

Industry Updates

and Events

and Law Reform

Tania Walters | Publisher

UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

McAlpine Hussmann Limited is thrilled to announce their recent accolade: winners of the #ARBS Industry Award for Product Excellence for their P Series Refrigeration Merchandisers.

The P Series stands as a testament to innovation and sustainability, providing unparalleled advances in energy savings, showcasing the combined expertise of the Panasonic and Hussmann design teams. This product represents a harmonious integration of advanced technology, ecofriendly design, and digital sophistication,

while embracing the triple bottom line principles of People, Planet, and Performance.

Driven by rigorous research and development, the P Series' performance claims are backed by comprehensive testing, standards compliance, and valuable customer feedback. This meticulous approach not only validates the efficiency and effectiveness of the P Series but also underscores its alignment with sustainable development goals.

Recognition from ARBS Exhibitions Ltd and the HVAC&R industry highlights

McAlpine Hussmann Limited's unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. With the capability and expertise to deliver total refrigeration and mechanical ventilation solutions, McAlpine Hussmann Limited invites you to speak with our Commercial Team today to learn how they can support your next project. n

www.mcalpinehussmann.co.nz

DELAYS WILL PROLONG STAGNATION

The New Zealand economy faces continued difficult conditions throughout the next 12 months according to Infometrics’ latest forecasts, with increased caution from businesses around investment and hiring in response to weakening demand.

GRAHAM NORTON PRESENTS NZ VINTAGE

Television personality and winemaker, Graham Norton has met with his New Zealand counterpart, Invivo, to launch the 2024 vintage.

MASTHEAD LIMITED ACQUIRE WEDDERSPOON ORGANIC GROUP

Masthead Limited, a Christchurch-based investment firm, has acquired Wedderspoon Organic Group, a leading brand of Manuka honey.

NEW WORLD HAVELOCK NORTH OPENS

Foodstuffs North Island has opened its new New World Havelock North supermarket, providing a modern and ‘greener’ shopping experience for the thriving Hawke’s Bay town.

Ultra Keto Tortillas Ultra Keto Tortillas

SAINSBURY'S INVESTS IN AI VETERINARY TECHNOLOGY

Sainsbury’s has become the first retailer in the world to invest in new AI veterinary technology to measure and enhance positive animal welfare on dairy farms, revolutionising the approach to cattle care.

With the growing popularity of budgeting challenges on social media, Brits have become increasingly conscious of how much they spend.

GROWING DEMAND FOR FONTERRA IN JAPAN

Fonterra recently joined a business delegation from New Zealand to visit Japan, one of its primary export destinations for high-quality dairy ingredients.

USA | In the last several years, Walmart customers have loved the strength of its delivery business and the innovative aisles in-store and online.

M&S GROWS & RENEWS CONVENIENCE STORES

UK | M&S recently celebrated the reopening of its Liverpool Street Station Mezzanine store, the first-ever M&S convenience store at a mainline railway station, which has been renewed in partnership with SSP.

TESCO INTRODUCES FEED SUPPLEMENT TO METHANE EMISSIONS

Tesco has partnered with Grosvenor Farms, one of its essential UK dairy farms, to trial a methane-reducing feed supplement for dairy cows.

NEW WHOLE FOODS MARKET AT HUNTINGTON STATION

HUNTINGTON STATION, N.Y. | Whole Foods Market has opened its new 43,916-square-foot store at Huntington Station, New York.

STOP & SHOP PLANS TO SHUT UNDERPERFORMING STORES

USA | Ahold Delhaize’s U.S. brand, Stop & Shop, has announced the next steps in its plans to position the company for growth.

SAUDI ARABIA'S PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT PROJECT

MVW Lechtenberg Projektentwicklungs—und Beteiligungsgesellschaft GmbH has collaborated with Empower to launch a transformative plastic waste management project in Saudi Arabia. To enhance the project's capabilities and reach, MVW Lechtenberg & Partner Middle East and SIRC have founded a joint venture.

Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), the executive arm of the Saudi government for waste management, has been a critical player in the initiative and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in the Kingdom.

The project's ambitious goal has been to process approximately three million tonnes of municipal solid waste annually, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. It has been anticipated to reduce approximately 1,791,300 tonnes per year when fully implemented.

Empower’s blockchain technology, a cornerstone of the project, has ensured the transparent tracking and efficient

management of plastic waste from collection to recycling and RDF conversion. This system will provide real-time monitoring of waste management activities, delivering valuable data for stakeholders and instilling confidence in the project's operations.

A key innovation in this project has been the integration of Plastic Credits and RDF systems. Plastic Credits incentivise responsible waste disposal by providing financial rewards for verified plastic waste collection and recycling activities. These credits can be traded or sold to entities aiming to neutralise their plastic footprints or comply with environmental regulations, fostering a more circular economy.

Plastic Credits will help close the financial

gap between the cost of collecting and processing plastic waste and the market price for recyclable materials and RDF. By providing a sustainable revenue stream, these credits will ensure the long-term financial viability of this waste management initiative, making it more attractive to investors and stakeholders.

Verifying these credits will be based on the GPx traceability standard developed by GPN Corporation as a member of the International Green Purchasing Network (IGPN). This standard ensures high transparency, traceability, and accountability levels, which are crucial for building trust and securing participation from various stakeholders. n

15-17/8/2024

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre 8-24/8/2024

Click2Match (Online)

Asia’s Key Trade Event for F&B

HKTDC Food Expo PRO provides a one-stop business platform for F&B industry buyers to satisfy their appetites for opportunities and building business connections. The 2023 edition gathered more than 20,100 buyers from 69 countries and regions*

*Include Food Expo PRO & Tea Fair

Highly Sought-after Categories

Register now for FREE admission badge!

The Food Show in Auckland is billed as the ultimate destination for food lovers, bringing together an array of culinary delights, innovative products, and the latest trends in the food and beverage industry. This year's event showcases the best that local and international exhibitors

at Auckland Food Show

have to offer. From gourmet and artisan treats to cutting-edge gadgets and health-conscious there's something to interest Take a look at what's on offer, showcase the highlights and products at this year's Food flavour meets innovation.

Auckland Show

gourmet delicacies cutting-edge kitchen health-conscious options, interest all buyers. offer, as we and must-see Food Show, where

COME TRY OUR NEW KICK-ASS ENCHILADA BAKES. IT'S A FROZEN FIESTA!

We know you have great taste

So does our

Butter

Crafted from pure fresh cream, our butter promises a rich, smooth and velvety flavour that’s simply unmatched.

Our journey commenced more than a decade ago with the dream of creating a luxurious New Zealand made butter that stands apart.

Today, we are proud to have a range of butters that use only top-tier ingredients to give you a flavour experience that’s truly delectable!

Find us at Stall D22 at the Auckland Food Show to sample some of what sets us apart from the rest.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT lewisroadcreamery.co.nz

at

Auckland Food Show

GET YOUR TASTEBUDS ACTIVATED

Alliance Trading

The Alliance Trading stand featuring Be Right Coconut Rolls, Well Naturally sugar free chocolate, and BC Protein bars is not to be missed at this year’s Auckland food show!

Be Right coconut rolls are a delectable snack, or treat, which is vegan and gluten free. They are crunchy, versatile, and extremely tasty.

Well Naturally sugar free chocolate is a guilt-free treat. We will have range of milk and dark flavour preferences available to try. The Well Naturally range will dazzle you with its likeness to ‘real’ chocolate.

The BC Protein bars are Australia’s number one selling protein bar, they are the perfect on the go nutrient dense snack. With three delightful flavour options.

The Alliance Trading stand will be a hive of activity with sampling that will get your taste buds activated, with sugar free, gluten free, and organic goodies.

As well as the jaw dropping show specials visitors will also receive a Be Right reusable carry bag, to carry all your food show purchases. Come find us at stand G32!

Sunny Hill Kumara Fries and Wedges

lightly battered, partially fried, and snap frozen to lock in the natural goodness. They can be baked, air-fried, or deep-fried, delivering superb texture and taste.

WWW.SUNNYHILL.CO.NZ

MACY AND TAILOR TO LAUNCH 6 NEW SKUS

Macy and Tailor

You probably know Macy and Tailor for their irresistible thin and crispy Pressed Pretzels that have been a favourite among Kiwis for years. At Macy and Tailor, they're all about crafting snacks that surprise and delight, because life's too short for ordinary. Get ready for a treat at the 2024 Food Show! Macy will be unveiling some thrilling new products, and attendees will have the exclusive chance to taste them before they hit the shelves in September. Don't miss out on this delicious sneak peek!

Stay updated with Macy and Tailor

Stay updated with Macy and Tailor

tackling supply chain challenges

winning in summer: optimising supply

chains

Summer seems a long way off, as the weather is reminding us of the force of nature it can be, with the devastation we’ve seen wreaked on parts of our country. Our thoughts are with those affected by the recent weather events, as they start yet another rebuild.

While we have a number of cooler months to go, with the passing of the winter solstice and appearance of Matariki it is a time to look ahead and celebrate the coming year. This year we celebrated the Māori proverb Matariki whetū heri kai meaning Matariki, the bringer of food. This proverb heralds sustenance and abundance of the harvest, resonating with our industry and members, as we start turning our minds to planning of the months ahead.

by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail

Benjamin Franklin said that by failing to prepare you are preparing to fail, and it’s as relevant as ever. It has been highlighted to me by retailers regularly that gaps on shelves over summer is a frustrating and avoidable lost opportunity for both retailers and suppliers alike and importantly leaves consumers with less choice at a critical time of year.

It’s a double whammy, with heightened consumer demand for all the summer and festive treats and trimmings and the annual Christmas holiday period for this industry

leaving less staff at a high-intensity time –this all adds up to a significant operational challenge.

Preparation for this pivotal time needs to begin early and soon. At the forefront of this preparation is the 'Winning in Summer, Winning Together’ programme, which has been jointly developed over the years by the Foodstuffs North Island, Foodstuffs South Island, and Woolworths NZ, through the New Zealand Food & Grocery Council’s Supply Chain Working Group. Now in its sixth year, this initiative represents a truly collaborative effort.

winning in summer, winning together

The programme includes the NZFGC supplier toolkit along with performance support and monitoring input from the retailers. The goal? By leveraging past performance data, we can empower the industry to navigate the complexities of the peak season leading to more products on shelves for our consumers, more of the time.

what we learnt from last summer 2023/24

Last year’s data provided us with valuable insights, and we saw solid improvement, but we can still do better. We are not yet back to pre-Covid performance levels - that is the aim for this year.

Despite the challenges posed by persistent shipping delays, we saw many suppliers improve their readiness to manage this

challenge by swiftly implementing mitigation strategies, such as increasing lead times and stock on hand to protect service. Production constraints that result from low staffing levels remain a real challenge, underlining the need for excellent planning in advance for this critical time.

Our long-term analysis reveals consistent fluctuations across various weeks and years. The period begins in mid-November and through to early December we see promising results. However, as the season progresses towards late December and January, supply patterns exhibit much greater variability, so suppliers need to be alert and initiate mitigation plans.

get a copy of the supplier toolkit

Looking ahead to the 2024/25 summer, the toolkit is being updated, and we will be launching a joint campaign tailored to suppliers, with webinars hosted with the retailers, aimed at promoting best practice and proactive planning strategies. Planning, data-driven insights, and ongoing dialogue all contribute to a more resilient supply chain. The success of this summer hinges on our ability to plan early and react quickly. As we look forward to the warmer, longer days of summer ahead, together, we can ensure that 'Winning in Summer, Winning Together’ becomes more than just a programme, but confirmation of our industry's ability to collaborate and get it right. n

Raewyn Bleakley

Chief Executive, New Zealand Food & Grocery Council

ANNA FERGUSON NEW WORLD ONEKAWA

Anna Ferguson has been a baker at New World Onekawa for eight years now. However, her passion for baking began long before when she and her mother owned a confectionery and cake cafe in the Hawkes Bay region called Humbugs.

“We had this for 13 years. My mum would create all the cakes and baked treats, and I would run the cafe side,” said Ferguson.

“I originally applied for a deli role at New World Onekawa, but I was asked to cover maternity leave in the bakery all those years ago, and I’ve never looked back.”

She added that she lived and breathed baking and that her typical day usually consisted of baking all morning at New World, followed by making shortbread once she got home, which is also one of her

two signature baked goods, the other being her special brownies.

“I guess I’m just really passionate about it.”

Ferguson's most rewarding part of her job has been seeing customers' reactions when they come into the bakery and take home the baked goods she has made. Her favourite is the Cookie Monster cupcake, which children enjoy.

Other popular items at the bakery include the Cookie S’mores and donuts.

“Donuts are a huge hit now - you can have so much fun with them.”

She has also observed that more customers have begun demanding healthier

bakery products that retain the original taste in recent years.

Ferguson enjoys the walking tracks around Hawkes Bay when she is not baking and would love to start Humbugs again.

“That’s always been a huge goal of mine. For now, I will keep baking, learn as much as possible, and have heaps of fun along the way.”

For those beginning their baking journey, Ferguson said the key was being passionate about it.

“Find a job you enjoy, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life”. 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

storespotlightlocal

local and organic

Organics Out West is a family-owned business specialising in organic, local and eco-friendly products.

Located in west Auckland, Organics Out West was bought two years ago by Dave Ibbs, who wanted to ensure his daily efforts contributed to something positive. Ibbs previously had a varied background across several industries, including retail, importing and exporting, and multi-site management.

Organics Out West exists to ensure people have a choice and to encourage managing health through natural means. Ibbs said that there is a very open door policy and a great vibe due to the team of engaging people who work there. A key focus has been to turn the store into a legendary figure within the community, which has happened due to the unique and interesting exchanges with customers on a daily basis.

He said that every customer has a personal experience in the store, which has been designed the ‘old-fashioned’ way through conversation and genuine care for all customers.

“We want the best for everyone who

walks through the door. We help them with their shopping, help people to their cars, research products when they have questions, and order things for them,” said Ibbs.

“Due to the nature of the store and the vibe here, we find customers feel relaxed enough to open up and share a lot with us. This makes us feel privileged that we have created a space where customers feel comfortable enough to do this. The human element is key in everything we do, and people really appreciate this due to dwindling contact available in many environments.”

The store has been described as an incredibly warm environment. Ibbs said that the team was very proud of this and that a culture has been built on trust and mutual respect. Customers get a very personalised experience in-store, and staff make sure that each customer has the best service.

As a vast amount of produce and stock is sourced from as many New Zealandbased companies as possible. Organics Out West supports many local producers and

Due to the nature of the store and the vibe here, we find customers feel relaxed enough to open up and share a lot with us. This makes us feel privileged that we have created a space where customers feel comfortable enough to do this.

suppliers, especially in the fresh department, through multiple growers. Fresh food featured in-store has often been picked several hours before arriving on the shelf and has only travelled a few kilometres.

Ibbs said he was most proud of his team, as almost every review the store has received mentioned the human element. His greatest achievement to date has been the ability to stay open in the current economic climate.

“Very few businesses are vouching

for natural, sustainable, ethical, and environmentally friendly products and business practices beyond lip service –In reality, there’s much easier and more profitable things to sell. We’re up against the odds.”

Recycling has been another key priority for Organics Out West, which prompted an in-store programme for customers to refill products with reusable containers.

Compostable gloves and food wrap are

used for preparing orders, and all hygiene products are sustainable bamboo products. All food sold in-store is organic and local and is produced sustainably by default.

Ibbs said the store hasn’t actively supported companies it believes are unethical, to the point of removing brands if needed. He said the goal has been for consumers’ money to go to good people, as it's important to be able to defend the decision against future generations. n

The local beverage market has expanded, especially within the low—to no-sugar functional beverages category, which has experienced remarkable growth. A significant shift has been made towards adopting drinks such as bobby as substitutes for high-sugar beverages.

This is consistent with the latest data from IBIS World, which indicated a projected CAGR of 9.8 percent from FY21 to FY24 and a current market size of AUD 597.6 million for FY24. It has been anticipated that the category will surpass AUD 1 billion by FY27, reflecting a growing health consciousness among consumers.

Sustainability has been another focal point for brands like bobby, mainly in their sourcing practices and packaging.

“It’s at the core of what we do; we know how important sustainability is to our millennial and Gen Z customers. They require and push new and old brands to make better choices,” said Kristian Johannsen, founder of bobby.

“As a carbon-neutral organisation accredited through Climate Active, we are dedicated to becoming a B-Corp by FY27 to ensure accountability throughout our entire company and supply chain.”

The brand has also utilised recyclable aluminium cans and complete cardboard boxes without shrink wrap, and its transition from plastic to paper tape has underscored its commitment to sustainable packaging.

Technology has also been pivotal in its operations, mainly production and distribution. Recently, it has integrated the Unleashed platform, a cloud-based software that provides enhanced visibility and control over inventory, production, sales, and finance functions.

20 minutes with

The platform's advanced dashboard and inventory management system have enabled the beverage company to forecast stock levels accurately based on historical data and growth rates, thereby minimising strain on working capital.

“In the short time since we started, we’ve experienced many challenges in our supply chain, mainly all to do with overselling, which we try to see the silver lining in. Now, we are getting a better feel for our customers, their growth rates, and their ordering patterns. We feel as though we are getting a better handle on forecasting, raw materials on hand, etc., to increase our continuity of supply.”

Johannsen added that the competitive landscape in the F&B sector has been highly intense, with low barriers to entry enabling the continual emergence of new competitors.

“It’s part of the category, and you can’t stop it. Internally, we try to stay laserfocused on the task at hand.”

To stay focused on establishing Bobby as the preferred better-for-you soft drink across Australia and New Zealand, the team has concentrated on internal initiatives to maintain its position within this competitive landscape.

Regarding new product development, Johannsen mentioned a new sub-brand, Billy, which is set to launch in late July to early August.

“After feedback from some of our key distribution partners, we’ve decided to enter the canned water space, emphasising our commitment to sustainable packaging whilst creating a brand that resonates with the Australian community.”

Billy will launch with two SKUs, Australian Still & Sparkling water, in 500ml infinitely recyclable aluminium cans. Additionally, within bobby, the team has prepared to introduce a new flavour and has numerous innovative plans for FY25 and beyond. n

LO CAL

AVIKO WAVY BLENDS

Aviko

Aviko has added new and exciting flavour combinations in its latest wavy blend offerings. The Wavy Blends Paprika has been designed for culinary innovators. These fries come seasoned with rich paprika, and the distinctive wavy cut ensures a perfectly crispy texture, making them an ideal base for creatively loaded fries or a delectable side.

The Wavy Blends Cheezz Onion Style has also been uniquely flavoured with wavy fries tailored for trendsetting restaurants seeking to stand out. Each fry clings to its rich cheese seasoning, ensuring every bite is as luscious as the last.

Both are simple to prepare and serve, offering a versatile foundation for customisation.

FARRAH'S ULTRA KETO TORTILLAS

Farrah's

Jasmine Currie, Farrah’s Head of Marketing, said Farrah’s Low Carb Tortillas were a huge success since launching in September 2022, driving 10.9 percent of total category growth. (Circana data NZ Grocery to 12/05/24). We are so excited to bring our keto innovation to the Mexican category at a record low carbs of only 0.9g per tortilla – that’s 92% less carbs than our standard Taco Tortillas.

Farrah’s Ultra Keto Tortillas are the lowest carb tortillas on the market! They have been specially crafted to deliver exceptional taste and quality, while also being an excellent source of fibre. Perfect for tacos, Farrah’s Ultra Keto Tortillas also create even more meal occasion opportunities for those following a keto or low carb lifestyle and the extra low carbs mean more can be enjoyed at each meal.

Like Farrah’s existing Tortilla range, these Ultra Keto Tortillas are vegan-friendly, yeast and dairy-free, and proudly flame-baked in New Zealand.

DINNER-READY QUESADILLA KIT

Old El Paso

The Old El Paso Quesadilla Kit is perfect for making crispy and cheesy quesadillas at home. Each quesadilla kit includes 8 Old El Paso Soft & Flexible Tortillas, 1 Old El Paso Quesadilla Spice Mix and 1 Old El Paso Guacamole Spice Mix. Simply add your favourite fillings and serve with guacamole for a tasty weeknight meal in minutes.

DARK CHOCOLATE COFFEE MARSHMALLOW FISH BITES

Queen Anne

Just like Chocolate Fish but smaller… the Queen Anne Chocolate Fish Bites 170g range has added value in the Confectionery – Gifting (Premium) sector with the Queen Anne Dark Chocolate Raspberry Marshmallow Fish Bites 170g ranked 20th and the Milk Chocolate Strawberry Marshmallow Fish Bites 170g ranked 23rd. IRI data, TKAMAT to 07.01.24 (excl. seasonal)

A Dark Chocolate Coffee Marshmallow Fish Bites variant was identified as a consumer choice. This has been added to the range to build indulgent adult purchasing. This product features real coffee for an authentic flavour profile and carries the Gluten Free benefits.

For further information contact your Alliance Marketing Representative.

PASCALL CHOC ORANGE LUMPS

Pascall

WHITTAKER'S LIMITED EDITION MACADAMIA

Whittaker's

Enjoy Whittaker's nostalgic taste with the return of its much-loved Macadamia Block. Crunchy roasted macadamias throughout the 5-Roll Refined Cocoa Creamy Milk chocolate delight the taste buds. This is a limited edition available for chocolate and macadamia lovers.

Bursting with orange flavour, Pascall’s new offering is a delightfully fruity and chewy combination of orange-flavoured lumps covered in delicious dark chocolate. These are fun treats to share with family and friends at home or on road trips. They are perfect for parties, lolly bowls, or snacks or treats anytime.

Pascall Choc Orange Lumps are made in Australia with no artificial colours with no artificial colours.

MILK CHOCOLATE PINEAPPLE MARSHMALLOW FISH BITES

Queen Anne

Launching for Christmas 2024 Seasonal Gifting is the new Queen Anne Milk Chocolate Pineapple Fish Bites 170g. This Share Pack features the quintessential Kiwi flavour (Pineapple), a favourite for generations. Not only for gifting, (who doesn’t want to receive Choc Fish), but a great addition on cheese boards, served as a dessert or on the side of your favourite cuppa.

The Queen Anne Chocolate Fish Bites 170g range is now valued at approximately $1.2 Mln in TKA (IRI Key Account data 07.01.24)

For further information contact your Alliance Marketing Representative.

LO CAL

OTIS BARISTA ONE

Otis

Otis has a new and improved Otis Barista One. It has been designed with a neutral flavour profile that’s not too sweet and oaty, creating the perfect pairing for coffee.

It has been grown by the best farmers in the world, proudly made in New Zealand.

Available at all great New World and Woolworths stores nationwide and online.

SIX BARREL SODA CO. X COMMON GOOD COFFEE

Six Barrel Soda x Common Good

Six Barrel Soda Co. has collaborated with Common Good Coffee, a local roaster, to support regions affected by extreme poverty and modern slavery.

The new limited edition Coffee & Cherry Syrup is a sustainable soda syrup made with Fairtrade and organic single-origin coffee from Ethiopia, Central Otago cherries, and a hint of vanilla.

The cherries for this syrup come from NZ Cherry Corp’s Cherry Rescue Program. This program rescues cosmetically imperfect cherries that don't meet export or local quality standards and then repurposes them for use in sustainable products.

ANTHEA'S NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Anthea

Inspired by the Greek goddess of human love, flowers and nature, the newly launched New Zealand brand Anthea offers non-alcoholic Botanic Spritz drinks when you want something grown up and tasty to drink but without the alcohol.

As the sober, curious trend continues to rise, Anthea is for those looking to cut back, be more mindful, or stop drinking altogether with its range of sophisticated beverages.

PLANT BASED COOKIE DOUGH BALLS

Frooze Balls

Frooze Balls has introduced a new cookie dough flavour. These delicious orbs of plantpowered goodness are made in clean, green New Zealand.

These plant-based delights, free from cane sugar and preservatives, offer a worry-free indulgence. Each ingredient is meticulously chosen and gently mixed, ensuring minimal processing and maximum health benefits.

INTRODUCING VENERDI'S LATEST DELIGHT

Venerdi

The wait is over, introducing Spiced Fruit Sourdough English Muffins, the most recent addition to the Venerdi Gluten Freedom family. Gluten Freedom has always been about pushing the boundaries that little bit further to create a range of breads that give free-from customers the complete freedom to enjoy food occasions - their newest addition to the range is no exception.

Gluten Freedom Spiced Fruit Sourdough English Muffins are vegan friendly and free from gluten, dairy and soy, but you wouldn’t know it and that’s the point. Unrecognisably gluten free.

LO CAL

SHAPES BARBECUE GLUTEN FREE

Arnott's

Shapes Barbecue is now available in Gluten Free with flavours. This beloved Australian savoury treat boasts a robust tomato taste with plenty of familiar herbs.

Baked in the oven instead of fried, they make a great addition to your favourite savoury snack. They have a rich tomato flavour and many herbs that we all know and love.

Oven-baked, not fried, they are perfect for the pantry.

COLA X SHERBET FIZZ CRUNCH

RJ's Fabulicious

RJ’s Fabulicious has launched a new Sherbert Fizz with added crunch. Enjoy the tingle with crunchy Sherbert Fizz wrapped in a wonderful soft cola-flavoured chew.

DUSK X ALLEN'S LOLLIES

dusk x Allen's

dusk x Allen's Lollies have collaborated to launch a home fragrance range inspired by Australia's favourite lolly brand. The range features scented candles, bath bombs, room sprays, and fragrant oils and has been inspired by some Aussie favourites Allen’s lollies like Frogs Alive, Peaches and Cream, Pineapples, and Cheekies.

TIM TAM X JATZ

Tim Tam x Jatz

Tim Tam has introduced a new flavour, sweet and salty. Initially introduced as an April Fool's joke, the Tim Tam x Jatz collaboration received an overwhelming response from consumers, who passionately requested this delightful treat to become more than just a prank.

After extensive development, the Tim Tam Research & Development team has fulfilled the desire for a Tim Tam with both the classic chocolatey indulgence and the savoury, and crispy bursts all in one bite.

This year, as Tim Tam commemorates 60 years of triumph, the Tim Tam x Jatz is just one of the many thrilling surprises in store for 2024.

WOOLWORTHS DISNEY WORLD OF WONDER COLLECTION

Woolworths

Woolworths New Zealand has announced the launch of the new ‘Disney Worlds of Wonder’ Collector Cards. Available from the 7th of August until the 22nd of September, ‘Disney Worlds of Wonder’ collectible cards span four iconic worlds and feature characters from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars, including fan favourites like Simba, Joy, Spider-Man, and Darth Vader.

ANGEL BAY SMOKY BBQ BEEF PATTIES

Angel Bay

Created in partnership with Dame Lisa Carrington, Angel Bay Smoky Barbeque Beef Patties are ones the whole family will enjoy. Smoky yet sweet, with the added pop of the occasional mustard seed. They have also added Rum and Que Blackout Rub to make this an iconic Kiwi patty. Available in all good supermarkets for a limited time only.

XXL CHIPOTLE STEAK & DOUBLE CHEESE

Big Ben

Big Ben’s new XXL Chipotle Steak & Double Cheese is no mere humble pie. With smokey chipotle, chunks of 100 percent New Zealand steak, and a double helping of cheese, this is the steak and cheese pie for the true flavour explorer.

KITKAT X PETERS DRUMSTICK

Nestlé

The new chocolate block is everything people love about a Drumstick Classic Vanilla. It boasts an indulgent double filling of creamy vanilla and delicious chocolate sauce on top of KitKat’s iconic oven-baked wafer and coated in smooth milk chocolate.

The KitKat inspired by Drumstick chocolate block is decadent with a creamy double filling and made to be enjoyed and shared all year round. It is now available at Woolworths and will be available to all other retailers at the end of July.

record kiwifruit crop tinged red & gold this year

An ideal harvest, new innovations and evolving consumer tastes have combined to deliver a recordbreaking kiwifruit crop in 2024.

Settled weather and sufficient labour supply saw New Zealand’s largest ever crop harvested in an orderly manner between March and May, with 196 million trays having now been picked and packed.

New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc. (NZKGI) CEO, Colin Bond, says this year’s crop comes in stark contrast to 2023’s meagre yield which left disappointed growers under par. Poor pollination, wind, flooding, hail and cyclones reduced the crop size and only 133 million trays were exported.

Bond attributes this year’s success to great teamwork across the supply chain to ensure great tasting kiwifruit reaches consumers. “I would like to thank the thousands of pickers, packers and countless other workers who have worked diligently to create a successful harvest for our industry. The fruits of their labour have a flow-on effect to the wider communities who also profit from our success.”

Collaborative efforts to resolve fruit quality issues look to have been successful so far, but NZKGI will continue to closely monitor the situation in the months to come.

Southern Produce Ltd General Manager New Zealand, Bevan Jelley, says consumers are embracing the new Ruby Red variety, with sales having more than tripled in 2024 compared to last year.

“Feedback from consumers has been very positive with New Zealanders enjoying the unique red flesh colour and berry taste. The fruit size profile this season was small which made them a perfect option for school lunch boxes,” Jelley explains.

“The increase in supply volume has meant retail prices in New Zealand have reduced compared to previous seasons, providing a great consumer value opportunity for more Kiwis to enjoy red kiwifruit. However, the New Zealand marketplace will need to strike a balance moving forward to ensure that as supply volumes increase, pricing is able to deliver sustainable returns back to growers.”

Gold kiwifruit continues to be the most popular choice, with the market having seen a rapid increase in consumption over the past few years. Supply of gold is up nearly 40% to 124 million TE this year as new hectares of gold plantings come on stream and New Zealand growers continue to convert orchards from green to gold to meet rising global consumer demand. The harvest of gold kiwifruit is double the volume of green kiwifruit in 2024.

“Gold and green kiwifruit each have their own fanbase among New Zealand consumers. Those who prefer gold kiwifruit often mention its sweetness as the reason for the preference, while consumers that prefer green kiwifruit love the zingy taste and

digestive benefits. Consumption of both varieties increases in the cold and flu season during the winter months, when consumers look for produce that is high in vitamin C and can help support a strong immune system.”

To maximise sales, Southern Produce Ltd advises retailers to place kiwifruit in a prominent position in store with other fast-moving fruit. “Layer fruit no more than 4-6 deep and check fruit quality frequently,” Jelley says. “Rotating the softest fruit to the front of the display increases sales of readyto-eat fruit and minimises shrinkage.”

Jelley says Ruby Red is a more delicate fruit – like a berry it needs to be handled with care. “The fruit needs to be kept cool and avoid breaks in the cool chain, 0.5˚C and high humidity are the best storage conditions. It is best to keep ambient display stock levels low and replenish them frequently to minimise the time the fruit spends out of the cool chain. Ruby Red kiwifruit softens faster than other kiwifruit, it has a shorter storage life than gold and green kiwifruit and softens to a lower firmness.”

Jelley says both gold and red kiwifruit are forecast to continue increasing in production volume next season (2025).

NZKGI says growers are now watching fruit carefully as it heads overseas to ensure quality is upheld and good prices are achieved. Despite gaining strong per tray returns over the last two years, poor yield has hurt growers financially. This, combined with increasing orchard costs, means many growers remain under the pump to keep their businesses afloat.

This season’s record production of over 196 million trays is followed by 184 million trays in 2021 and 175 million trays in 2022. Overall, New Zealand supply is forecast to increase to 208 million trays by 2028. n

www.grocerycharityball.nz

zero-waste cleaning revolution

As a student of economics and management with a focus on sustainable development and circular economy, Charlotte Greer was tired of reading case studies. To truly understand what she was studying, she began putting the theory into practice.

“Ileaned into the cleaning angle partly because I lived in a dingy, never-clean flat and partly because nearly all cleaning products made today are filled with nasty ingredients that aren’t safe for people or the planet. I wanted to change that,” said Greer.

“Sustainable living is about finding alternatives that fit into your lifestyle, not the other way around.”

Veto offers a versatile range of zero-waste, multipurpose cleaning products designed to simplify and green the home care routine. The washing powder is a laundry detergent and a dishwashing powder, providing an allin-one solution. At the same time, oxygen bleach is a natural alternative to chlorine bleach, perfect for sanitising, brightening, and deodorising various surfaces.

For those looking to reduce plastic waste, Veto’s Soap Slab is a solid detergent that replaces up to five liquid detergent bottles and is effective on pots, pans, greasy ovens, glass shower screens, and more.

The Wonder Bar is another versatile spot stain remover and solid detergent, ideal for delicate fabrics like wool and silk, while the All-Purpose Bathroom Cleaner is a natural scrub that effortlessly cleans toilets, basins, shower floors, and bathtubs.

Each product has been formulated with natural ingredients inspired by traditional recipes but updated for modern needs to eliminate plastic and harsh toxins from homes without drastic lifestyle changes.

“Being a one-woman show, my biggest challenge is balancing it all. I manufacture all the products by hand, design all the branding, manage the social accounts, answer customer questions, and so much more.”

Greer added that she would love to outsource the manufacturing of the products. Still, from her experience, the local market for eco-friendly production facilities is limited, and she has been determined to keep looking, as she wants Veto to remain made in New Zealand.

She has also been interested in marketing as it has involved educating consumers about the benefits and effectiveness of zerowaste solutions.

There has often been a misconception that natural products are less effective than their chemical counterparts. Overcoming this has required robust communication strategies and demonstrations to build trust and showcase product efficacy.

Another challenge has been the shifting consumer habits. Encouraging people to move away from single-use plastics and conventional cleaning products to sustainable options has involved promoting environmental consciousness and assuring them that the transition won’t disrupt their daily routines.

Despite these challenges, Veto has been committed to providing high-quality, ecofriendly cleaning solutions that reduce waste and protect the environment.

“At Veto, we are deeply committed to helping our customers make informed decisions about reducing waste and living sustainably. A key aspect of our approach is our vibrant social media presence, where we actively engage with our community and provide valuable educational content.”

One of the most effective ways Veto has supported its customers has been by creating unique and fun how-to videos that demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of its products in various real-life scenarios. This resulted from the frequently received questions from followers about specific cleaning challenges.

“What I particularly enjoy about our

social media engagement is the interactive element. This direct interaction helps solve individual problems and fosters community and support among our followers.”

Another significant driving force for Veto has been making sustainable living as accessible and convenient as possible for everyone.

“One of my primary ambitions has been to have Veto products available in all supermarkets across New Zealand—a work in progress.”

Greer has also been exploring offering subscription services for some products. This concept was inspired by the old-school milkman delivery style, where refills arrived at people's front doors every month.

“This provides a convenient solution for our customers, ensuring they never run out of their favourite products and reinforces our commitment to reducing waste. By using refillable containers and minimising packaging, we can further our mission of promoting sustainability.”

The recent launch of Veto’s hand and body soap has been a huge success, encouraging Greer to consider expanding zero-waste personal care options. Adding

20 minutes with

more products in this category would allow Veto to offer a comprehensive range of sustainable home and personal care solutions, helping its customers reduce waste in every aspect of their lives.

“Our goal with these initiatives is to simplify living sustainably, allowing our customers to enjoy the benefits of zero-waste products without thinking about reordering. This approach aligns with our founding principle of making sustainable living easy and accessible.”

Looking ahead, Greer is excited about the possibilities for growth and innovation and aims to continuously improve Veto’s product offerings, enhance distribution channels, and find new ways to support customers' journey towards a more sustainable lifestyle.

Through these efforts, she hopes to make a significant impact on reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility across New Zealand and beyond.

“At Veto, I want to make effective zerowaste products. They make people feel good and, ideally, the planet better. It’s when sustainable living is simple and enjoyable. Those words are key.” n

Charlotte Greer Founder & Creative Director veto.

MAKING SELECTIVE AND MINDFUL CHOICES

New Zealand brand Neat has created all-natural products that improve and enhance lives through its skincare, fragrance, supplements and lifestyle products. It all began with just two perfumes when founder Abby Packer’s mother sought a natural perfume mainly unavailable in their town.

“That's why we try to make most products available as a trial option, so people can make smarter purchasing decisions and reduce product waste when assessing product suitability,” said Packer.

“It's also one of the reasons you can buy a tester for every fragrance in our range. You cannot know if a fragrance is suitable without wearing it, so we've removed that barrier by allowing people to try them all at home in their own time.”

As a small batch manufacturer, Neat’s products are fresh and sit for the least time possible before going to the consumer to ensure long-lasting quality products. By offering trial opportunities, there has been less waste and empowered consumers to make an informed decision.

Product waste has been a huge issue, not just in the beauty industry but in all consumable industries, especially since the rise of online shopping.

“The amount of unused beauty products sitting in people's cabinets would make your eyes water.”

She also added that she did not believe in returning cosmetic products since most need to be discarded for safety reasons and that sustainability could only be achieved through conscious, selective, and mindful purchasing decisions.

With new trends in the beauty industry daily, Packer has tried to avoid playing into them since chasing trends and producing a high volume of products is not sustainable. At the same time, she has loved seeing the rise of refills for many products.

“I think the need to be environmentally wise will only increase, and that's something the beauty industry has needed for a long time; it's long overdue.”

Regarding its sustainable initiatives, Neat had paid to plant over 16,000 trees with Ecologi before deciding to change and plant trees with Trees That Count Aotearoa.

“I decided it was more beneficial to support native planting projects in our backyard before worrying about further afield.”

It has also been a proud sponsor of the Taranaki Kiwi Trust and has supported initiatives that work to regenerate local ecosystems and improve the planet for generations to come.

Neat has also aimed to reduce unnecessary waste through its internal practices. It has a cardboard shredding machine, and

all incoming cardboard is perforated and turned into packaging materials for outgoing orders. This has helped reduce waste by not creating more packaging, such as custom tissue and printed boxes.

“We use paper tape so things can be recycled easily, and all of our product labels are soft plastic recyclable. Soon, we'll be using a removable adhesive so that the labels can be more easily removed.”

The company has been constantly looking to improve the customer experience and sustainability. It has spent significant time sorting and distributing waste to the appropriate places.

“We get as many containers as possible re-used through our local junction recycling station; all spare cardboard is recycled, and only a small amount of waste ends up at the landfill.”

Packer also mentioned that her perceptions have been challenged as she has learned more through her business journey. She never set out to create a company

focused on sustainability, but once in business, she knew there was no other way.

However, this realisation came after I had already decided what packaging to use, so changing that was challenging. Additionally, with some customers wanting refill and reuse options and others wanting plastic, managing everyone’s unique needs was another challenge.

“Not everyone has the same information, which can lead to all-over perceptions. Some people think we should take bottles back, but they don't realise that we have a tiny water tank in our factory and are very water conscious—we can't wash and sterilise the bottles as we don't have the capacity here.”

At present, Packer has been working with a packaging consultant to guide her decision on the material choice for Neat’s line of refills.

“It's been a long time, but I want to get it right. There is no such thing as perfect packaging, as it all creates waste or uses energy to make but some are more suitable for recycling, which will be our focus. We can't

make perfect decisions, so we'll do our best.”

She added that engaging with someone who understood packaging materials and the New Zealand recycling system would also be beneficial. Like many others, her focus initially was on the products and not much on packaging. She considered glass environmentally friendly packaging without ever considering carbon and other emissions.

“Learning years later that glass is the least environmentally friendly option when you look at the whole-of-life cycle for glass was quite confronting.”

She also said that most small businesses often feel the pressure of doing more, which can be overwhelming. Hence, she reminds herself that nobody is perfect and that she and Neat have been doing better than some prominent players.

“As long as we constantly take steps in the right direction, we will evolve into a company with a shallow footprint, and we can say we've done our best in our endeavours for people and the planet.” n

health&beauty

the return of paper packaging

Launching in 2016 with natural deodorants, Aotearoad /Slo Naturals’ vision was to provide Kiwi families with a fresh new way to look after their bodies, with affordable, toxin-free, vegan, cruelty-free personal care products packaged in compostable paper tubes.

“It turned out we weren’t the only ones looking for this solution, so with time, our personal care range grew, our customer base grew, and our brand appeared in stores around New Zealand, Australia and now Hong Kong and the USA.,” said Monica Budd, co-founder of Aotearoad/Slo Naturals.

Aotearoad/Slo Naturals has encouraged its customers to join a movement of mindful natural beauty lovers who seek a sustainable self-care practice and appreciate a slower, more conscious alternative to the fast-paced, consumerist side of the beauty industry.

“Think carefully curated products that work effectively, feel good, smell lovely, are made with natural, ethically sourced ingredients, and cause no harm.”

Slo Naturals is the opposite of highly commercialised beauty brands that use toxic ingredients, cheap labour, mass manufacturing, and animal testing and generate millions of tonnes of waste and pollution with short-lived trends. The company offers affordable, long-lasting personal care products created with the environment in mind.

Being 100 percent women-owned and operated, certified by WBENC and WeConnect International, all ingredients are cruelty-free, vegan, and at least 70 percent organic.

Everything has been manufactured in New Zealand in fully traceable, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certified facilities under world-leading fair workplace laws. The packaging has also been FSC Certified and Commercial Compostable Certified by TUV.

Dealing with different packaging mediums led Slo Naturals to encounter various manufacturing hurdles.

“Paper is not as sturdy as plastic, so you

have lots more initial testing and trials to get to the finished product, making sure that when you finish with our product, you can pop it in the bin or recycle it and get on with your day.”

Marketing paper packaging was also challenging because it required more education. Most tubes have a twist mechanism, unlike paper tubes, which must be pushed. An example was the lip balm, for which the company had to educate users not to twist the bottom of the tube.

“We constantly operate with sustainability and social responsibility at the forefront of all business decisions. As part of our vision for a more just, equitable and sustainable world, we pay above the living wage and strive to partner with like-minded businesses.”

The brand has also supported charities and wildlife affected by plastic waste. It donates five cents from each item sold to the Royal Albatross Society, working with them directly to fund filtered drinking water and, recently, a brand new incubator for the baby albatrosses.

In the future, Budd will be looking to develop new products to help reduce plastic waste, particularly within the haircare sector. n

NEW ZEALAND'S ORAL CARE REVOLUTION

Northland business Maxwell & McIntyre Oral Care has been dedicated to revolutionising oral care with natural, effective products prioritising health and sustainability. Its mission has been to provide high-quality, fluoride-free alternatives to conventional toothpaste and toothpowder, ensuring that customers can maintain optimal oral health without exposure to harmful chemicals and additives.

The inspiration behind Maxwell & McIntyre came from the owner, Shayna Bryers’ journey towards healthier living and a deep concern for the environmental impact of everyday products.

“Seeing the need for natural and sustainable oral care solutions, we set out to create effective and gentle products on the planet,” said Bryers.

With a product range that includes fluoride-free, natural toothpaste and toothpowder, all packaged in eco-friendly,

recyclable containers, Maxwell & McIntyre have been committed to minimising waste throughout the production process by contributing to a zero-waste lifestyle while delivering exceptional oral care.

“One of the main challenges we face is educating consumers about the benefits of switching to natural oral care products. Overcoming scepticism and ingrained habits associated with conventional products requires continuous effort,” added Bryers.

“Secondly, sourcing high-quality natural ingredients and sustainable packaging

materials can be more costly and logistically challenging. However, we are dedicated to reducing our environmental footprint as much as possible.”

In recent times, Bryers has observed a significant shift towards natural and sustainable products in the oral care category as consumers become more conscious of their products' ingredients' environmental impact and choices.

She said that as demand for natural and organic products rises, more brands will expand their offerings in this category.

This will include a broader range of natural toothpaste, mouthwashes, and other oral care products that cater to different consumer needs.

More oral care brands will also focus on direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales channels to build closer customer relationships, offer personalised products, and provide a more convenient shopping experience.

Technological innovations will continue to shape the future of oral care, and Bryers expects to see more smart devices, AI-driven oral health diagnostics, and tech-enabled solutions that provide real-time feedback and personalised recommendations.

The focus on holistic and preventive care will further drive the development of products like probiotic-based oral care products, supplements for gum health, and other innovations that promote a healthy mouth as part of a broader wellness routine. This includes regenerative oral care products, such as those that can help rebuild enamel or repair gum tissue.

Maxwell and McIntyre also engage with

local communities and participate in various local events and educational programs to promote oral health and sustainability.

These initiatives include partnering with local schools to provide educational sessions on the importance of oral hygiene and sustainable living.

“Our partnership with Repurpose Global is very important for Maxwell and McIntyre customers. Our products support the recovery of nature-bound plastic, aligning purchases with immediate environmental action through rePurpose Global’s Plastic Recovery Pledge, of which Maxwell and McIntyre are pledging to recover over 3600 kg of plastic.”

Bryers mentioned that developing markets, including India, Indonesia, Kenya, and Columbia, have been some of the most affected by plastic pollution, and they need help. Thousands of innovative waste management solutions worldwide tackle the plastic epidemic, yet they need more funding to scale their impact.

Through rePurpose Global, Maxwell & McIntyre has chosen to fund Project Pavitra

Parvat in Uttarakhand, India. Protecting the foothills of the Himalayas from plastic pollution, Pavitra Parvat has catalysed the collection and ethical processing of lowvalue, soft plastic that would have otherwise been dumped in landfills or polluted the Himalayan ecosystem.

It has also become the first oral care brand in New Zealand to recover nature-bound plastic with rePurpose Global.

“At Maxwell & McIntyre, we constantly strive to improve and innovate, and we look forward to continuing to lead the way in natural, sustainable oral care.”

Bryers advised that brands should prioritise using recyclable or compostable materials in their packaging design and aim to minimise the amount of packaging used.

“It's essential to balance sustainability with functionality, ensuring that the packaging protects the product effectively while being easy to recycle or repurpose. Transparency about packaging materials and disposal instructions can help consumers make better choices.” n

JAMIEE LUPTON LAUNCHES CHâLON PARIS

MONDAY Haircare's team has introduced the debut of Châlon Paris, created by a top Parisian perfumer. Châlon Paris is an economical hand and body care line with delightful scents and stylish packaging designed to elevate any modern environment.

Each of Châlon’s unique, luxurious fragrances has been carefully crafted to linger long after application. This patented longlasting fragrance technology releases double the scent molecules, providing an immersive fragrance experience.

Châlon's hand and body care products are enriched with Hyaluronic Acid to soothe, hydrate, and enhance the skin's moisture barrier. They are also combined with pure essential oils for proven mood-boosting advantages.

The range includes scents like rose and

sandalwood, which present a sophisticated, rich, floral, and subtly sweet fragrance. Lavender and chamomile offer a sweet and herbaceous calming blend, while mandarin and basil create a fresh citrus burst grounded by herbal, green accords.

Founder Jaimee Lupton has tapped into a significant new trend in beautyincorporating skincare ingredients into body, hair, and cosmetic products. Châlon Paris leads the mass market in this movement. Traditionally, beauty products have been developed and marketed by large corporations, leading to barriers in terms of

price and availability for customers. Châlon Paris follows in MONDAY’s footsteps to redefine this sector with a line of body care products designed to be within reach of a broader audience while maintaining prestigious brand values.

Châlon Paris is a brand approved by Leaping Bunny, featuring fully recyclable bottles and pumps made with 20 percent post-consumer recycled plastic. Along with being cruelty-free, all products are free from parabens and phthalates and are dermatologically tested, pH balanced, and suitable for all skin types. n

wastemanagementcleaning

say no to messy plastic refills

New Zealand-based startup Dishpod was founded by two families with a shared love for the planet and a desire to keep their busy households sparkling clean. The mission has been to reduce single-use plastic waste and prevent harmful chemicals from entering waterways without compromising the effectiveness of the product.

“We created the Dishpod and its concentrated detergent Refill Bar to offer a practical and eco-friendly dishwashing solution. The Dishpod system is simple and entirely innovative,” said Carly Low, co-founder of Dishpod.

Dishpod works by activating solid surfactants through the flow of running water. Customers use the Dishpod by loading the solid Refill Bar into the patented Dishpod dispenser and holding thd pod under the flow of a warm tap.

The old-school soap shaker initially inspired the Dishpod system. As a soapmaker herself, Low knew classic soap is a zero-waste option that, while an excellent

choice for sustainability, just isn't as effective in the kitchen as traditional liquid dishwashing. So Low and her husband Regan, along with co-founders Amber and Eugene Fayerberg, set to work to create This led to creating a solid detergent to optimise both efficacy and environmental impact.

“No plastic bottles. No messy refills. Just clean dishes and a clean planet.”

Dishpod’s product line has focused on its signature and innovative low-waste solutions for dishwashing, consisting of two principal products. The Dishpod Detergent Dispenser has been made in New Zealand with 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic and is also recyclable at the end of its life.

At the same time, the Concentrated Detergent Refill Bar is a palm-free, plant-

based surfactant scented with lemongrass essential oil. These bars are as effective as any sustainably branded liquid dishwashing while cutting out the single-use plastic bottle and the heavy carbon footprint that comes with shipping a product made up almost entirely of water.

Developing products that balance efficacy, affordability, and environmental impact presented challenges, particularly in sourcing sustainable materials that performed well. Marketing these products has also involved educating consumers about the environmental and practical benefits of switching to zero-waste alternatives.

“Although the soap shaker of old inspired the Dishpod, it is a brand new

concept, so educating customers on why it’s different and more effective than those old soap shakers and how to use it can be a challenge.”

However, Low said she had observed a growing consumer interest in sustainability, driving demand for products like Dishpod, noting a rising trend of soap bars in personal care and shampoo products.

She also anticipated that more homecare and cleaning product companies would see the opportunity to provide a zero-waste

alternative by switching to solid bars and further innovations in biodegradable and compostable materials (especially biosurfactants). She expected the market to evolve with increased regulatory support for sustainable practices.

Another challenge has been sourcing local plastics, especially post-consumer plastics.

“There isn’t robust infrastructure in New Zealand to affordably source locally, but once post-consumer plastics become more of a commodity, interest from all industries

will increase, thus driving costs down and increasing availability for production,” said co-founder Eugene Fayerberg.

Even though Dishpod only launched in May 2024, the team has already begun to develop a plan for community engagement by providing detailed information about the environmental impact of their choices and practical tips for living sustainably through educational initiatives and restoration projects.

A core tenet of the Dishpod mission has been committing two percent of its total revenue to be environmental, specifically waterway restoration projects, with plans for the first project to take place on the Tutukaka Coast, where the idea of the Dishpod was conceived.

“We plan to expand our product range and explore partnerships with other ecoconscious brands. We are always looking to improve the type of materials we use to manufacture the Dishpod and our Refill bars and are open to collaboration.”

Dishpod has also set its sights on becoming B Corp certified and will focus on expanding its reach and impact.

“Humans have made a mess with singleuse plastic. Knowing that a bottle of liquid dishwashing can contain up to 90 percent water says it all. We’ve got to be more innovative to be better.” n

wastemanagementcleaning

RESOLV THE UNCLEAN CLEANING CATEGORY

When you dive deeper into the cleaning category, the truth is it’s not so clean. The category has been cluttered with plastic and carbon emissions, with only nine percent of all plastic being recycled, leaving behind staggering amounts of plastic packaging.

Most ready-to-use cleaning products have been made of up to 90 percent water, meaning they are energy-intensive when shipped and contribute unnecessary carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

The team at Resolv quickly realised that this category needed a shakeup and offered simple solutions to everyday products in a concentrated form.

“We’re simply asking our consumers to dilute at home. The Resolv brand delivers less waste, less carbon, and less ugly,” said Renee Price, product manager at Resolv.

“In the few short years the Resolv brand has been around, we have saved hundreds of thousands of plastic bottles from landfills by consumers choosing our products.”

Reducing plastic waste was one of the

brand's top priorities, as well as delivering an incredibly effective solution. Its reusable bottles have been made in New Zealand, reducing plastic waste. All packaging is also card packaging and can be easily recycled.

“We spend a lot of time in our products' design and testing phase, ensuring they look beautiful, are effective, and perform to a high standard. We offer effective everyday solutions that reduce plastic waste, save space, and make your home look beautiful.”

Packaging design has been challenging for Resolv, as its concept revolved around ‘Less Waste, Less Carbon, and Less Ugly.’ To fit that ethos, all Resolv products needed to be small and packaged in recyclable materials while still striking enough to be seen on the shelf against the big players.

The Resolv Dissolvable Laundry Sheets are

This is an exciting development and a formula we have worked on for quite some time. We're here to deliver effective solutions that work and reduce plastic waste; this has always been our goal, and will continue to pursue it.

pre-measured, water-soluble, concentrated laundry detergents to add to the washing machine drum in a compressed sheet form. They are convenient and easy to use since there is no need to measure detergent or deal with messy liquid or powder.

The Resolv Surface Cleaner pod range includes kitchen, all-purpose, bathroom, and window cleaners. The pods are dropped into a spray bottle, and 750ml of warm water is added to dissolve them.

Changing the cleaning category has been another challenge since it required changing consumer behaviour. Resolv has taken consumers on the journey by introducing new products to the market. The cleaning and laundry categories have been quite traditional and brand-led, making it sometimes difficult for consumers to switch to a new concept. However, the brand has been seeing increasing demand for its products.

“Our in-house social media team works incredibly hard to educate our customers and potential customers about our products and how they work.”

Price mentioned that the refill and concentrate concept could be applied to more than the cleaning category in the future, as Resolv plans to lead this concept into different spaces, such as its recently launched Resolv Dishwash Liquid bottles and concentrated Dishwash Liquid Pods.

“This is an exciting development and a formula we have worked on for quite some time. We’re here to deliver effective solutions that work and reduce plastic waste; this has always been our goal, and we will continue to pursue it.” n

Renee Price Product Manager Resolv

wastemanagementpackaging

rethink with rethink

As a wholesaler of premium, certified organic cotton bags, Rethink has made it practical and convenient for people to integrate sustainable choices into their daily lives and reduce the negative impact single-use products wreak on the environment.

“After deciding to stop using single-use packaging, I looked for a more practical and convenient option than what supermarkets provided,” said Lisa Cohen-Smith, founder of Rethink.

Rethink was founded in 2008 after recognising the opportunity to offer sustainable packaging explicitly dedicated to fresh produce. It was the global trailblazer in popularising reusable bags for fruit and vegetable shopping, distributing them through supermarkets.

Although its product range has expanded over the years, Rethink's core product has remained "Reusable Fresh Produce Bags," primarily sold through supermarkets nationwide.

“In 2008, promoting Rethink Reusable Fresh Produce Bags posed a challenge due to the unfamiliarity of a dedicated bag for fresh produce shopping. Fortuitously, Rob McGregor, the former owner of New World Victoria Park, heard my pitch to the store manager and immediately recognised the quality and value of the product.”

He took the initiative to facilitate communications between Foodstuffs and clarified the purpose of the bags, specifically focussing on how to deduct the weight of the bags at check-out.

Mike Sammons, Head of Sustainability at Foodstuffs NZ, recognised the value and opportunities with Rethink bags and offered great advice to include an image of fruits and vegetables on their labels to help clarify the intended use of the bags.

They were renamed "Reusable Fresh Produce Bags," featuring images of produce to emphasise their intended use.

“Surprisingly, even my relatives misunderstood the concept, mistaking the bags for general reusable shopping bags instead of ones specifically for fresh produce.”

These produce bags have been crafted with cotton netting for visibility and a drawstring to secure fruits and vegetables. Like all other items, these Certified Organic bags are eco-friendly, made from premium unbleached Indian cotton, and completely biodegradable.

When Rethink was founded, produce bags were tared at checkout, allowing customers to pay solely for their produce and not the extra weight of the bag. However, when

supermarkets updated their software, this feature was no longer available, rendering the bags non-compliant with weights and measures regulations.

To address this issue, some stores implemented a solution by providing small containers filled with dried goods that matched the weight of the bags for the tare-weight deduction or using lightweight, reusable nylon bags to address the concern of the tare weight.

However, current feedback has indicated that these inexpensive, lightweight options are perceived as greenwashing due to the lack of sustainable disposal methods and their limited durability. Consequently, stores have returned to Rethink for its environmentally pure solutions.

“We are gradually introducing bags with specific barcode labels for scanning and deducting the tare weight. We aim to boost sales and encourage Foodstuffs South Island

to implement this feature across all their stores.”

“We hope supermarkets will consider reintroducing tare weight deductions at the checkout. This would provide customers with a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to eliminate single-use options like paper bags.”

Another challenge was the significant impact of COVID-19 on Rethink. As supermarkets were its primary retailers, selling through them during the pandemic was hard as they faced difficulties stocking food items.

“Our String Bags evoke nostalgia because they are just like Nana’s. These bags are popular across all age groups and are available with long or short handles. They are often called Mary Poppins bags because they can expand to hold up to 15 kg.”

Rethink Bulk Bin Bags made it simple to avoid single-use plastics and transport loose whole foods like beans, trail mix, and rice. Ideal for solo shoppers and as snack bags during travel, these Bulk Bin Bags are practical for daily use.

For a touch of Kiwiana, Rethink Canvas Bags are vibrant and functional for everyday use. More durable than jute bags, they are easily refreshed with a machine wash, adding a colourful flair to daily routines.

“We are in the process of gradual recovery and aiming to prosper, especially with the increasing emphasis on returning to sustainability. Our goal is for customers to use our bags conveniently, preventing runaway onions at the checkout and keeping produce fresher for longer with our breathable cotton bags.”

Sustainability has always been a top priority at Rethink. Initially, its bags were self-contained with a simple sticky label, but in hindsight, this needed more information, especially advertising the bag's intended use.

Over time, the packaging evolved from a sticker to a lightweight wrap-around card and now even includes a cardboard box. This has allowed for versatile product display options, from hanging on a clip strip to sitting on a shelf, while also helping to deter theft.

“Despite these changes, we remain environmentally conscious by using minimal colours to reduce our environmental footprint. It should be foremost for all businesses to prioritise sustainability when designing packaging.”

Rethink also prides itself on its ongoing commitment to supporting the community through various avenues, including sponsoring school quiz nights, university sustainability initiatives, and individuals

championing environmental education and awareness.

Despite being a smaller entity, Rethink has sponsored organisations like Sir Peter Blake Marine Reserve and Our Seas Our Future.

“We were thrilled to supply thousands of Reusable Fresh Produce Bags to three city councils as part of the launch to ban plastic bags for produce in July 2023.”

The company has also used social media to spread educational content, mainly focusing on environmental causes, such as Repair Cafe, Right to Repair, Kiwi Bottle Drive, and local Resource Recoveries.

Rethink’s latest product, Cottonet has been undergoing refinement. It was designed by request for a supermarket for in-house packaging and featured large holes highlighting the product itself, making it the star rather than the packaging.

“We believe there is no other product like it than the net long bags made from wood pulp.”

The company has also partnered with the RUBY fashion label and Beam Suntory EFFEM Vodka to create stylish, customised string bags.

“We would love to collaborate with a charity like Pink Ribbon and offer a special pink string bag.” n

wastemanagementpackaging

ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

Kai Carrier is a New Zealand-based company specialising in ecofriendly and reusable food pouches and packaging solutions.

Established with a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility, the company's mission has revolved around reducing single-use plastic waste and providing practical, reusable food storage and transportation alternatives.

By creating innovative, eco-friendly packaging solutions that help reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastics, the company has provided families and individuals with practical, reusable products that promote a sustainable lifestyle.

“Kai Carrier's vision is to lead the market in sustainable packaging solutions and inspire a global movement towards zerowaste living,” said Denise Newman, Kai Carrier spokesperson.

“By offering high-quality, durable, and reusable products, Kai Carrier seeks to significantly reduce plastic pollution and promote environmental stewardship.”

The company offers a range of products for various food storage needs, including reusable food pouches, storage bags and ecofriendly accessories.

The reusable food pouches have been

designed to store purees, smoothies, and other liquid or semi-liquid foods and are particularly popular for baby food, enabling parents to conveniently prepare and store homemade meals, while the storage bags eliminate the need for disposable plastic bags.

In addition to pouches and bags, Kai Carrier has accessories such as spouts, lids, and cleaning brushes to enhance the usability and longevity of their products.

Sustainability has also been reflected in Kai Carier’s product design and corporate practices. By offering reusable alternatives, Kai Carrier has helped reduce the amount of single-use plastics in landfills and oceans.

The materials used in Kai Carrier products are also BPA-free, phthalate-free, and nontoxic, ensuring their safety for consumers and the environment.

“Although the initial cost of reusable products may be higher, consumers recognise long-term cost savings compared to continuously purchasing single-use items. As demand grows, production costs for reusable products are decreasing, making them more accessible to a broader audience.”

Kai Carrier has engaged in community outreach and educational initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and waste reduction.

The company collaborated with various organisations and has participated in events promoting eco-friendly living and environmental conservation.

“Kai Carrier is more than just a company providing reusable packaging solutions; it champions environmental sustainability.”

Through its mission and products, Kai Carrier has strived to positively impact the planet by reducing plastic waste and encouraging a shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns.

The reusable and eco-friendly products category has been shaped by trends that reflect a growing consumer shift towards sustainability, driven by environmental awareness, regulatory changes, and technological advancements.

Companies like Kai Carrier are wellpositioned to capitalise on these trends by continuing to innovate and educate, thus meeting the evolving demands of ecoconscious consumers. n

wastemanagementhome

A WASTE FREE HOME

“12.6 million tonnes of it goes into our landfills every year. And we, like many other Kiwis, were fed up with it. The problem is that so much today seems designed to be convenient and disposable,” said Shayna Stalker, founder of The Waste Free Home.

The Waste-Free Home is a New Zealand-based, family-run online homewares store that was started to tackle the huge problem of waste.

“As a family, we searched for and rigorously tested products. They needed to be beautiful, ethically and consciously made, sustainable, and easy to return to the earth once their hard-working lives were over. And what we couldn’t find, we made ourselves.”

Stalker added that if consumers took time to spend more consciously, there would be no reason to swap plastic for beautifully crafted and long-lasting products. She believed that offering sustainable alternatives would make people happily use them.

“If it isn’t beautiful, useful, and sustainable, it doesn’t go on our shelves.”

The Waste Free Home has also worked with local craftspeople and small businesses to supply woodwork, metalwork, and

ceramics, and it does not compromise its desire to sell beautiful, functional, sustainable items.

“In 2024, there will be no excuse for bad packaging. Customers don’t just expect us to do better; they demand it. And where there is a will, there is always a way.”

A considerable portion of what the company sells can never be mass-produced since there is a cap on how many items it produces in a window of time. This also means the business relies on customers to differentiate between cost and value. Another challenge it has faced is marketing.

For Stalker, slow living is not just a lifestyle but also a philosophy and choice each individual has made.

“The pursuit of slow living has evolved our offering and introduced us to an amazing community of New Zealand artisans that we find hugely energising and rewarding. We have an ever-increasing and beautiful community of local craftspeople

who supply and make for us. And that group is our lifeblood.”

This diverse range of artisans and skills includes Stalker’s father at Pete & Co., which supplies artfully reclaimed wood, smelters Ironclad Pan Co., Blacksands and Wundaire.

“We are very proud and privileged to be part of a community with these and many other talented individuals.”

With the belief that small changes make a big difference, The Waste Free Home has inspired consumers to make life easier through their blog, which shares care instructions, tips on getting the most out of food scraps, recipes for windfallen fruit, and much more to help others live a little consciously.

The company has constantly looked to expand its offering of sustainable alternatives and hopes to continue to grow the business at a sustainable rate while keeping up with Kiwis growing demand. n

wastemanagementorganisations

LOCAL SOLUTIONS AT WHAINGAROA RAGLAN

In the late 1990s, the Whaingaroa Raglan community came together over concerns about the open landfill site on Te Hutewai Rd. Local recycling collections were collectively established, the landfill closed, and Xtreme Zero Waste and the Community Recycling Services and Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) were founded.

“Folks still refer to the RRC as ‘the dump’, but over the years, the team and services have grown to include diverse services,” said Jemma Hovelmeier, Behaviour Change and Communications Lead at Xtreme Zero Waste.

These services include Kāhu’s Nest, a second-hand store that circulates home and DIY goods, and The Organics Yard, which processes local food waste into quality compost products. These food scraps have been collected alongside recyclables and landfills in the weekly curbside rubbish and recycling collection.

The team also services local garden

waste collections, skip bins, business waste collections, street bins, and rural recycling depots. Waste audits and behaviour change programmes that educate people on the waste hierarchy have also been established.

Xtreme Zero Waste has always been guided by working towards a world without waste. The Whāingaroa community zero waste programme has worked hard since the 2000s to achieve a 75 to 80 percent waste diversion from landfills.

Household kerbside food scrap collection has been running across Raglan since 2017, enabling households to separate valuable food scraps collected weekly at the kerbside. These food scraps are then composted into

quality local compost products in the hot composting unit at the RRC.

“Looking to the top of the waste hierarchy. This is where proper solutions are found. We can focus energy and resources on establishing and improving circular systems that reuse packaging and service ware, which is essential.”

Hovelmeier also provided the example of Whāingaroa Raglan, where business owners that have prioritised reusability and established container return systems, like Dreamview Creamery, supply local milk in glass containers that are distributed, collected, sterilised, re-filled, and then distributed again. n

URGING BUSINESSES TO SEEK FOOD RESCUES

KiwiHarvest is a part of the sustainability efforts of over 270 food organisations nationwide. They pick up good-quality, edible, surplus food that cannot be sold for various reasons, such as those close to its 'use by' or 'best before' dates. This is redirected from landfills into communities facing food insecurity.

“We handle many different food types, from fresh produce that needs to be 'used by' the next day right through to nonfood household products, such as cleaning products,” said Anne-Marie Friis, head of fundraising and marketing at KiwiHarvest.

“Our dedicated team of volunteers and drivers collects and delivers this good food to charities nationwide, where it is needed.”

At KiwiHarvest, the food rescue operation is not just about providing food; it's also about positively impacting our environment.

Food that decomposes in landfills releases harmful methane gases into the atmosphere.

By reducing food waste, KiwiHarvest prevents these greenhouse gas emissions and ensures the energy, petrol, water, and other resources that go into producing the food are not wasted. In the last year, KiwiHarvest's food rescue efforts prevented the release of seven million CO2-eq emissions from entering the atmosphere.

One of the organisation’s primary concerns is the safety and quality of the food it manages. This food must reach its final recipients in good condition.

“New Zealand's Good Samaritan Clause 352 provides the legal framework to do this. It states that companies can donate or give away unsold food and are protected

from liability, provided the food is safe and suitable. Our job is to get this food to where it is needed, in good condition, and we take this responsibility very seriously.”

It is estimated that 30 percent of food produced worldwide goes to waste, on farms, at factories, through the entire supply chain, and at a household level. Of the food wasted in the supply chain, around 65 percent is edible.

KiwiHarvest’s vision is for the F&B and FMCG sectors to empower businesses to reduce this waste by seeking solutions like food rescues to save and deliver more surplus food to families desperately needing warm, healthy meals. n

wastemanagementorganisations

SIMPLE ACTIONS TO REDUCE FOOD WASTE

At Love Food Hate Waste (LFHW) NZ, the primary focus has been to reduce the $3.2b worth of food Kiwis send to landfills annually, generating harmful greenhouse gases. Underpinned by research, the organisation has run insightful and fun behaviour change campaigns that raise awareness while providing practical, achievable ways to reduce food waste in the home.

“We empower Kiwis with the knowledge, skills and tools they need to save food from the bin. From meal planning and food storage tips to recipes and food waste reduction hacks, our resources help Kiwis save money and the environment,” said Juno Scott-Kelly, marketing and communications manager at LFHWNZ.

“New Zealand is actively committed to achieving SDG 12.3, which aims to halve per capita global food waste at the retail and consumer levels and reduce food losses along production and supply chains by 2030.”

The Ministry of the Environment has supported several initiatives via the Waste Minimisation Fund to reduce food waste across Aotearoa, leading to environmental, economic and social wins.

LFHWNZ received funding in 2023 to build awareness of and support households nationwide in reducing food waste. It worked with 52 councils nationwide to reach local communities by participating in campaigns and running local activities and events.

The organisation has also advocated for

various packaging design principles, such as using materials that can be easily recycled within New Zealand's recycling system and clear labelling that provides instructions on how to recycle or dispose of packaging and how to look after the product as long as possible through storage solutions.

Consumer education on the importance of reducing waste, how to care for products, and how to properly recycle them at the end of their life is essential. The team has recently developed a reusable Eat Me First Sticker to reduce household food waste. This simple solution serves as a visual reminder of what food needs to be eaten before it goes off or reaches its use date, the top two reasons for food waste in this country.

“Remembering what we need to eat is sometimes all we need to reduce food waste, and our reusable stickers do just that. By creating an Eat Me First shelf or labelling containers, everyone in the household will know precisely what needs to be eaten first so that food doesn’t end up in bins.”

Scott-Kelly also highlighted that many fantastic technological innovations have emerged in the food waste sector, such as

Food Print, which reduces food waste at cafes and restaurants by connecting people with food for a fraction of the price. The Olio application has also connected Kiwis with surplus food from neighbours or friends.

Working towards a future where no edible food is wasted in New Zealand, LFHWNZ would also love to see the F&B and FMCG sectors enhance systems to predict the demand for food better and reduce overproduction alongside redirecting surplus food to those in need rather than discarding it.

“We would also like to see more ongoing partnerships and campaigns with organisations like us to raise awareness about the impact of food waste and the simple steps people can take to reduce their food waste.”

She added that reducing food waste is one of the top and most accessible actions households can take to limit climate change, ahead of electric cars, solar panels, or better recycling. Simple actions like planning meals, storing food correctly, and using leftovers can save households up to $1,500 a year and make a real difference in the environment. n

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

TerraCycle, an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms, was formed to eliminate the idea of waste and move the world from a linear economy to a circular one.

With the core purpose of combating the global waste crisis, TerraCycle has tackled the issue from many angles, such as recycling the hard-to-recycle, integrating recycled materials into new products and transforming packaging from disposable to reusable.

“We provide comprehensive recycling and reuse solutions that seamlessly fit into everyday lives. We do this through partnerships with brands, retailers, manufacturers and government organisations to offer free and paid recycling solutions for hard-to-recycle waste in easy-to-access locations,” said JeanneVida Douglas, Head of Marketing and Communications at TerraCycle ANZ.

“Overconsumption and a throwaway culture have led to a global waste crisis. While even complex trash is technically recyclable, most materials are not profitable. As a result, waste piles up in landfills and pollutes our planet while virgin materials are extracted from the earth to create new products.”

The organisation also offers free national recycling programmes sponsored by brands, manufacturers and retailers. Some examples in New Zealand include GLAD, Finish, Fairy, NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto, Gillette, Maybelline, Schwarzkopf and Colgate, among others, to offer free recycling for everyday household packaging and products.

New Zealanders can easily access these free programs by signing up online and mailing back waste such as coffee capsules, plastic food care, beauty and cosmetics packaging, and oral healthcare to be recycled using a free shipping label.

Another innovative offering from TerraCycle has been the Zero Waste Box, a comprehensive recycling solution for all waste that is not recycled through kerbside recycling services.

Zero Waste Box is ideal for the TerraCycle community and others looking to keep waste out of landfills and incinerators. The boxes are easy to set up, and when full, they are returned to TerraCycle for recycling using the prepaid shipping label.

As with all free and paid recycling solutions, TerraCycle guarantees that all compliant waste will be recycled into raw materials that can be used to make new products.

“TerraCycle is different. We recycle the unrecyclable–items not accepted by kerbside services because we work with brands, retailers, and other stakeholders who fund the recycling process, enabling us to offer free and paid recycling solutions.”

Douglas said it boiled down to economics and that sustainability needed to become a business's commercial priority.

“This can be achieved through legislation or by consumers showing their preference in their purchasing decisions. Every time consumers choose sustainably packaged products, they message corporations that end-of-life solutions for products are essential.”

TerraCycle strictly controls the movement of materials through each part of the recycling process so that it can track and confirm where materials were sent and for what purpose. Bureau Veritas, a world leader in testing, inspection, and certification services, annually audits the collection and recycling supply chains.

The global reuse platform Loop also activates a circular economy by collaborating with brands, retailers, and manufacturers to make reuse convenient and accessible. It enables consumers to responsibly consume various products in customised, brand-specific, durable packaging that is collected, cleaned, refilled, and reused.

This approach has encouraged packaging to be treated as an asset rather than a cost of goods to be minimised, enabling new materials, features, and consumer experiences.

“Additionally, we work with retailers and supermarkets to adopt in-store recycling solutions, such as public drop-off locations for used products and packaging, right through to “Community Recycling Hubs”, which enable customers to recycle multiple waste streams.”

TerraCycle has previously worked with The Warehouse in New Zealand to offer recycling collection hubs, Carrefour and Monoprix in Europe, Aldi and Superdrug in the UK, Aeon in Japan, and Walmart in the US.

Nowadays, demand from consumers and businesses seeking “better” products designed for reuse, repair and recyclability has grown, and legislation requires producers to contribute to the costs associated with recycling the products and packaging.

“What we expect to happen and is already happening is extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation being introduced in more countries worldwide. EPR is a sustainability approach that holds manufacturers/suppliers responsible for their products' lifecycle.”

Some manufacturers have also taken voluntary responsibility for their products and packaging, known as voluntary producer responsibility (VPR), such as product stewardship schemes. Douglas said that TerraCycle was proud of its partner brands for taking voluntary action against waste by investing in recycling solutions for their hard-to-recycle products and packaging.

However, Douglas acknowledged that buying less was the only silver bullet solution to the global waste crisis.

“Recycling, upcycling, and reuse are essential, but they still leave a carbon footprint. Reducing our environmental impact is the best way to reduce our consumption. Consumers should always look for sustainably packaged items where possible, but ultimately, we need to consume less.” n

Z Energy Recognises Retailers

Auckland retailers Wayne and Melanie Kennerley have taken home the title ‘Retailer of the Year’ at Z Energy’s (Z) annual Retailer Awards, for their outstanding contribution to the company this year.

General Manager Customer at Z, Andy Baird congratulated Wayne and Melanie Kennerley.

“These awards help us recognise Z retailers that have gone above and beyond. Wayne and Melanie won Z’s Retailer of the Year Award for their ability to deliver a strong performance, while also balancing several significant infrastructure upgrades across their sites this year.”

Z has over 180 retail sites, stretching from the far North to the deep South, with 16 retailers operating clusters of these sites. Andy explains it’s not simply about providing fuel and a local shop for the area, as Z retailers and their teams seek to play an active role in their communities.

“Our retailers do a fantastic job at representing Z in the communities we operate in. They contribute to the local economy by creating employment

opportunities for locals and are focused on building relationships with our customers, community groups and other local businesses.”

Wayne said he and Melanie are thrilled to be recognised: “Winning this Award recognises the hard work our teams deliver across South Auckland day and night. We’re so proud of the site teams who passionately deliver barista coffee, an increasing range of quality hot food and convenience grocery options. Our site teams are well supported by a long serving operations and office team who through their continued focus on safety and standards are a key reason why we’ve received this award.

“Both Melanie and I love retail and we’ve been doing it for a while. Being able to see staff develop careers with us over long periods and the relationships we’ve developed in the community keep us going through the challenges, which this year included a fire, several break-ins, robberies, and the inevitable day to day challenges that retailers face. To receive the Retailer of the Year Award is an honor we don’t take lightly.”

Another two awards were presented to Z retailers this year: the Excellence in Food and Coffee Award, and the Kevin Burns Award.

Canterbury based retailers Jade and Graham Lowe, took home the Excellence in Food and Coffee Award for their fantastic efforts to lead coffee growth and sales conversions this year.

The Kevin Burns Award, named in honor of the late Z Retailer Kevin Burns, is given to the retailer that stands out for their professionalism and encompasses a wide range of focus areas such as safety, wellbeing, a commitment to their community and encouragement to their team to bring their full self to work. This year it was awarded to Clint and Sally Nel – who operate a cluster of Northland and Auckland Z sites – for their excellent commitment to their team in 2024.

“We’re immensely proud of all our retailers. While only several awards are handed out on the day, the event is an opportunity to recognise all Z retailers that live up to Z’s values and exemplify how ‘Z is for Aotearoa New Zealand’,” said Baird. n

Petstock & Everyday Rewards Announce New Partnership

AUSTRALIA | Everyday Rewards members can fetch Everyday Rewards points whenever they stock up at Petstock.

Through the programme, Everyday Rewards members will collect at least one point for every $1 spent at Petstock, in-store and online. Members can also redeem their points against purchases at Petstock.

Customers who link their Petstock Rewards and Everyday Rewards accounts can also collect 2000 Everyday Rewards points when they spend $75 or more at Petstock.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Petstock to the Everyday Rewards family as our pet speciality retailer. Through the partnership, pet owners can collect Everyday Rewards points and boost personalised offers when

shopping at Petstock,” said Hannah Ross, Managing Director of Everyday Rewards.

“They can also redeem their Everyday Rewards points on purchases at Petstock, which are perfect for pet Christmas presents or just to spoil your pet when it deserves it. Partnering with Petstock is another way Everyday Rewards is helping to deliver more value daily to our members.”

Petstock Group founders Shane and David Young were also excited about this new partnership, another way to reward petloving customers.

“Giving pet owners the chance to save more on every shop is part of our DNA. Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, so we are always looking for ways to add more value to the lives of our pet parents,” said Petstock Group CEO Shane Young.

Alongside Petstock, Everyday Rewards points can be collected when shopping at Woolworths supermarkets, Woolworths Metro, BWS, BIG W, Bupa, HealthyLife, MyDeal, MILKRUN, Everyday Market, Origin Energy and at Australia’s largest Loyalty Fuel partner network with over 1000 EG and Ampol petrol sites.

Every time an Everyday Rewards member collects 2000 points, they can choose to redeem $10 off their next shop at Woolworths, BIG W, MyDeal, BWS and now also Petstock.

Members can also convert their Everyday Rewards points to Qantas points, with 2000 points equaling 1000 Qantas points.

In December 2023, Woolworths Group acquired a 55 per cent stake in Petstock Group, which has a loyal customer base of 2.4 million pet families. n

COMCOM Considers Reduction in Card Payment Fees

The Commerce Commission has consulted on the potential to reduce costs to New Zealanders using the Mastercard and Visa payment networks, which affect nearly all consumers and businesses.

This is part of the Commission’s responsibility to promote competition and efficiency within the retail payment system, the most used financial service in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Commission Chair John Small said consumers spend approximately $95 billion annually using Mastercard and Visa in New Zealand, which has resulted in higher retail prices and surcharges of around $1 billion annually for businesses and consumers.

“We think this cost is too high, especially compared to our international

peers, and see the potential to reduce these fees by more than $250 million annually,” said Dr Small.

When someone uses a Mastercard or Visa card without inserting it in a terminal, the business receiving the payment is charged a ‘merchant service fee’.

“We see the opportunity to reduce a significant component of the merchant service fee, which should allow businesses to reduce retail prices as well as surcharges, for the benefit of their customers.”

The Commission also believes these fees are unnecessarily complex, which could increase consumers' surcharges.

“Reducing and simplifying these fees could reduce surcharges or even remove the need for surcharging altogether in some cases. This would also make it easier for consumers, the Commission and the industry to identify

where surcharges are excessive.”

Surcharges should only reflect the costs of accepting these card payments, and the Commission has been exploring changes to fees that could reduce surcharges to 0.7 percent or less.

This consultation also asked questions about other issues the Commission considered may require attention, such as a need for more innovation and pace, which may be barriers to new and more secure payment options made possible through open banking.

“Our focus is on the greatest benefit to consumers and merchants, and we see scope to both reduce fees and increase choice for the long-term benefit of New Zealand consumers and businesses.”

The Commission will inform its next steps by the 20th of August 2024. n

Tesco Commits to Biomethane Fuel

IRELAND | Tesco Ireland has taken delivery of 50 state-of-the-art biomethane fuelled trucks which will operate across its country-wide distribution network.

Tesco Ireland has taken delivery of 50 state-of-the-art biomethane-fuelled trucks which will operate across its countrywide distribution network. Biomethane, a renewable energy source produced from organic waste, offers a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

The new biomethane trucks are coming on stream as part of Tesco's comprehensive strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance the environmental sustainability of its operations.

The trucks will immediately replace 50 diesel units, cutting down tailpipe carbon emissions by up to 90 percent. The biomethane fleet will be operated by Tesco’s transport partner DHL and the trucks will be used to transport produce to stores from its distribution centres in Dublin.

“The commitment by Tesco to introduce 50 biomethane trucks into their national fleet is very welcome news. Ireland's road haulage sector makes up 20 percent of the

total road transport emissions in Ireland, so it is incumbent on companies like Tesco with their partners DHL, to play their part in helping to drive down our overall carbon emissions,” said Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Housing, Local Government & Heritage, speaking from Tesco’s Distribution Centre in Donabate.

“Our network is one of the most sophisticated distribution networks in the country. More than 1,800 journeys are made from our distribution centres every week to our 177 stores. We have worked hard with DHL to prepare for the switch from diesel to biomethane trucks, and this move to cleaner energy will reduce the carbon emissions created by this fleet considerably,” said Ger Counihan, Tesco Ireland Retail & Distribution Director, about the switch to biomethane.

The renewable fuel for the trucks will come from Irish and European anaerobic digestion plants, and the trucks will refuel at the newly opened BioCNG refuelling station operated by Flogas at nearby St Margaret’s in north Dublin.

Each truck has a range capacity of 700 kms on a full tank of biomethane gas, which

allows the Tesco business to reach any of its 177 stores and return without refuelling. Each tractor will complete an average of 15 to 20 truckloads of store deliveries across the country each week from Letterkenny to Kerry to Dublin.

“This is such an important project to demonstrate the role biomethane can play in Irish commercial transport and a significant step towards decarbonising Tesco’s fleet. Our partnership with Tesco shows what can be achieved through a shared commitment to sustainability and we’re looking forward to continuing this journey together. DHL is fundamentally decarbonising a significant proportion of the retail transport sector in Ireland, and this partnership with Tesco Ireland is a big part of that story. This project is a great example of our Green Transport Policy, guiding the transition of 30 percent of our own fleet to a green alternative by the end of 2026, an important enabler in achieving our sustainability goals,” said David O’Neill of DHL Supply Chain.

“This is a significant moment in our journey towards decarbonising our business. Transitioning to biomethane from diesel will significantly reduce our transport emissions and is an important step towards reaching our goal of net zero emissions across scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 2050,” said Andy McGregor, Tesco Ireland, Head of Sustainability. n

Flashfood Launches New Platform

TORONTO | Flashfood, the marketplace for affordable groceries, announced the launch of Flashfood for Independents, explicitly designed for independently owned grocers.

Flashfood for Independents will support local retailers by providing a flexible, efficient and easy-to-onboard solution to attract new customers, boost profits, and provide affordable fresh food in their communities while reducing food waste.

"More than 27,000 independently owned grocery stores in North America play a vital role in nourishing and sustaining their communities. But the already harsh and competitive retail climate right now is tough for independent grocers, who face unique challenges as small businesses," said Nicholas Bertram, CEO of Flashfood.

"Our goal with this launch is to offer a supporting lifeline to these businesses, many of whom solve food access challenges issues in hyper-urban or rural areas. We hope to empower these grocers with a solution that brings more shoppers in-store and returns

money to their bottom line.”

Flashfood for Independents builds on the value-add of the Flashfood platform, which is already available at more than 2,200 enterprise stores across North America.

Participating grocers have seen an average 27 percent shrink reduction, one or more additional store trips per month, and $20 in incremental monthly sales.

The new platform has offered the same value but with flexible and customisable elements that fit the needs of independent grocers who may have unique store footprints, smaller teams or ever-changing inventory.

The platform has seamlessly integrated with the operations of independent grocers, enhancing their ability to respond quickly to market demands and operational needs.

• Flashfood for Independents offers the following features and services:

• Fast, easy onboarding with no requirement for inventory data ingestion, enabling manual posting to the Flashfood Partner app on grocers’ standard devices.

• Flexible shopper pick-up models are tailored to each grocer’s store layout and footprint, and one-size-fits-all signage kits are delivered in-store.

• An automated reporting suite that provides actionable insights that are most helpful to each grocer.

• Bespoke Partner Support hub with dedicated customer service team members assigned to Flashfood's Independent Retailers.

"Independent grocers are truly at the heart of the communities they serve. A cornerstone of Main Street, these local businesses account for over $1 million in jobs across the county while also providing essential support for food banks, community groups, and more," said Greg Ferrara, President and CEO of the National Grocers Association.

"Supporting your local independent grocer helps keep tax dollars in the community while providing a hub for gathering, economic development, and most importantly, nutritious food to feed families." n

promoting good safe practices

You maybe aware of recent changes with the Forklift Industry Association that has seen it merge into the Hire Industry Association of New Zealand Inc (HIANZ).

The Management of the two associations was always conducted by the same team, the merger is more around back-end efficiencies for the association. The game-plan for the Forklift Sector is still the same.

The New Zealand Forklift Industry Sector promotes good safe practices in the use and maintenance of Forklifts in NZ. We advocate on behalf of our members for consistently high and improving standards towards design, supply, operator training, and in areas of maintenance.

One of the key priorities for HIANZ is to ensure those using hired/leased equipment – any equipment, are fully trained and competent to use said equipment. Competent operation brings safer workplaces.

The Silvercard™ Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) and Forklift Competent Operator program managed by HIANZ, for Independent Trainers Assessors to deliver to NZQA standards.

The training program is delivered across the country by some of the very best trainer/Assessors in NZ. These trainers are independent companies and offer more than just MEWP and forklift training to

their customers.

The Silvercard™ training program is focussed on the core competency of plant and equipment operation. This is not weetbix box course that attendance guarantees success. This is a course that guarantees competent operation of what is essentially a high-risk equipment, though we like to see this equipment as being the control measure for high-risk wok. Two different things and a subject for future articles.

Attendees to a Silvercard™ Competent Operator training course are provided with both theory and practical instruction before being assessed for competency.

Theory covers covering legislation, guidance, Health and Safety at Work Act requirements, site, environment, traffic, machine hazard and risk assessment, and control processes plus physics and principles of plant operation.

Practical instruction ensures the trainee develops safe, positive and careful operation of the equipment. This includes pre operational checks, startup procedures, routine maintenance and inspection requirements, basic operations of the equipment before moving onto detailed, precise and technical operations (if they

are ready to). All competencies are to the NZQA moderated theory and assessment.

Furthermore, if you are seeking to verify an operator in your business or on your site, www.silvercard.co.nz provides the opportunity to verify the competency of a Silvercard operator. Reduce the risks to your site by using this tool. Verification of the operator competency through the site gives you assurance of anything presented as being authentic.

Silvercard™ trainees are required to refresh their training on the regular basis. The course works on a three-year refreshment system. However, if you are not using a particular type of equipment regularly, you should seek further training or more regular refreshers to keep your competency current.

HIANZ is a voluntary membership association, being the peak body of the industry. With over 500 member companies across the country, our voice is large, and we have a heavily vested interest in all things plant and equipment. We advocate, educate and empower for our members to make their business successful and to help Hire and rental to be seen as the first choice for consumers.

HIANZ members are not just about excavators, MEWPs, Forklifts and power tools. HIANZ members can provide sanitation solutions for your sites, security via temporary fencing, TTM, security cameras and the like. HIANZ members also have the ability to supply temporary structures (marquees) which are very well suited for welfare facilities, temporary site cover, water ingress protection. It may also be to guarantee success at the the upcoming company Christmas function. Marquee, roasters, chairs, tables, crockery and cutlery ensure you are protected from the weather and are offering sustainable, reusable facilities and products to make your function the best yet. n

storespotlightglobal

colruyt reopens in virton

After a few weeks of renovations, the Colruyt Meilleurs Prix in Virton reopened this month. The self-service butcher's shop has been completely renovated, the bread cabinet has been modernised, and the Collect&Go collection point has been enlarged.

These changes were made to ensure a more efficient and enjoyable shopping experience. During the renovation, special attention was paid to the customer experience and the sustainability of the infrastructure.

With an optimised shelf layout and a retail area of 1,596 m², customers at Colruyt Virton will be able to shop even more pleasantly and efficiently.

“By grouping the delicatessen with the meat in the butcher’s shop, we have gained space in the fresh produce section. As a result, customers will find around 300 new products there. In the butcher’s shop, the self-service counter has been replaced by closed, transparent refrigerators emitting less CO2,” said manager Geoffrey Goosse.

“Customers can also see our butchers at work in an open workshop, which makes it easier to communicate if they have questions or specific orders.”

The Collect&Go collection point at Colruyt Virton has been renovated.

Collect&Go is Colruyt Group's convenient online shopping service. Customers send their shopping lists via the Xtra app, and employees prepare the products at the collection point for the chosen day and time.

Colruyt also focused on sustainability when renovating its Virginia store. The building has been fully equipped with LED lighting and motion detectors, representing a 30 percent energy savings.

It has also been equipped with a system for recovering the heat emitted by the refrigeration installations. Solar panels supply the store with green electricity. All these measures have allowed Colruyt to optimise its energy consumption and reduce its carbon footprint.

The car park has two charging stations for electric vehicles and eight extra-wide racks for bicycles or cargo bikes.

“With my team of 26 employees and eight butchers, we are eager to welcome our customers.” n

morrisons bishopbriggs

Morrisons has opened a brand new supermarket on Kirkintilloch Road in Bishopbriggs, creating 130 full and parttime jobs. The redeveloped store opened two years after the old Morrisons store on the same site was closed and knocked down.

The new store is 6,000 sq ft larger than the old one, meaning that in addition to a carefully tailored mix of Morrisons' own brand products and branded favourites, the new Morrisons store will have a large home and leisure range, a wider selection of Nutmeg clothing, a 100+ seat café, and a new Market Kitchen experience where freshly made meals will be created by a team of in-store chefs.

It will also feature Morrisons' much-loved Market Street counters, with colleagues available to advise on the meat, fish, bakery, deli, and salad bar range.

Other key features in the store include the return of the pharmacy to the main store, Morrisons: The Best range, which offers a little bit of luxury at great prices, a pizza oven offering hot, freshly made pizzas on the go,

and a wide selection of free-from products.

At the new Market Kitchen, customers in Bishopbriggs can have their breakfast, lunch, or evening meal freshly made to order using seasonal ingredients. They can also opt to eat in or pick up their food to go. The menu includes a choice of wraps, breakfast options, pies, jacket potatoes, toasties, rice bowls, hot pizzas, and burgers.

In addition to the Market Kitchen experience, the newly renovated store will also have a new Morrisons Café.

“We know the residents of Bishopbriggs have been eagerly anticipating the reopening of this new store,” said Paige O’Donnell, Morrisons Bishopbriggs Store Manager.

She hoped customers would love this new store and looked forward to welcoming them. n

GLO BAL

TIC TAC FLAMINGO

CHERRY LEMONADE

Tic Tac

Tic Tac has launched a new limited edition flavour, the Flamingo Cherry Lemonade. This burst of cherry and juicy lemon will turn any moment into a summer vibe and remind you of your favourite pink lemonade.

AERO X NESCAFÉ MOCHA

Aero x Nescafé

Every cup you drink can help make a difference. In collaboration with Aero, these Nescafe Mocha flavours are made with 100 percent responsibly sourced coffee, supporting coffee farmers in improving their lands and livelihoods.

The new flavours include the Aero x Nescafe Peppermint Mocha and the Aero x Nescafe Golden Honeycomb Mocha.

THE BIG CHEESE XL

The Big Cheese

The Big Cheese always hits the spot. It is made with real parmesan, cheddar, and 100 percent Australian durum wheat pasta. Ready in three minutes, the Big Cheese family got a little cheesier with the Cheesy Chook.

Dive into an irresistible blend of chicken and cheesy goodness with the delectable XL Mac and Cheese Bowl alongside the beloved classic favourite, The Big Cheese.

The Big Cheese range is the ultimate comfort food, quick, easy and irresistibly cheesy.

MCVITIE'S SPECIAL EDITION COLA BOTTLE FLAVOUR JAFFA CAKES

McVitie's

McVitie's Jaffa cakes are made with chocolate on top, sponge on the bottom, and a classic cola bottle flavour bit in the middle. This new flavour is a tasty addition to other Jaffa flavours and is suitable for vegetarians.

KRISPY KREME X FRIENDS

Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme has launched four new doughnuts to celebrate 30 years of the TV show FRIENDS. Each doughnut is a tribute to one of the most fanfavourite characters and episodes.

These include the Original Glazed doughnut finished with chocolatey icing, sprinkles, and white chocolate and a We Were On A Coffee Break, Central Perk Doughnut topped with caffè latte-flavoured icing, a chocolate swirl, frosting, and a white chocolate topper.

The How You Doin'? doughnut is a classic ring doughnut dipped in purple icing with mango and passionfruit-flavoured frosting. At the same time, the Friends Trifle, Doughnut is a strawberry and custard-filled doughnut topped with chocolate curls and green sprinkles.

This limited edition Feature Dozen packaging comes with a FRIENDS sticker sheet full of iconic quotes and moments from the show.

LAY'S

FAKE FLAVOUR

Lay's

Potato chip brand Lay’s, known for its numerous varieties of classic and innovative chip flavours, did a social media launch of its latest fake flavour. This was inspired by the trending lavender flavour and a take on everyone’s favourite iced coffee. Many fans said they’d want to see this as a limited edition launch.

MENTOS FANTA

Mentos x Fanta

Enjoy the combination of Mentos and Fanta! This limited edition roll provides a fantastic fresh taste. One of the world's most popular soft drinks is available in a delicious Mentos candy— the drink you can chew.

COCONUT WHITE DRINKING CHOCOLATE SACHETS

LIMITED EDITION

Hotel Chocolate

Those who enjoy the creaminess of white chocolate and tropical notes are in for a treat with Hotel Chocolate’s dreamy coconut iced drinking chocolate variety. Tropical coconut and sumptuous caramel milk meld beautifully into creamy white chocolate for a heavenly texture and delightfully light flavour.

These drinking chocolate sachets are brimming with cacao. Thirty-six percent cocoa butter ensures every sip melts in the mouth, while coconut adds to the creamy drinking experience. A hint of caramel-milk chocolate swirls through, bringing a decadent edge.

GLO BAL

MILKA CHOCOLATE MILK

Arla Foods x Mondelez

European dairy cooperative Arla Foods has signed a licensing agreement with Mondelēz International to produce, distribute and market chocolate milk under the Milka brand in Germany, Austria and Poland.

Using Milka's strong brand recognition and consumer loyalty, Arla Foods will leverage its expertise in dairy innovation and quality and secure growth in the very mature chocolate milk category.

The Milka brand is one of the most popular chocolate brands in Europe. With this product innovation, consumers can now indulge in the iconic Milka flavour in chocolate milk.

The Milka chocolate milk will be produced in threepack sizes at Esbjerg Dairy in Denmark.

YORKSHIRE BAKING COMPANY JAM & COCONUT MEGA LOAF

Yorkshire Baking Company

Yorkshire Baking Company Jam & Coconut Mega Loaf cake is guaranteed to bring back fond memories of school puddings and family gatherings. It can be paired with a selection of hot drinks, including coffee, hot chocolate, and tea.

Coming soon to Morrisons stores, enjoy the nostalgic taste of Jam & Coconut Sponge as a delicious new limited edition Mega Loaf.

ALL THINGS BUTTER CINNAMON BUN

All Things Butter

Three Robins' new Little Smoothies are a burst of flavour with a boost of nutrition. Available in two flavours, Totally Tropical and Super Berry, these smoothies have been made with nutritious oat milk and blended with natural fruit and vegetables.

Totally Tropical is a delicious blend of tropical fruits, including mango, banana and orange, while Super Berry is a delicious blend of raspberries and strawberries. They are the perfect on-the-go snack for kids and are free from dairy, nuts, soy, and sugar.

THREE ROBINS LITTLE SMOOTHIES

Three Robins

Three Robins' new Little Smoothies are a burst of flavour with a boost of nutrition. Available in two flavours, Totally Tropical and Super Berry, these smoothies have been made with nutritious oat milk and blended with natural fruit and vegetables.

Totally Tropical is a delicious blend of tropical fruits, including mango, banana and orange, while Super Berry is a delicious blend of raspberries and strawberries. They are the perfect on-the-go snack for kids and are free from dairy, nuts, soy, and sugar.

NEW GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP

Heinz

New Global Partnership as HEINZ and kate spade new york announce a debut limited-edition collection just in time for summer. Both brands have fostered generations of loyal fans with their kitchen and closet staples, making this partnership an unexpected yet natural fit that embraces the spirit of both HEINZ and kate spade new york.

HEINZ and kate spade new york debut capsule collection uniting the iconic and unmistakable red of HEINZ Ketchup with the playful styles of kate spade new york.

DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE COLLECTIBLES

Heinz

In the lead-up to the highly anticipated theatrical release of Marvel Studios’ “Deadpool & Wolverine”, fans have noticed something special about the signature red and yellow suits of the film’s title characters – they look a lot like another iconic duo: HEINZ Ketchup and Mustard.

HEINZ announced the release of limited-edition collectibles that let fans accessorise their ketchup and mustard bottles to resemble Deadpool and Wolverine.

LULU GUINNESS X WAITROSE TOTE RETURNS

Lulu Guinness x Waitrose

Following the rapid sellout of the Lulu Guinness bag last September at Waitrose, the two iconic British brands have once again collaborated to create a second eye-catching tote that is fashionable, adaptable, and highly sought after. Available online and in-store at Waitrose and John Lewis stores, the tote is crafted from recycled plastic bottles and adorned with the designer's signature monochrome colors.

ALL AMERICAN WITH ALDI

Aldi

Aldi has launched its American range into stores, and shoppers can expect stacks of stateside sensations, from cheeseburger and chicken wing crisps to deli burgers and giant marshmallows. Shoppers will be shouting ‘US-Yay’ as Aldi has brought back its limited-edition cheeseburgerflavoured crisps—Specially Selected Cheeseburger Crisps. Specially Selected Buffalo Wing Crisps have also been launched, which is ideal for those hosting friends.

GLO BAL

TIM HORTONS X ADIDAS SAMBA

Tim Hortons x Adidas

Tim Hortons and Adidas teamed up for a limited-edition Donut Day shoe collection, which was available to be won exclusively via a contest last month.

ALDI EXPANDS LOW TO NO ALCOHOL RANGE

Aldi

As the demand for delicious low to no alternatives grows, supermarket Aldi has expanded its offering with its first-ever zero percent Pinot Grigio Blush. With rosé lovers enjoying an average of 63 glasses of wine throughout the summer, Aldi has expanded its much-loved range with an alternative that offers all the refreshing flavours of traditional rosé without alcohol.

Aldi’s new zero percent Pinot Grigio Blush (75cl) is pale and boasts notes of sweet strawberry. It is balanced with a dry finish and perfect for summertime sipping.

These sneakers were a tribute to some of the most beloved Tim Hortons' favourites, including the Boston Cream, Honey Cruller, Vanilla Dip, and Double Chocolate, as part of celebrating 60 years of Tim Hortons.

ZOE DAILY 30+ EXCLUSIVELY AT WAITROSE

ZOE

Science and nutrition company ZOE will launch a firstto-market daily whole food supplement exclusively in Waitrose stores this July.

ZOE’s Daily30+ is a savoury mix of seeds, herbs, nuts, legumes and functional mushrooms, formulated to provide the diversity of over 30 plants and introduce over 35 different types of fibre in just one scoop.

PEPSI PINEAPPLE X LITTLE CAESARS

Pepsi x Little Caesars

Pepsi and Little Caesars have announced the return of the fan-favourite Pepsi Pineapple, which is available exclusively at Little Caesars for a limited time. Customers can enjoy even more tropical flavour in a new, one-of-a-kind 20-ounce bottle.

Following last summer's blockbuster success, the limited-edition flavour returned to Little Caesars for a second year, allowing Pepsi, Crazy Puffs and pineapple lovers to enjoy a winning, refreshing flavour combination.

when a carrot is not just a carrot

Brand owners must pay close attention to how they present their products. The language used on labels can significantly affect sales, as consumers' perceptions are often shaped by the words they read.

Descriptive and appealing language can transform an ordinary product into an irresistible one. For instance, labelling carrots as "succulent carrots" instead of just "carrots" instantly elevates their appeal. Such descriptive terms suggest a higher quality and can entice consumers to choose your product over a competitor's.

Packaging also plays a crucial role. High-quality, attractive packaging with a sophisticated design can give the impression that the product inside is of superior quality and worth a premium price. Well-designed packaging makes the product stand out on the shelf and will catch the consumer's eye. Provenance and origin information are

powerful tools in influencing consumer perception. Highlighting the origin of the product, such as "Italian extra-virgin olive oil," adds an element of exclusivity and authenticity. Consumers are often willing to pay more for products they perceive as genuine and special.

Certifications and endorsements can also boost the perceived value of a product. Displaying certifications like "organic," "fair trade," or "non-GMO" can assure consumers of the product's superior quality and ethical production. These labels provide a sense of trust and reliability, encouraging consumers to choose your product even at a higher price.

Storytelling and brand narrative create an emotional connection with consumers.

Sharing the story behind the product, such as the family farm it came from or the traditional methods used in its production, can make the product more relatable and desirable. This connection can significantly enhance the consumer's perception of the product's value.

Brand owners can effectively alter consumer perception and increase sales by carefully considering the language and information used on labels. The right words and packaging can transform a product, making it more appealing and justifying a higher price point.

Ultimately, it's not just about the product you sell but also about how you present it to the consumer. n

japan's food export fair

Japan's Food Export Fair is an exclusive trade show for importers, wholesalers, and international buyers to import/purchase Japanese food and beverage products. It is strongly supported by the Japanese Government. Wide varieties of Japanese food and beverages gather under one roof, here are our highlights from the June exhibition.