SupermarketNews // September 2014

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September 2014 • Vol. 7 No. 9

The changing face of supermarkets over his 55 years at Progressive Graeme Gower (see page 6)

SUPPLIER RELIEF AS FOODSTUFFS ENDS ITS MORATORIUM

BADEN NGAN KEE

PHEW! Suppliers are breathing communal sighs of relief as Foodstuffs North Island has ended its moratorium and is expecting things to get back to normal quickly. And with that concluding on August 31 as scheduled, the roll-out of the new SAP retail solution has started.

In mid-August its second SAP go-live was successfully concluded as it was rolled out to the merchandise, supply chain and retail divisions at its Mt Roskill Support Centre. At the same time, the company also deployed enhancements to existing SAP users in the Commercial Operations and Wholesale divisions along with the eight Gilmours stores.

The complex IT work bringing the whole North Island into a single operation proved to be the biggest challenge in integrating SAP with existing retail and warehouse systems and FSNI is still managing the normal post go-live issues arising out of such a significant change.

“We have been incredibly fortunate to have the full support of our supplier community in adhering to the moratorium on price adjustments, new promotions and new product launches,” says general manager merchandise Baden Ngan Kee. “Without their support we would

not have had the stable environment to migrate the 57,000 article/product data,” he says. Ngan Kee says SAP would eventually replace the systems used for ordering, promotions, reporting and the management of product and supplier information across the organization as each supermarket migrates to SAP over the next four years.

“It will be the first time in our 90 year history that we will operate across a single enterprise solution as one Foodstuffs’ organization,” he says.

In the meantime, the retail stores in the upper North Island – Pak’nSave, New World and Four Square – will continue to operate their existing systems until they migrate to SAP. But in the interim, the new SAP Retail solution has been integrated with their in-store systems and with the warehouse management systems in the upper North Island.

FSNI’s next SAP go-lives will be the rollout to three pilot stores, the first being Pak’nSave Albany this month followed by New World Morrinsville and Papamoa Four Square before the end of the year.

While the project promises many benefits in the near future, it has been difficult times for numerous suppliers who have had to bury their price, product and promotion ambitions although admittedly FSNI has dealt with extreme problem cases. n

GROCERY BALL A SUCCESS HELD at The Langham Hotel in Auckland last month, the 2014 Grocery Charity Ball has raised in excess of $200,000 for cancer charity Camp Quality. Now in its 11th year, the annual event was sold out three months in advance and attracted almost 700 attendees from across the grocery sector. For the first time in the Ball’s history, attendees were able to vote on more than 100 silent auction items via an electronic voting system with iPads on each table and a downloadable app. Pictured left (l-r) are Karen Kelly, Don Graham, Gary Troup (Camp Quality), Rob Davis, Scott MacKay with Ross MacKenzie and Leanne Murphy in the front row. n

COUNTDOWN EARNINGS INCREASE

COUNTDOWN has increased its annual earnings by 4.2% in the year to June 29 despite reported subdued trading conditions in New Zealand. The chain had pre-tax earnings of $309.8million for the 52 weeks, up over $7m on the previous year. Countdown sales were up 1.6% to $5.749 billion with the small sales growth reflecting price deflation across a number of categories. Online sales increased by more than 20% and this would be higher in future through service improvements and a planned 15 new online fulfilment stores. n

MURRAY JORDAN TO STEP DOWN FOODSTUFFS North Island managing director Murray Jordan has announced plans to resign mid next year after 11 years with the business. Jordan has successfully spearheaded the complex merger of Foodstuffs Auckland and Wellington, which is set to be largely completed before his departure.

“During a time of massive change, Foodstuffs North Island increased sales growth and market share which is a testament to Murray’s leadership,” says FSNI chairman Peter Anderson.

Anderson says the board will be conducting a comprehensive search for Jordan’s replacement to ensure the transition is seamless.

“Murray Jordan will be a huge loss to the grocery sector. He has played a stellar role in our industry and will leave holding the respect of the New Zealand supplier community,” says FGC CEO Katherine Rich. n

contents 10 Convenience Awards 14 Checker of the Year 18 Liquor 25 New Products 30 Artisan

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editorialcomment Plain sailing or mish-mash

We’re not drug dealers

THE grocery industry can only hope that commonsense prevails and our current government is returned at the upcoming election. Not that they are immune from the occasional whacky idea as well, but the concept of a mish-mash of parties all with a wide range of thoughts on attacking grocery is way beyond the pale. While Countdown has borne the brunt of the attacks so far this year, the Greens and Labour certainly won’t rest with them and Foodstuffs will come under fire with some universal policies as part of an industry-wide witch-hunt.

Certainly it would place our industry in an unreasonable trading position with the simple outcome of increased prices to the consumer although those creating the fuss can’t see that ahead.

If we must, we would probably accept a reasonably loose voluntary code of conduct but even so, it would seem mostly unenforceable. And if it was a legislated compulsory code, it would seem unlikely that any of our industry sectors could agree on the terms anyway with it being generally loose and still relatively unenforceable. The concept of an industry arbitrator is just as abhorrent when we finish up with an independent office knowing nothing of the industry’s idiosynchrasies. In the meantime, we all sit around waiting for the Commerce Commission to report before any real decisions will be made.

LAST month on national TV, addiction expert Professor Doug Sellman called supermarkets the biggest drug dealers in New Zealand. While I’m not a professor of anything and I’m partial to a glass of wine, to say supermarkets are solely responsible for the alcohol related issues affecting the country is ridiculous.

To liken the clean and brightly lit aisles of a supermarket to a back alley P dealer is insulting. Selling alcohol in-store offers consumers convenience but even if you remove the convenience I don’t believe there will be a noticeable change in the binge drinking culture of Kiwis. It seems as though supermarkets have become a scapegoat for all that is wrong with society. It’s an easy option for those on a witch hunt but alcohol abuse is an issue which affects the majority of developed nations, not all of which sell alcohol in supermarkets.

Take Australia as an example.

Alcohol is not sold in-store but the binge drinking culture is still alive and kicking, particularly among the nation’s youth. Maybe even more so than it is in New Zealand where Kiwis hand over $85 million on alcohol per week.

I don’t have the answers for reducing the $5 billion it costs New Zealand every year but perhaps we should start with education rather than blame.

PETER MITCHELL, Publisher

JASMINE WALTERS, Editor

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SPECIALTY supermarket chain Nosh is set to be acquired by Mad Butcher owner Veritas Investments for an undisclosed amount. Subject to shareholder, landlord and key supplier approval, the sale includes Nosh’s seven North Island stores which turn over in excess of $25 million per annum.

The acquisition is Veritas’ third in 16 months, previously picking up the Mad Butcher as well as a 50% stake in Kiwi Pacific Foods. Veritas is being funded by a facility of up to $5 million with ANZ bank and plans to invest in the Nosh business and overhaul its supply chain.

“Nosh is a great brand and fits perfectly into our food service and retail investment strategy. There is a food revolution occurring in New Zealand, encouraged by a plethora of cooking shows on television and a growing base of discerning consumers with knowledge of food and an appetite for quality cuisine. Nosh is one of the best brands in this space,” says Veritas chairman Mark Darrow.

The sale is expected to be completed early this month with Nosh’s 130 staff offered ongoing contracts. n

EGG PRODUCER SENTENCED

Convenience Leaders Summit, Crowne Plaza, Auckland

THE owner of defunct egg producer Forest Hill Farm has been sentenced to 12 months home detention and 200 hours community service for falsely packaging and selling cage eggs as free range or barn-laid eggs.

John Garnett pleaded guilty to 20 Crimes Act charges brought by the Commerce Commission in June and was sentenced in the Whangarei District Court last month. Garnett and Forest Hill Farm misled consumers and several large retailers in Auckland and Northland between April 2010 and November 2011, with the Commission predicting the company profited an additional $376,000 from the sale of over 206,000 dozen falsely labelled

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eggs. Both Progressive and Foodstuffs say they ceased purchasing from Forest Hill Farm back in 2011 when they discovered the deception.

“We considered the conduct in this case to be very serious as it was calculated and deliberate. We only became aware of Mr Garnett’s actions after members of the egg producing industry made a complaint to the Commission. The conduct was also particularly deceptive because it was impossible for the public to detect – you can’t tell the difference between a cage egg and a barn-laid or free range egg by looking at them,” says Commerce Commission consumer manager Stuart Wallace. n

LOCAL PRODUCTS WIN BRITISH FANS

THE recent visit by the West Ham football club brought a whole group of British fans to New Zealand – and amongst their treats was a prematch brunch that included a wide range of local products. Fans Chas Sturton and Eddie Cole are pictured with some of the Blackball Salami Company’s range of products that were served up. Both the 40 man West Ham squads and their fans were also presented with packs of local products including meat, olive oils, tinned food, confectionery, beer and wine along with travel books clothing and backpacks. n

NUTRICIA FOR SALE?

THERE are strong rumours in Europe and America that Danone may be selling its medical and pediatric nutrition business Nutricia. Its shares rose last month on rumours that it was in advanced discussions with Illinois drug firm Hospira although other previous suitors, Nestle and Fresenius, were not being ruled out. The stories on the French dairy giant include the use of any sales funds to target Mead Johnson Nutrition, estimated to be worth around €14 billion. n

SupermarketNews is published under license. Please direct all enquiries and correspondences to SupermarketNews. The opinions and material published in this edition of SupermarketNews are not necessarily those of the publishers unless specifically stated. All material in this publication is copyright and may only be reproduced with the consent of the publisher. Copyright 2013 ISSN NO. 1173-3365

PUBLISHER Peter Mitchell, peter@reviewmags.com

MARKETING Tania Walters, tania@reviewmags.com

EDITOR Jasmine Walters, jasmine@reviewmags.com

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION Kieran Mitchell, kieran@reviewmags.com

ADVERTISING SALES Jasmine Walters, jasmine@reviewmags.com Felicity-Anne Flack, felicity@reviewmags.com SENIOR DESIGNER Raymund Sarmiento, raymund@reviewmags.com

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SNAP FRESH SOLD

GOLDEN State Foods (GSF), one of America’s largest food processors and distributors, has purchased Kiwi salad greens and vegetable supplier Snap Fresh Foods. The acquisition includes two New Zealand based facilities, currently servicing the domestic market and export to China, as well as retail brands Krispkut, Farmer Bill’s, Dashboard Diner, Salad Shakes and Sproutman.

“The addition of Snap Fresh provides great growth opportunities for GSF particularly in the retail salads segment, while providing new products and capabilities to our existing foodservice customers in the region,” says Neil Cracknell, executive vice president and CEO of Golden State Foods.

Snap Fresh Foods’ farm suppliers will continue existing operations and contract exclusively to GSF.

PRICE HIKES IN US CONFECTIONERY

MARS has joined the other big players of Nestle and Hershey in raising confectionery prices in the US. Mars has added 7% to most of its portfolio of products following a dramatic increase in the cost of doing business. In July, Hershey introduced an 8% price hike for many of its instant consumable lines and Nestle had earlier said it planned to up prices to restore growth to the category. All the companies said the increases were due to both currencies and commodities.

OVERSEAS TOUR FOR C-STORES

FOODSTUFFS EXPO A SUCCESS

THE Australian and New Zealand arms of the Association of Convenience Stores are running an overseas study tour that takes in the NACS convention and expo in Las Vegas and a tour through South Korea and Japan. The tour runs for around eleven days from October 7 -17.

There are limited registrations with more information on www.aacsevents.com. au/study tour.php

GUNNELL ON MOVE TO FIJI

MAURICE Gunnell, long time industry personality, is being transferred to Fiji in November to handle the Nestle business in the Pacific Islands. A many year servant of the Swiss company, he has played a leading role in industry affairs including many terms on the Food & Grocery Council’s working committees.

His most recent role at Nestle has been Corporate Services Manager.

MAJOR RETAIL MERGER IN US

THE two major retail chains of Safeway and Albertsons have agreed to merge.

The new organization that is yet to be named, has a turnover four times that of the New Zealand entire grocery industry.

Safeway alone has just had first half sales up 1.2% to $US16.3 billion but that incurred a net loss of $US3.1million mainly from discontinued operations.

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Foodstuffs Steve Anderson presents L’Oreal (top), Wedderburn (left) and Prestons Master Butchers (right) with awards for best health & beauty, equipment and meat displays.

FOODSTUFFS annual fresh and grocery trade expo was held in Wellington’s Westpac Stadium last month, hosting 240 suppliers and attracting more than 3,000 attendees over two days. The expo was also home to Foodstuffs Supplier Awards with winners announced at a gala dinner for 750 hosted by Pio Terei and guests kept thoroughly entertained by comedian Dai Henwood. L’Oreal was the big winner at the awards, taking out the best Health & Beauty Display as well as the Overall Best Foodstuffs Expo Display for 2014. Other supplier winners were MG Marketing who was judged Best Produce Display; Sealord for Best Seafood Display; La Fromagerie took out the Best Deli Display; Prestons Master Butchers won Best Meat Display; NZ Bakels was once again awarded

Best Bakery Display; Best Floral & Garden Display went to Fresh Direct; Goodman Fielder took home the Best General Grocery Display; Best General Merchandise Display was awarded to Energizer NZ; Villa Maria won Best Liquor Display and Wedderburn’s stand was judged Best Plant & Equipment Display.

The new venue proved successful despite the chilly weather. “It was great to take the show further south this year and give attendees the chance to enjoy our capital city for a short while. Expo 2014 was a huge success and the venue team really stepped up to the challenge. The facilities were great and its central location made it easy for all,” says Foodstuffs New Zealand’s corporate PR director, Antoinette Shallue. n See pictures on page 32.

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FONTERRA is looking to capitalise on the growing Chinese baby formula market, announcing plans to spend $1.7 billion on a 20% stake in China’s Beingmate Baby & Child as well as significantly increasing its New Zealand based processing capabilities.

The 20% ownership of Beingmate is costing the dairy giant $615 million while upgrades and expansions to its Waikato and Southland processing facilities is expected to top $555 million. n

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and Budget will be rolling out the Government’s Health Star Rating system on its product packaging from early next year. Dave McAteer, general manager Foodstuffs Own Brands, says the co-operative supports the principles of the Health Star Rating System.

“As one of the biggest food retailers in New Zealand, Foodstuffs supermarkets are committed to ensuring customers have access to healthy eating initiatives and by adopting the Health Star Rating on our own brand products we can play our part in helping Kiwis make good nutritional choices,” says McAteer. n

STRATEGY

PROGRESSIVE gathered over 700 suppliers for morning and afternoon forward planning sessions last month at Manukau’s Vodafone Event Centre. And while the day’s detail was confidential, managing director Dave Chambers said it was great to have the opportunity to talk over the company’s business with suppliers from right across the spectrum including people they had a direct relationship from day to day.

“We appreciate this year has been challenging and we wanted to provide those companies who work with us, an update on the Progressive plan and the Countdown strategy particularly,” he said. n

Available 22 September 2014

FOODSTUFFS hugely successful Little Shop promotion returned to New World stores last month. The mini grocery collectables set has been increased to 50 pieces and includes limited edition bonus items and new accessories. Consumers also have the chance to win a Little Shop electric ride-on truck, with one per-store up for grabs, as well as two fully operational Sealord little boats. For every $40 spent in-store, consumers will receive a sealed package containing a mini grocery collectable. General manager of marketing for Foodstuffs New Zealand, Steve Bayliss, says the return of Little Shop is accompanied by a Facebook App allowing consumers to track their collection and swap their mini collectables.

PROGRESSIVE’S longest serving employee, Graeme Gower, celebrated 55 years with the retailer last month with a trip to Queenstown for his contribution to the company. Currently employed as an equipment supply co-ordinator in Progressive’s head office since 2007, Gower says a lot has changed since he began his career at the New Plymouth Woolworths store back in 1959 when he was just 15.

“Extending trading hours, barcoding, increased productivity and the way we collect data would have to be the biggest changes. While the stores have changed names over the years the principles have stayed the same.”

His roles over the years have been varied and include hardware assistant, refurbishment team, produce buyer and store manager. Gower is also responsible for introducing Greg Foran, current CEO of Walmart’s US division, to the grocery industry hiring him as a young man and talking him out of a career in journalism.

“The company offers young people so many opportunities and Greg did very well, moving up through the ranks very quickly,” he says.

With no plans to retire anytime soon, Gower says Progressive has nurtured and mentored him throughout his career.

“I’ve got a passion for this job and I just love what I’m doing.” n

COUNTDOWN UNIT STARTS IN PONSONBY

CONSTRUCTION has now started on the giant supermarket, retail, office and residential complex known as Vinegar Lane in Auckland’s central Ponsonby. Base of the complex is a Countdown supermarket topped by three levels of office space. There will also be 10 retail outlets and five levels of underground car parking.

Estimated completion date of the project is mid 2016.

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Photo by: Ted Baghurst

LONG SERVICE CELEBRATED

LITTLE SHOP RETURNS

GRAEME GOWER

STAR SYSTEM A POSITIVE STEP SUPERMARKETS are likely to see the first products sporting the distinctive stars of the voluntary front-of-pack Health Star Rating system before Christmas, after the New Zealand Government decided in June that it would pick up the Australian system.

It was a good move. Both the industry and shoppers were keen to see a common system that helps show shoppers what’s in food. In fact, a poll of consumers showed that about 80% of those surveyed supported the scheme. FGC, as the peak body for the food and grocery sector, is encouraging our members to consider applying it to their products.

We initially had some reservations when calculations in the first trials to rate foods produced some strange results. But further work by the working group – which consisted of food safety officials, public health representatives, consumer groups, nutritionists, and FGC representing the food industry – largely sorted out those issues.

The calculations which decide on the number of stars are backed by science and factual food composition.

They are based on the nutrients identified in the Australian Dietary Guidelines as those we should not have too much of (energy, saturated fat, salt, sugar), and modify these based on food that the guidelines say we should have more of (fruit, vegetables, low fat milk, milk products, lean protein, wholegrain breads, cereals).

The Health Star Rating system has two big advantages over other systems.

First, it’s easy to understand: just like the energy star rating system on fridges and other electrical appliances, it’s easy for shoppers to see at a glance what they’re getting. But the biggest thing is that it evaluates the whole food and not just individual nutrients, and the rating is based on nutrients that are positive and negative according to dietary guidelines. Positive ingredients such as vegetables, fruits, nuts and legumes get extra points.

And that’s where it differs from the traffic light system that has been talked about a lot by some people. The problem with the traffic light system is that it evaluates individual nutrients but does not give an overall rating to the food.

Traffic lights can mislead shoppers into believing some foods and drinks are healthier than they actually are.

For example, sugary soft drinks would get a colour rating that some shoppers could interpret looks healthier than

milk or other foods that are important to a healthy and balanced diet. The conflicting messages were one of the main reasons why the traffic light idea was dropped by government ministers from New Zealand and Australia years ago.

Another good thing about the Health Star Rating system is that it can be used with other schemes such as the Heart Foundation’s Tick. FGC was particularly keen that any new scheme did not damage or diminish the Heart Tick as this is already well-known, trusted, and used by many Kiwis.

“conflicting messages were one of the main reasons why the traffic light idea was dropped by government . . .”

FGC has been part of the investigation into front-of-pack labelling for some years. As well as being members of the New Zealand Front of Pack Labelling Advisory Group which developed the Health Star Rating system, we have volunteered to help with some of the educational workshops for industry being planned by the Ministry of Primary Industries, and we have been distributing information on the system to members, as well as providing feedback on the clarity of the style guide.

I’m aware of 15 food companies that are already working to implement the Health Star Rating system, but there are likely to be others which are keeping their plans under wraps until they put them into supermarkets.

Though we expect to see the first wave of implementation this year, most of it will happen next year, as companies plan pack changes six months to two years ahead, depending on their programmes. n

Katherine Rich CEO, New Zealand Food & Grocery Council

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NEW COUNTDOWN OPENS IN DARGAVILLE COUNTDOWN has opened a new generation 3500 sqm supermarket in Dargaville, 50% larger than the store it replaces. Officially opened by Kaipara District Council Commissioner John Robertson, the new store features an expansive fresh produce department, full-service bakery, service deli and seafood department. Countdown’s new Dargaville offering also includes an expanded new layout for clothing and kitchenware merchandise and has resulted in 22 new jobs for the region.

Countdown’s managing director Dave Chambers says the company is pleased to support further job creation in the local community.

“We’re a very proud employer of more than

550 people in Northland and it’s great to provide an opportunity for new team members to join our business, and start great careers in retail with us,” says Chambers.

Store manager Craig Unsworth says the new store offers a new and improved shopping experience.

“We’re really excited to show off our brand new store and can’t wait to see what our local customers think of the more modern design and exciting new products and range,” says Unsworth.

A 24-metre-long mural designed by 20 Dargaville Intermediate School students, family and community members called Diamond Frangipani is on display along the walkway to the front door of the store. n

STREAMLINED FIELD SALES & MERCHANDISING MOBILE sales software company Opmetrix says it has significantly increased its growth rate since moving to a tablet based application, with clients opting for many of the enhanced features now on offer. With 15 years in the NZ marketplace, Opmetrix offers a total mobile solution package for the grocery sector which is supported by a full management reporting suite.

Already used by a range of field users including key account managers, territory managers, field managers and sales reps, Opmetrix’s software is designed to increase productivity and streamline field sales.

Its reporting suite provides management, brand managers and owners with timely and pertinent information. Managing director Oliver Huggins says the company continuously introduces new features based on customer input, driving their clients’ operating efficiencies. “Many of our team have extensive FMCG industry experience, so we understand and appreciate the issues that key stakeholders wish to solve. We are hands on in approach to ensure all our clients get what they’re after both in the field and from their reporting suites,” says Higgins. Constellation Brands and Cottonsoft have recently invested in Opmetrix with Fonterra Brands, Cerebos and Hellers amongst a number of market leaders using the software. n

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HIRING THE RIGHT NEW PEOPLE IS CRITICAL EVERY week NARGON fields queries from members about employment law.

It is probably the most common topic we are asked about. Supermarkets are major employers, particularly of people entering the workforce for the first time or returning after a long absence. Those factors make hiring the right person even more difficult than usual. 90 day probationary employment periods have significantly reduced the risk for employers and given them the confidence to give people a chance. That is the reason NARGON has consistently supported the policy.

Hiring the right person, even for part-time or casual work, is important.

If you select the wrong person it can affect your business, your customers and other staff. Recently, Fred Ohlsson, ANZ’s managing director of retail and business banking, wrote an article in the Herald arguing that “a robust hiring process can go a long way towards helping you find the people and skills you need to take your business forward.”

Mr Ohlsson is absolutely right about that. He also provided some practical tips for hiring which are absolutely applicable to supermarkets. Here are some of his key points and our comments.

Get personal: Outline the type of person you’re looking for, not just their skills and qualifications, but also personal characteristics such as a strong attention to detail or good people skills. You can train people

to give them the skills to do the job, but you cannot change someone’s personality. NARGON would also stress the importance of employees having the right attitude and being a good fit with the store.

Get specific: Create a detailed job description outlining the specific duties and responsibilities required in the role. If performance problems do arise in the future, it’s hard to address these if you have not been clear about the duties of the role. NARGON notes that employment agreements are required by law for all employees but job descriptions are equally important.

Ask the right questions: Create an interview question template. Having a chat is not a robust way to determine if the person is right for the job. A questionnaire enables you to come up with questions that will demonstrate people’s skills and attitude, and also ensures that you ask all applicants the same questions.

Put them to the test: If you’re looking for evidence that the applicant has the skills they have stated, you could ask them to do a task in the form of a test so they can demonstrate those skills. This can apply to anything from working a till, stacking shelves to driving a forklift.

Check references: Once you’ve selected an applicant, it’s essential to do reference checks. It’s important to verify the relationship of the referee to the applicant, how long they have known them and the reason they’re qualified to give a reference.

NARGON is aware that stores are often keen to get promising staff started as quickly as possible but it is important this process is followed through.

Train new staff for success: Staff who know what they are doing make fewer mistakes, require less supervision and will contribute more to your business.

NARGON suggests it is unreasonable to expect new staff to be up to speed right away.

Keep them motivated: Mr Ohlsson makes the excellent point that things do not stop when someone is hired.

He argues that to get the most out of staff you need to keep them motivated. Ensure they understand the importance of their role to the business, keep them informed and give them recognition for the good work they do. NARGON agrees that it sounds like a lot of work but it is also critical. Customers will know if it is being done well or done poorly. Staff are usually the employer’s direct link to customers.

Hiring a new staff member is a significant decision and needs to be done carefully to ensure the best outcomes for management, staff and customers. n

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COCA-COLA AMATIL’S LOWER EARNINGS

PROFITS for this year are expected to be materially down on 2013 for Coca-Cola Amatil as its soft drink, juice and bottled water lines come under pressure. Demand across the board is subdued with its net profit for the six months to June 30 falling over 15% to $A182.3 million down almost $A34m over the same period last year.

Earnings in New Zealand and Fiji were flat in the local currencies due to poor demand during the wet summer. Its earnings in Indonesia also plunged 83%. The recently developed alcohol beverages unit was expected to contribute this year but went backwards. Overall trading conditions had deteriorated and were expected to remain challenging for the second half. Its shares have fallen by around 19% this year.

CONSENT SOUGHT FOR NEW STORE

PROGRESSIVE has applied to the Palmerston North City Council for resource consent for a new $16 million Countdown store on Pioneer Highway. If it goes ahead the proposed 2,800 sqm store would be the fourth Countdown in the area and is expected create up to 100 jobs for the area.

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convenience CONVENIENCE INDUSTRY HITS NEW AWARDS NIGHT HIGH

THE convenience industry is sending two representatives to the NACS show and convention in Las Vegas next month following their outstanding performances in the annual Peter Jowett industry awards.

Pete Robson from Z Energy and Alex Tuala from British American Tobacco will be in Las Vegas representing the New Zealand convenience industry.

There were four runners-up in the final with other presentations from Jared Morris-Jenkins (Z Energy), Jared Lemon (Mobil), Reth Vorn (BAT) and Kei Kwon (BAT).

The NZ Association of Convenience

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Stores’ annual scholarship and industry awards were a sellout affair in Auckland last month with the major event being the best retailer and supplier presentations.

INDUSTRY AWARD

Eight awards were up for contention again this year but winning out overall and taking the Supreme Supplier of the Year was Fonterra Brands (Tip Top Ice Cream).

The Best New Product launched in 2013 went to Twin Agencies (Whittakers L&P 50g slab). The Best Retailer for Store Compliance was won

by BP Oil. This year’s Best Category

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Manager was Scott Bell of Star-Metro.

The Best Key Account Manager was taken out by Helen Wolfgramm of Frucor. Best Direct Infield Supplier was taken out by Tip Top Ice Cream while the Best Indirect Infield Supplier award went to Mondelez (Cadbury).

The Best Head Office Suppliers were Cadbury (large) and Twin Agencies (medium) Guest speaker on the night was young Australian Brad Smith who has twice been that country’s young entrepreneur of the year. He is best known for his motorcycle design and build company Braaap which has also won the Australian Retail Business of

The Year four times.

Lance Dobson from Nielsen also presented the latest in the research company’s Consumer Insights.

The managing committee for the next two year period is (retail representatives) Roger Bull (Red Circle), Lisa Oldershaw (BP), Tim Stevens (Star Metro), Paul Clausen (Mobil), Glen Nixon (Z Energy) and Peter Morton (Herbert Morton).

Supplier representatives are Peter Glass (Imperial Tobacco), Stephen Fielder (Coca-Cola), Campbell Bruce (Frucor), Rachel Leeuwenberg (Fonterra Brands), Adrian Blake (Mondelez) and Richard Kirby (Twin Agencies).

The next event on the NZACS calendar is the Convenience Leaders summit at Auckland’s Crowne Plaza on November 13 where sponsorship and exhibit spaces are still available. n More pictures next issue.

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I 11

SYMPOSIUM TO BRING FOCUS BACK TO FOOD FIGURING out what to eat and what to avoid can be confusing.

Health advice on how to lose weight, look better and feel energised is everywhere. The latest fad diets, often promoted by celebrities, are also discredited by doctors who question their safety and effectiveness.

Yet dieting is big business. The total global weight-loss market is worth around $700 billion, according to a report by Market And Markets.

While most celebrity diets eventually fade from the headlines, there is one thing all health experts agree on: eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day is good for us. But with so much information

out there, it is not surprising many people are confused about what they really should be eating.

To help address this, United Fresh, on behalf of the 5+ A Day Charitable Trust, is proud to sponsor a symposium next month that will explore science-based ideas around key food messages.

The symposium, facilitated by the New Zealand Nutrition Foundation, will focus on what we should be eating every day, rather than on individual nutrients or whether diets should be gluten-free, low-fat, high-fat or based on what our ancestors ate.

It will provide a unique opportunity for public health workers, nutritionists

CHARTA INVESTS IN AUCKLAND SITE SPECIALISING in custom made quality corrugated cardboard boxes, Charta Packaging is investing heavily in its business with a new multimillion dollar printing press and state-ofthe-art ink kitchen installed at its

Auckland plant. The new six colour French press is the most advanced flexographic technology in Australasia and allows the company to print directly onto cardboard, over-gloss with UV coating units as well as provide specialty die cutting and gluing. Simplifying the printing process, Charta’s new press removes the need for offset printing and can produce up to 18,000 finished boxes in an hour. Complementing the press is the latest in colour matching, ensuring its high quality graphics are colour consistent.

and dietitians, academics, food writers, teachers and those in the food industry to come together and get back to basics when talking about food.

The keynote speaker is author, academic, teacher and media commentator, Dr David Katz.

As director and co-founder of Yale Prevention Research Center, David is a recognised thought leader in nutrition, chronic disease prevention, health promotion, weight management and integrative medicine.

Other speakers will include academics from the Universities of Auckland and Otago, AUT as well as the Ministry of Health. Topics will include why we need to talk about food not nutrients, food for children and for ageing, food economics, consumer demand and the role of the food industry.

Members of United Fresh New Zealand Incorporated, the country’s only pan-produce organisation, have worked collaboratively since 1991 to produce and supply quality fresh fruit and vegetables to Kiwi consumers, to boost health and wellbeing.

United Fresh and 5+ A Day will continue to raise awareness about the benefits of eating fresh fruit and vegetables every day. It is the fuss-free way to a healthy lifestyle.

Visit www.unitedfresh.co.nz to learn more about United Fresh membership. n

Supplying the market since 1978, more than 70% of Charta’s business is in FMCG with a significant portion of the company’s work being for the wine industry. Seeing good growth from FMCG clients in Auckland, Charta moved a significant part of its manufacturing into its Highbrook site just over six months ago.

National sales manager Jason Sinclair says the new machinery and plant will allow the company to grow its retail ready packaging offering.

“While Charta has seen good growth over the last five years, we’ve been capacity restricted for the past two years.

The new print press will allow us to push into new markets and shelf ready packaging is a great way to combine branded high graphic display features with ready to use packaging, increasing the quality of the customer experience,” says Sinclair.

Sinclair says Charta remains specialist focused with emphasis on innovation, customer service and quality. Sustainability is also a big part of the company’s ethos, with its paper suppliers being certified members of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), its corrugated cardboard is recyclable and green inks are used. n

Bronwen Anderson Nutritionist United Fresh

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THE

PE R F E C T S TOR E C A LL

GLOBAL SPEAKERS ATTRACT ATTENDEES GS1 held a one-day global conference for New Zealand thought leaders last month, attracting 150 attendees across a multitude of sectors including FMCG, health care, export and agriculture.

Hosting nine global speakers, Connect 2014 focused on three issues critical for the growth of New Zealand businesses – China: What’s Next?, How does NZ capture value?, and Innovation: The Secret Sauce. With Kiwi exports to China 1.36 billion increasing by 45% last year, China’s 13.6 population offers huge growth opportunities for New Zealand companies and products.

Keynote speakers included world renowned creativity and innovation speaker Sir Ken Robinson, Fonterra’s director business transformation Philip Turner; Financial Times Beijing bureau chief Jamil Anderlini; Hangzhou WIT Assessment vice president Mr Lu; APEC Business Advisory Council’s NZ representative Tony Nowell, United States Department of Agriculture chief information officer Douglas Bailey; Amazon.com’s former chief scientist Dr Andreas Weigend; Callaghan Innovation chief executive Dr Mary Quin and Xero’s global head of strategy Chris Teeling. n

RETAIL GIANTS LIFT PROFITS

were different. Woolworths has focused on acquisitions and opening new stores while Coles worked on profit through efficiencies per square metre in existing stores. Woolworths now has 872 supermarkets while Coles has 741.

Wesfarmers says its Target stores will continue to face challenges but there is good momentum in Coles, Bunnings, Officeworks and Kmart Woolworths on the other hand warned it expected trading conditions to remain challenging but still forecast the upcoming year to show profit growth of between four and seven percent.

Coles is currently investing over $A1.1billion in 70 news stores across the country creating around 8000 jobs, but at the same time is slashing around 400 jobs at head office in a move to cut costs. n

RETAIL giant Woolworths has reported a net profit of $A2.45b for the year to June 30, up over $A20m over last year despite a major loss on the Masters hardware chain and weak earnings on Big W. And Coles owner Wesfarmers has made a net profit of $A2.69billion, up over $400m on the previous year. Earnings from Coles supermarkets were up 9% to $A1.67billion.

Although reporting similar sales results, the strategies adopted by Coles and Woolworths

Merchandising Audits Promotion Compliance Trade Send Analysis Surveys Audits Photo Capture Objective Planning Call Notes & History GPS & Mapping Sales Entry

GLASS RECYCLING ON THE RISE ESTABLISHED in 2006, the Glass Packaging Forum has invested $2.74 million in infrastructure and glass waste recovery on behalf of more than 100 commercial members including retailers, beverage manufacturers and wineries.

With Government accredited product stewardship schemes for glass and public place recycling, the Glass Packaging Forum’s voluntary recovery programs has resulted in more recycled glass in the marketplace. Currently at 69% of consumption, New Zealand’s level of recycled glass is comparable with other world leading efforts, some of which have mandatory legislation.

“We are committed to addressing issues of concern rather than lobbying and discussing where the responsibility lies and have the only accredited packaging

dedicated to this,” says product stewardship schemes dedicated Webber.manager Being aligned with theBeing glassaligned packaging scheme general John Webber. with the glass reduces risk of mandatory legislation with the not for packaging scheme reduces risk of mandatory legislation profitthe organisation working collaboratively with industry with not for profit organisation working collaboratively and industry local government to promotetothe benefits glass with and local government promote the of benefits containers.

“Product stewardship provides a alevel of glass containers.

“Product stewardship provides level of protection against the possibility of Government Government legislation wouldbe bemuch muchmore moreexpensive expensive restrictive that would andand restrictive thanthan our our own voluntary approach.” own voluntary approach.”

Product stewardship schemes are accredited for seven years before organisations are required to show an increase in membership uptake. For more information on the Glass Packaging Forum please contact John Webber on john@glassforum.org.nz john@glassforum.org.nzn

www.opmetrix.com sales@opmetrix.com 0508 725 375 September 2014

I 13

CHECKER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

PASEO SEES GROWTH

FOODSTUFFS held its annual Checker of the Year regional competitions last month with New World and Pak’nSave checkout operators from throughout Manawatu, Taranaki, Wellington and Hawkes Bay regions participating.

The Hollywood-themed event required checkers to scan 30 items as fast as possible while a team of senior Foodstuffs staff judged operators on their speed, presentation, customer service and accuracy.

“Checkout operators are the face of our stores, and a competition that encourages them to excel helps ensure Foodstuffs’ customers are getting the best customer service,” says event organiser Kristie McGregor.

Manawatu’s top three checkers were Jess Childs from Masterton New World, Janine Holdaway from Levin New World and Ainsley Downes from Marton New World. Taranaki’s top three operators were Kelly Hopkins from New Plymouth New World, Emily Short from Stratford New World, and Kim Madden from Stratford New World.

Laura Bishop from New World Karori, Olivia Keay from New World Island Bay and Janiella Abelita from New World Miramar were Wellington’s top three checkers while the top three Hawkes Bay checkout operators were Melissa Sannazzaro from PnS Napier, Brooke Ruddenklau from New World Greenmeadows

MEETING market demand for environmentally responsible products, Cottonsoft’s premium toilet tissue label Paseo is growing at 45%, the highest growth level in a highly competitive category.

Within the range Paseo’s 3-ply long roll toilet tissue, which features 50% more sheets than the brand’s regular roll, has seen particularly good growth, offering consumers the immediate convenience of fewer roll changes along with the environmental benefits of less packaging, fewer roll cores, and fewer journeys for delivery trucks.

The brand’s 3X wipes 3-ply paper towels have also increased in size by 20%, delivering more value to shoppers and retailers. Paseo’s range of biodegradable products use Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) certified paper, the largest forest certification programme in the world. Cottonsoft is currently supporting its Paseo brand with consumer promotions and a TV campaign. n

MANAWATAU WINNERS: Left to right: Ainsley Downes, Jess Childs, Janine Holdaway

TARANAKI WINNERS: Left to right: Emily Short, Kelly Hopkins, Kim Madden

WELLINGTON WINNERS: Left to right: Olivia Keay, Laura Bishop, Janiella Abelita

HAWKES BAY WINNERS: Left to right: Linda Peacock, Melissa Sannazzaro, Brooke Ruddenklau

and Linda Peacock from PnS Hastings.

“The Checker of the Year competition has been going for over 40 years now, and it is a fun way to keep staff motivated. All the stores put up a big contingent of supporters, so even the people not

competing get involved in the team spirit,” says McGregor.

The winners of each event will now head to the regional final in Palmerston North in November to compete for the title of Customer Service Superstar. n

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GREAT CONVERSATIONS CREATIVITY. It’s a trait that we recognise in others, and, if we are honest, a trait that most of us aspire to have as part of our core skill set of attributes.

In a business context the linkage between creativity/innovation and business success in the modern economy (ergo the success of New Zealand) is so desirable that a new agency has been set up by the government to drive innovation.

Callaghan Innovation is named after Sir Paul Callaghan, one of the most inspiring leaders of the recent past who straddled the fields of science, business and public policy.

So it was in this context and to contribute to the conversation on role of innovation in the NZ economy, the CEO of Callaghan Innovation Dr Mary Quin was matched to the head of strategy at Xero Chris Teeling and legendary thinker Sir Ken Robinson at the recent Connect 2014 conference. A dream team indeed! And the three did not disappoint.

Mary Quin outlined the role of the government in partnering with business to build innovative products and services, and then the hand-over process to their partner agency NZ Trade & Enterprise to take on the world. Emphasis was placed on being ambitious and building in a ‘Think Global’ agenda from ‘Day 1’, raising capital and investing in R&D. Business leaders were reminded of the role of staff selection, capability and the

LNZ001 KimberlyClark 157x210.indd 1

critical role the educational sector plays in building innovative potential.

Following on from Mary, and representing a company that is recognised in many quarters as innovative-to-its-core Chris Teeling outlined the ambitious strategy Xero has for itself and the NZ economy.

Xero’s ambitions are legendary, and the cloud-based accounting company that has become the darling of the NZ stock exchange is certainly taking on the world from Wellington.

A key theme hit by Chris was the challenge for NZ business in managing the transition from ‘Web 2.0’ – usergenerated content epitomised by Facebook – to ‘Web 3.0’ whereby border-less information and analytics build transformative potential for delivering services globally.

Harkening back to the first refrigerated cargo ship that connected NZ’s pastoral sector to European mouths, Chris argued that the next few years present for NZ the online equivalent of the 1960’s moon-shot programme. NZ is presented with an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect to the world and dispel the ‘tyranny of distance’.

Making the case for another fibre connection to the world and unconstrained internet data pervasively available, Chris saw that inter-operability standards and accountability by CEOs and CTOs to commit to a new future based on innovation as being imperative.

To round out the innovation stream, Sir Ken Robinson focussed on the nexus of creativity and education, arguing that creativity can be fostered and stimulated by an educational environment or still born. Wading into contemporary politics, he stressed that the current fashion for ‘standardbased’ educational assessment kills creativity.

Data internationally has shown that under such environments students become guided explicitly or unintentionally away from subjects such as the arts where creativity is an overt aim (and thus perceived to be subjective and non-fact based) and towards subjects where there is the standard or ‘right’ answer.

Underlining this argument Sir Ken showed an amazing video from Elad Segev’s TED talk where children were given the same starting point for a drawing (a triangle) and given either instructions to “Complete the painting the right way” or to “Complete the painting” without any suggestion that there was a right way of doing the assignment.

The outcomes were amazing – in the one case mostly monochromatic variations on stick houses, in the other case amazingly colourful and innovative

scenes from their imagination (see accompanying pics; screenshots from https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=9TskeE43Q1M).

The point was well made – if business really wants to be innovative, it must encourage experimental behaviours and address management structures that constrain thinking. A challenge indeed! n

Peter Stevens CEO, GS1 New Zealand

September13/11/13 2014

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12:14 pm

storecheck THE high standard of stores available to West Auckland consumers made it difficult for our mystery shopper to find any major problems. New World

FRESH CHOICE, WAIMAUKU

Knowing there was a recently opened New World in Kumeu I decided to check out the options in West Auckland. First up was a small Fresh Choice in Waimauku. The car park was pretty small but I was able to get a park. The fresh produce area was brightly lit with fresh, well stocked product. The cheese fridge in this area had an excellent array of well displayed local and international cheese. There was a cold wind blowing into the store from the open warehouse door which was unpleasant, otherwise, it was a small but handy supermarket.

NEW WORLD, KUMEU

Just along from there is the north-west township of Kumeu. A recently built New World was the reason for my visit. Plenty of parks were available and a covered walkway to the entrance would be useful in the rain. On entering the store it looked on the inside the same as the outside, which is probably due to the bright, well lit design. The fresh produce and deli areas were excellent and very appealing, although the bananas looked old. A very nice array of colourful salads were available. A great selection of cuts were featured in the meat section and throughout the store the products were all well fronted with good signage. I went through the self checkouts and then on out of the store.

STORE EXTERIOR

FC NW CD CD Waimauku Kumeu Westgate Lincoln Rd

• Was the outside of the building and grounds clean, tidy free of rubbish and with adequate trolley bays? (5 pts.)

4

4

4

5

• Were the windows and exterior clean and tidy? (5 pts.)

4

5

4

5

• Was the signage well presented and up to date? (5 pts.)

4

5

5

3

• Were there enough car parks? (5 pts.)

3

5

4

4

STORE INTERIOR

FC NW CD CD Waimauku Kumeu Westgate Lincoln Rd

• Were your first impressions positive?

(5 pts.)

4

5

4

5

• Was the floor clean and free of broken/damaged stock? (5 pts.)

5

5

5

5

• Adequately lighting/heating? (5 pts.)

3

5

2

5

• Instore signage clear adequate?

(5 pts.)

5

5

4

5

• Was there good visibility of promo/ seasonal products? (5 pts.)

4

5

5

3

• Was the floor free from unattended boxes/trolleys? (5 pts.)

4

5

5

4

• Were the fridges and freezers clean and tidy? (5 pts.)

5

4

5

5

COUNTDOWN, WESTGATE

Driving down the newly opened section of motorway I found out the hard way that you can’t turn off to Westgate and had to double round the heavily congested Lincoln Road. I eventually made it back and went into the Countdown. My immediate impression was that although the lighting was good the dark colour of the ceiling and lack of skylights gave an impression of dullness. This was not helped by having 20-30 neon lights out. Very poor really.

The standard of product in the fresh produce, deli and meat sections was good but the Red Cod looked old. I noticed the light bulbs had an excellent sign on the floor advising customers on what to look for when choosing a bulb. Very helpful. There was no wine or beer available as this supermarket is in the Waitakere Licensing Trust area.

COUNTDOWN, LINCOLN RD

Lastly it was back to Lincoln Road to the newly built Countdown that’s now competing with the Pak’nSave across the street.

The first thing I noticed was from the car and it was a Price Lockdown poster that featured the price, but I couldn’t tell what the product was because it was too small. Also, the Price Lockdown posters in the windows were partially obscured by the window louvres. A lovely bright well lit store and the fresh produce looked great. However, the Red Cod and Atlantic Salmon both looked old and dull. Some of the aisle end promo stock looked a bit messy but overall the products were

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STORE LAYOUT

FC NW CD CD Waimauku Kumeu Westgate Lincoln Rd

• Were the aisles wide enough?

(5 pts.)

3

5

5

5

• Were all shelf edge labels clearly visible? (5 pts.)

5

5

5

5

• Were all shelves clean, neat and tidy?

(5 pts.)

5

5

5

5

• Was there an adequate number of trolleys/baskets available? (5 pts.)

3

5

5

5

PRODUCTS

FC NW CD CD Waimauku Kumeu Westgate Lincoln Rd

• Was there a good range of products to choose from? (5 pts.)

3

4

4

5

• Was there full availability of products? (5 pts.)

3

4

3

5

• Was all product packaging in good condition? (5 pts.)

4

5

5

5

• Was there a good range of magazines and cards etc and were they tidy? (5 pts.)

5

5

5

5

• Were the batteries and general merchandise tidy? (5 pts.)

4

5

5

5

Kumeu took out the top spot this month, while regular lighting maintenance would have boosted Countdown Westgate’s score. well fronted with good signage. The freezer area was very clean and tidy with excellent presentation. Again this store was in the Waitakere Licensing Trust zone so had no wine or beer.

All stores were clean and tidy, with good lighting and well fronted product. Good signage for the most part, with excellent staff and facilities. You had to look hard to find fault. In a highly competitive market there is a very high standard of choice for the people of West Auckland.

STAFF

Sign up now for our weekly e-newsletter

www.supermarketnews.co.nz

FC NW CD CD Waimauku Kumeu Westgate Lincoln Rd

• Were all staff fully dressed in uniforms and name badges? (5 pts.)

5

5

4

5

• Were there adequate checkouts, considering the time of day? (5 pts.)

5

4

4

5

• Were you greeted in a friendly manner? (5 pts.)

5

4

5

5

• Were you served in a speedy and efficient manner? (5 pts.)

5

4

5

5

• Were you thanked for your transaction? (5 pts.)

5

4

5

5

FRESH FOOD

FC NW CD CD Waimauku Kumeu Westgate Lincoln Rd

• Did the produce look fresh?

PRODUCE (5 pts.)

5

3

5

5

FISH (5 pts.)

4

5

3

3

MEAT (5 pts.)

4

5

5

4

DELI (5 pts.)

4

5

5

4

BAKERY (5 pts.)

4

5

5

4

PRODUCE (5 pts.)

5

4

5

5

FISH (5 pts.)

4

5

4

4

MEAT (5 pts.)

4

5

5

4

DELI (5 pts.)

4

5

5

4

BAKERY (5 pts.)

4

5

5

4

• Was the Fish Counter staffed? (5 pts.) 5

5

5

5

• Was the Deli Counter staffed? (5 pts.) 5

5

5

5

• Was there a full range of produce?

• Was there anything or anyone who stood out? (5 pts.)

4 5 4 4

• Overall shopper experience (10 pts.) 7

HOW THEY SCORE?

9

8

8

FC NW CD CD Waimauku Kumeu Westgate Lincoln Rd

Maximum available score: 200 pts 168 188 181 182

TOP SCORE

CONTACT: Kevin and Peter at 09 274 9019 www.safconz.com September 2014

I 17

liquor THE PERFECT MATCH – EXCEPT IN SUPERMARKETS GROCERY MANAGER FOR FEDERAL TASKED with significantly growing Federal Merchants’ grocery business, Andy Hulse was appointed the company’s national key account manager for grocery just over a month ago. The experienced liquor marketer was previously at Mission Estate Winery for three years and has six years at Independent Liquor under his belt.

In his new role Hulse plans to consolidate Federal’s extensive portfolio of more than 90 brands, concentrating on building grocery distribution for the company’s core range of SKU’s. Encompassing both local and international brands, Federal’s range includes well-known labels Yeastie Boys, Yellow Tail, Wairau River, TeAwanga, Angostura and San Pellegrino.

Focused on improving the company’s head office relationships, Hulse is heading up a team of seven and says there is a lot of room for growth. “Federal’s large range of brands means there are plenty of opportunities to grow and improve the company’s presence in grocery and while there is a lot to accomplish, there is also a lot of potential,” says Hulse.

Hulse believes the increasing popularity of smaller boutique beer

brands like Yeastie Boys is unlikely to end anytime soon.

“The craft beer boom will continue much like the rise of cider which doesn’t seem to be slowing down. I think we’ll also see more craft beers moving towards the can format.”

Hulse says the other big trend at the moment - low alcohol wines – still only represents a small part of the market despite a significant amount of money being spent on promotional activity and R&D. “I can’t see low alcohol wines going very far but it is a nice idea. It definitely should be on the shelf but it is never going to replace traditional wines in terms of dollar value or volume.”

Hulse says greater clarification on the origin of grapes is needed, particularly as consumers often expect Kiwi wine labels will be using New Zealand grown grapes. “Kiwis need to support Kiwis and there needs to be more consumer education on where grapes are being sourced from.”

The new alcohol legislation is also going to make it harder for Kiwi liquor marketers, predicts Hulse. “The law changes has resulted in a lot of grey area about what you can and can’t do in terms of liquor promotions, it’s definitely not black and white.” n

REKORDERLIG ADDS TO RANGE ON the back of its successful launch into grocery earlier this year, Redwood Cellars has launched three new cider flavours from its Rekorderlig brand. Forest Berries, LemonLime, and Passionfruit-Lime will hit shelves early October, joining the brand’s existing variants Raspberry-Lime and Elderflower-Lime.

Rekorderlig is the number one cider brand in supermarkets by value, with a 17.7% share (Nielsen 20/07/14), and its Raspberry-Lime is currently the top-selling 500ml SKU in grocery, and second cider SKU overall. n

DB’S CITRUS HUGE GROWTH CIDER GRAPEFRUIT IN DRINKING FOLLOWING up on the success of its DB Export Citrus Lemon last summer, the brewer has come up with another product twist covering its export beer and 100% natural grapefruit juice. The new flavour to the line is brewed without additives or preservatives.

It is a 2% abv strength product. n

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THE number of cider drinkers in New Zealand has almost tripled since 2010 according to Roy Morgan Research. In 2010 only 168,000 Kiwis aged over 18 drank cider in an average four weeks – far fewer than the 607,000 drinking rtd alcopops. Now four years later, the research showed 501,000 cider drinkers had now overtaken the rtd drinkers (499,000) in an average four week period. n OWNED

Why beer and food matching is the new wine and cheese - except in supermarkets where it is illegal YOU would have to be living under a rock to have missed the emergence of the massive variety of beers that has exploded in recent years. From prosumer home brew kits, to micro breweries, contract brewers and the bigger boys, New Zealanders are spoilt for choice in a country that now has 75 breweries (and growing).

We are also home to world famous malts and hops - in fact 86% of NZ hops were exported in 2013 (with half of those going to the United States). Beer directly contributes in excess of $700million each year to New Zealand’s GDP with the total value chain from grain to glass worth $2.2billion. The beer retail value chain alone approached $1billion in 2013.

This revitalisation is not solely about the liquid – beer and food matching has finally started to challenge the space once thought the sole domain of wine and evolve past beer-battered fries. With arguably much greater variety, beer is rivalling wine for culinary companionship. The sommeliers at top global restaurant elBulli have collaborated with the brewers of Estrella Damm to create the limited release “Inedit” especially for pairing with haute cuisine. More locally, grape vs grain tasting evenings have sprung up in local bars and restaurants all around the country to try to determine which is the superior match.

Monteith’s Wild Food Challenge is New Zealand’s longest running beer and food matching challenge and is now in its 17th year. Serving a feast of flavours for all those who have a hunger to dine on the wild side, the nation’s most adventurous chefs have created dishes that showcase the best of local, wild ingredients and perfectly paired them with a Monteith’s beer or cider.

When you get inside a supermarket however, ironically the gastronomic matching stops and food is banned to the other side of the room. Under the new liquor laws, supermarkets now need to ensure alcohol is not prominent on the main pedestrian route in or out of the store. Once in the alcohol area (akin to the area where they keep the naughty videos at the video store), there is actually a requirement to stock no products there other than alcohol.

The logic is supposedly that if you have non-alcohol products in the alcohol area, and a ban on promoting alcohol within the rest of the store, cynical store managers could advertise great promotions on the non-alcohol products to lure you into the alcohol area. Once there, you would no doubt give in to

temptation and purchase a bottle of Monteith’s Velvet Stout when you simply wanted a packet of cheap biltong. What is cynical is presuming we are all so weak minded that the mere threat of this fictitious scenario is thought serious enough to justify preventing stores from being able to promote or display beer with food – the very thing that is near mandated in almost all other situations!

“With arguably much greater variety, beer is rivalling wine for culinary companionship.”

C

M

The other question that often comes up in this context is - why can supermarkets sell beer, cider and wine but not spirits? The technical answer is that it is a mandatory condition of their liquor licences under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, but there are many good reasons for preferring fermented alcoholic beverages (beer, cider or wine) over distilled spirits.

For one, fermented beverages (particularly beer and cider) tend to be lower in alcohol than distilled beverages and typically contain many nutrients whereas spirits tend to be empty calories (high in calories but without any nutritional value).

As mentioned above, fermented beverages tend to be enjoyed with food, whereas spirits are more commonly drunk without food.

I don’t think the lawmakers necessarily had this in mind but, in the New Zealand context, fermented beverages are also typically produced locally whereas most of our distilled spirits come from offshore.

The links to food and enjoyment at home with friends and family as part of a normal routine all reinforce the thinking that fermented beverages should be able to be purchased with your groceries.

Matching a great beer, wine or cider with great food should be part of this, but sadly for now this is offlimits for supermarkets. n

Matt Wilson Corporate Relations Manager DB Breweries Limited

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h&baisle OIL JOINS SKINFOOD RANGE

SKINFOOD has added to its skincare line, launching Certified Organic Rosehip Oil in a 25ml container. Suitable for all skin types, Skinfood’s new product contains potent natural actives, powerful antioxidants and is rich in essential fatty acids. Rosehip Oil is an effective treatment for scars, stretch marks, fine lines and dehydrated skin showing signs of aging.

NEW SKINCARE BRAND

L’OREAL has increased its skincare offering with the introduction of the Skin Perfection brand. Encompassing a Correcting Day Moisturiser, Concentrated Correcting Serum and Magic Touch Instant Blur, the Skin Perfection line features eye-catching packaging for great stand-out on shelf. Correcting Day Moisturiser works to improve the appearance of skin quality by locking in moisture for up to 24 hours while Concentrated Correcting Serum uses a powerful formula to penetrate through the skin’s epidermis layers and refine skin texture. Enriched with Optical Blur Polymers, the brand’s Magic Touch Instant Blur enhances natural skin tone by blurring the appearance of shine, pores and irregularities for a soft-focus finish. Magic Touch Instant Blur can be used as a base for make-up or its tinted formula can provide additional natural coverage.

ULTRA BRIGHT’S NEW HAIR COLOURS

HENKEL’S Schwarzkopf brand has launched two new additions to its popular Live Colour Ultra Bright’s hair colour range. Raspberry Rebel and Pillar Box Red contain no ammonia or peroxide, making them ideal for first time hair colour users, and wash out in 6-8 washes. The new products feature an innovative Pro Vitamin B5 formula for

deep conditioning and luminous shine. “Bright pops of striking colour continue to be a huge trend and Ultra Bright’s delivers maximum intensity and vibrancy, while also conditioning the hair,” says Schwarzkopf national educator, Grant Withnell. The new colours join the brand’s existing Ultra Bright products Magnetic Purple, Shocking Pink and Electric Blue.

NEW ANZ ROLE FOR JOHNSON

WAYNE Johnson, Schwarzkopf’s General Manager New Zealand Retail has been appointed General Manager Australia & New Zealand Retail, following Stefan Mund’s move to North America. Effective immediately, Johnson’s extensive multinational FMCG expertise makes him the ideal person to lead both countries into future growth. Johnson will continue to focus on building collaborative relationships with existing customers and creating sustainable new channels.

BB CREAM FOR HAIR

SCHWARZKOPF, New Zealand’s number one brand in hair treatments, has added to its Extra Care line, launching Beauty Balm Hair Beautifier alongside its Hair Refill range (Aztec MAT 13/07/2014). Schwarzkopf’s 11-in-1 Beauty Balm for hair combines the benefits of care and styling in one lightweight, easily absorbed leave-in product. The all-in-one hair beauty solution offers users 11 benefits including anti-breakage, split end protection, frizz control, moisture sealing and immediate detangling. Designed for aged, thinning and weak hair, Extra Care’s Hair Refill range contains hyaluron complex for intensive regeneration. Featuring a shampoo, conditioner and hairfilling serum, Hair Refill works to strengthen hair and leave it visibly fuller.

REPAIR & PROTECT TOOTHPASTE

GSK New Zealand has launched Sensodyne Repair & Protect toothpaste in Original, Extra Fresh and Whitening variants. The daily fluoride toothpaste contains NovaMin – a calcium phosphate technology which works to relieve and repair sensitive areas of the teeth by building a protective mineral layer over sensitive areas. GSK is supporting the launch with $1.8m in marketing support across digital, TV, in-store sampling and POS material.

NEW SCULPT LINES

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FOR the first time in a decade, Horley’s Sculpt brand has introduced two new formulations specifically designed to deliver on consumer trends. Offered in Superfruits + Pomegranate and Dark Vanilla + Raw Cacao options, Sculpt Supernaturals use grass fed NZ whey protein and contain no artificial flavours, colours or sweeteners. Sculpt Supernaturals are sold in 400g tubs, complementing the existing Sculpt range with a pure protein alternative for women seeking weight management solutions. n

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icecream&desserts ICE cream is one of the most innovative and competitive retail categories in New Zealand and along with edible ices accounts for $1 of every $44 spent on food. As one of the biggest consumers of ice cream in the world, Kiwis devour 23 litres per capita per year, ahead of both Australia and the USA. The high standard of our ice cream means local manufacturers also have a significant presence in international markets, exporting around 9,000 tonnes worth $41 million every year.

TIP TOP’S NEW ADDITIONS

TIP Top has been making ice cream in New Zealand for over 75 years, producing well known Kiwi brands Choc Bar, Jelly Tip, Popsicle, Fruju, Trumpet, Memphis Meltdown and Kapiti. Leading the $170 million category, Tip Top has 53% MAT value share of total key accounts as well as a 67% MAT value share in route (20/7/14). Driving new news in the category, the manufacturer has launched three new products from its Kapiti and Tip Top brands with more launches scheduled for next month.

Kapiti has released a Caramel & Milk Chocolate variant in single stick and multipack options while Tip Top has added Hot Chocolate and Passionfruit Ripple to its two litre tub offering.

Tip Top category manager Lauren Sun says Kapiti’s new addition, which combines crème fraiche ice cream with spiced ginger caramel and milk chocolate, responds to the growing consumer trend for sensory and indulgence.

“We are continuing to innovate with unique flavour combinations and are extending Kapiti beyond fruit to deliver towards a more indulgent dessert occasion. Strong double digit growth is currently being seen within super premium take home and multipack growth is also accelerating in the latest quarter to 4%, driven through indulgent and everyday multipacks,” says Sun Tip Top has the top 10 SKUs within the 2L tub range and expects its new Passionfruit Ripple will be well received by consumers with the flavour already one of the brand’s top 10 scoop options.

Sun says there is a growing consumer trend towards health and wellness, with Tip Top responding to the demand by replacing all artificial colours and flavours in its recipes with natural alternatives last year. The recipe overhaul has not affected taste and flavour, picking up five gold and six silvers at the 2014 NZ Ice Cream Awards.

“The journey towards natural colours and flavours has been the biggest innovation introduced into the category and sets Tip Top apart from the competition. Furthermore, Tip Top will have no palm oil by the end of the year,” says Sun. n

HANSELLS GROWS AHEAD OF CATEGORY

IN the $49 million shelf stable desserts category, Hansells has the Aunt Betty’s range of steamed puddings and creamy rice products as well as homemade yoghurt and dessert mixes under its Hansells brand. Worth $6.9 million, Aunt Betty’s is the number one label in the ready to eat desserts segment and number two in total shelf stable desserts. Growing ahead of both ready to eat and total shelf stable desserts, Aunt Betty’s is driving category growth at 9.6%. The brand has recently added to its offering, launching creamy rice snack packs.

Ideal for lunchboxes, the new addition is already showing incremental growth and is expected to add $500,000 to the category in its first year. Hansells’ senior brand manager, Susan Harvey, says consumers are continuing to look for convenience and indulgence.

“The ready to eat segments in the category are in growth while all others (aside from homemade yoghurt) are in decline, showing that consumers are

BULLA BUILDS RANGE

BULLA Dairy Foods is one of Australia’s oldest family-owned dairy companies and has been manufacturing quality dairy products across the ditch for six generations. In the frozen category, Bulla’s everyday multipack products have been gaining market share with its range including Crunch, Splits, Coconut Ice, 100&1000’s and Frozen Yoghurt variants. The company is building on its Kiwi offering, recently launching Lamington and Coconut Frozen Yoghurt multipack options. Made with the brand’s traditional vanilla ice cream before being dipped in chocolate ice cream and sprinkled with coconut pieces, Bulla’s Lamington variant is sold in packs of eight and is set to be a family favourite.

The brand is also tapping into the popular coconut trend with its new Coconut Flavoured Frozen Yoghurt being offered in mango, lime and pineapple flavours. Featuring a creamy coconut centre and tropical fruit frozen yoghurt shell, Bulla’s new addition is 97% fat free, gluten free and contains no artificial colours or flavours.

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Nick Hickford, Bulla’s general manager of sales, marketing and innovation, says consumers are changing the way they purchase and enjoy ice cream and Bulla is adapting to meet this change in habit. “Recent shopper insights have outlined consumer needs for new sweet snacking formats. Sweet treat favourites are often associated with treasured memories that are steeped in emotion; however the ice cream category is currently seen as not creating the childhood memories of the future. Shoppers are also demanding more fun and excitement in ice cream multipacks.”

Hickford says future category growth is likely to come from a balance of classic and new products. “Our focus is on creating products that everyone can enjoy – keeping consumers happy with their traditional favourites while exciting them with new combinations.” Sales to independents and Foodstuffs is handed

by Strikeforce. n

looking for convenience when looking for their desserts,” says Harvey.

With a 30% share of total shelf stable desserts, homemade yoghurt is worth $14.9 million. Hansells Yoghurt is driving growth in this segment, growing at 19.8% while its Thick & Creamy range is increasing at 27%, well ahead of category growth of 1.3%. Hansells has increased its homemade yoghurt offering, launching an all natural range targeted at children. Available in Chocolate, Strawberry and Apple & Pear variants, Hansells Kids Yoghurt range contains probiotics Acidophilus and Bifidus, vitamins A and D as well as protein for growth and development. n

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TRY OUR NEWEST ADDITIONS TO THE BULLA FAMILY.

✔ MADE WITH FRESH MILK & CREAM ✔ NO ARTIFICIAL FLAVOURS

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September 2014

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icecream&desserts TOTAL SUPERMARKETS - CURR MAT W/E 10/08/2014

VAL SALES

VAL % CHG YA

UNIT SALES

UNIT % CHG YA

-0.6% -3.2% 1.1% 14.8% -10.4% -20.8%

30,624,895 14,563,916 10,960,911 2,056,438 2,657,976 385,654

-1.9% -4.3% 0.6% 12.8% -5.3% -20.2%

VAL SALES

VAL % CHG YA

UNIT SALES

UNIT % CHG YA

$30,743,017 $13,385,186 $11,244,301 $1,210,598 $1,158,293 $170,953

-0.5% 0.6% -3.5% -5.2% 4.2% -16.2%

5,991,028 2,201,465 2,182,921 216,279 188,577 24,788

2.5% 5.3% -1.6% -5.2% 6.6% -16.4%

T. Total Ice Cream $170,274,219 T. Ice Cream - Take Home Standard $74,415,793 T. Ice Cream - Family Packs $70,044,632 T. Ice Cream - Take Home Premium $16,572,126 T. Ice Cream - Novelty/Singles $7,091,983 T. Frozen Yoghurt $2,149,686

T. Total Frozen Desserts Party T. Frozen Dairy Desserts T. Frozen Pastry Desserts T. Frozen/Chilled Cakes T. Frozen Fruit Juices T. Cookie Batters

Source: Nielsen NZ Scantrack

DELMAINE SEES GROWTH DELMAINE Fine Foods produces a range of traditionally made dessert toppings in four flavours – chocolate, caramel, sticky date and passionfruit.

The brand’s chocolate variant is a thick fudge style while its caramel option is made with real butter for a genuine cream caramel taste and texture. Sticky date is a unique flavour offering while its passionfruit product is made from real passionfruit

pulp. Delmaine’s products have been growing year-on-year and have done so for the past three years. The company’s group product manager, Micheal Bennett, says the overall category is not in huge growth when compared with last year and maple syrup remains the most popular.

“The top 30 lines make up 91% of the share. Maple Syrup is the dominant flavour still with the top three lines all maple products and 35% of sales,” says Bennett. n

SMOOTHIES TO BOOST FROZEN BERRY SALES NEW Zealand frozen fruit producer, Sujon Berries, is responding to the growing demand for berry-based ready to mix smoothies, offering 21 different berry-fruit and smoothie pre-mix packs in its SKU range. The well-known Nelson based company has collaborated with the UK’s prestigious Sports Nutrition Department at Chichester University with research conducted proving the brand’s sports-powder supplement works to reduce the lactate build up in muscle tissue of athletes. Sujon’s director of sales and marketing, Michelle Manson, says the new research is more than just a sport-supplement story.

“We see the frozen berry-fruit category in New Zealand supermarkets as benefitting directly from the sportspowder publicity as Sujon frozen blackcurrants offer the same benefits as the natural blackcurrant supplement used in the clinical trials. Our own promotional material will always create the link between the two, the powder and the frozen berries, advantaging our supermarket partners,” says Manson.

Sujon pioneered the introduction of frozen blackcurrants in Kiwi supermarkets back in the 1980’s and currently supplies stores with a range of frozen berries. n

NEW STREETS SKU’S IN the ice cream and refreshment categories, Unilever’s Streets label has an extensive product offering incorporating the Magnum, Paddle Pop, Calippo, Bubble O’Bill and Cornetto sub-brands. This month, Streets has introduced the new brand Fruttare to the Kiwi market in a bid to revive the declining refreshment segment. A blend of fruit chunks in a frozen fruit smoothie, Fruttare is available in banana, strawberry and coconut variants. Cameron McRae, Unilever’s assistant category manager for refreshment, says Fruttare responds to the high demand for refreshment SKUs in summer and fits with the Kiwi palette.

“Fruttare has been consumer tested and has the highest repeat rate of any Streets ice cream product launched in ANZ. With $3m of above the line support, we are very excited for the much needed boost this brand will give to the refreshment

segment,” says McRae. With innovation being a major growth driver for ice cream, Magnum is growing ahead of the total category, adding over one million of dollar growth to NZ grocery on the back of successful new product launches (MAT 06/07/14). Celebrating its 25th birthday this year, the brand has launched Magnum Silver, a salted caramel variant, being supported by a TVC, PR campaign and POS displays.

Unilever is also adding to its kids offering with well-known brand Paddle Pop leveraging both global and regional product innovation to launch two new SKU’s. Water ices Funny Finger and Dragon Popper contain no artificial colours or flavours and less than one gram of saturated fat per serving, making them ideal for family shoppers looking for a refreshing treat for kids. Paddle Pop is also running its successful Lick-a-Prize promotion in grocery this year – a first for the brand. n

NEW USAGE OCCASIONS IN New Zealand, Wilson Consumer handles the Hershey’s range of dessert toppings which encompasses Shell Topping, Hot Fudge and Caramel Topping. The company also distributes Hershey’s syrup which has traditionally been used in desserts but has recently found a growing niche as a base for chocolate drinks.

“As the syrup offers an easy to

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mix decadent hot chocolate drink, a number of New Zealand’s top cafe’s and restaurants have started to use the syrup as the base for their hot chocolate drinks,” says Wilson Consumer’s confectionery business manager David Cunningham.

Following the growth in sales over recent months, Cunningham believes there is further opportunity to grow Hershey’s syrup by reducing the price and capitalising on new usage occasions. “This will help make the syrup more accessible

for more consumers, allowing them to experiment with the many uses and recipes,” he says.

Cunningham predicts the growing interest in desserts will continue as consumers increasing look for ‘inhome’ cooking options.

“Like anything at the moment, consumers are looking for value and quality within the segment. Hershey’s continues to deliver consistently strong value for money, and with the price reduction of the syrup we believe Hershey’s will continue to drive sales in this segment,” says Cunningham. n

NEW LISA’S EXTEND OFFER

PREMIUM COFFEE CAPSULES

LHF is introducing three new products to its Lisa’s hummus and dip portfolio. Basil Pesto Hummus with Parmesan & Baby Spinach joins the brand’s flavoured hummus range while Preserved Lemon Hummus with Sesame, Pistachio & Avocado Oil is new to Lisa’s toppings line. Both variants are offered in 200g tubs and use fresh New Zealand herbs which are picked and delivered daily. The brand has also added to its triple dip range with Beetroot, Cream Cheese & Basil Pesto set to hit shelves. n

ALCOHOL AVOCADO OIL producer The Village Press has ALTERNATIVE OIL released New Zealand Cold Press THE Better Drinks Co has launched a new premium take-home variant from its Phoenix Organics sparkling range. Ideal as an alternative to wine, Sparkling Organic Grape features hints of honey and kiwifruit and is free from artificial or genetically modified ingredients. Available in a 725ml bottle, Phoenix’s new sparkling also boasts a lower sugar content than its competitors. n

MUESLI ADDITION

Avocado Oil in a convenient 500ml bottle. The versatile new product is ideal for use in dressings, drizzled over dishes and its high smoke point means it is also suitable for cooking. Line priced with the brand’s existing 500ml olive oil range, The Village Press is aiming to grow total avocado oil consumption, trading consumers up from lower value segments. Its Cold Press Avocado Oil is cholesterol free and a good source of vitamin E. n

NEW PACKS FOR ASIAN SAUCES

EYE-catching new packaging has rolled out across Sanitarium’s muesli offering, coinciding with the launch of a new variant. Berry & Ancient Grains Toasted Muesli is high in fibre, low in sodium and a good source of protein.

A blend of strawberries, cranberries and nutritious ancient grains, the brand’s new muesli is on trend with the current worldwide interest in ancient grains. n

TIC TAC FLAVOURS

ACTON International Marketing’s popular Lee Kum Kee sauce range now features updated new packaging. The new designs help distinguish the different products on shelf and include images of dishes the sauces can make. The Lee Kum Kee offering includes Hoisin, Pure Sesame Oil and Char Siu sauce. n

ICONIC confectionery brand Tic Tac has added to its fresh mint range with two new limited edition flavours. Frosty Mint combines mint and peppermint while Mojito Mint features mint and lime flavours. Sold in New Zealand since 1987, Tic Tac is being handled locally by DKSH Services. n

SAVOUR QUICK CUP

ORIENTAL Merchants has launched a vegetable variant from its Savour Quick Cup brand.

Containing dehydrated vegetables and seasoning, the instant noodles are packed in a plastic cup with its plastic lid retaining steam for quick cooking. The new vegetable flavour joins the brand’s existing chicken product with both variants being halal and ideal for consumers with certain dietary needs. n

FOLLOWING the successful launch of L’OR Espresso coffee capsules earlier this year, D.E Masterblenders has introduced the superpremium L’OR Onyx.

The powerfully dark and complex espresso is made with high quality beans, roasted at intense heat and then finely ground.

L’OR Onyx is already a top selling variant in Australia, contributing 16.4% incremental sales to the capsule market and is compatible with Nespresso coffee machines. n

TE HORO REBRANDS

TE Horo Foods has launched innovative new look packaging across its range of award-winning jams and marmalades. The retro looking new packs reflect the handmade values of Te Horo with international illustrator Evan Purdie commissioned to hand paint the brand’s labels. The Kapiti Coast based company has also shown its commitment to local growers, using the packaging change to make it clear to consumers where its fruit is source from. “We have always been committed to both a handmade product and 100% New Zealand grown fruit – this new exciting packaging reflects those values really well,” says Te Horo founder Tim Gibbs. n

CLUSTERS JOIN CHOC RANGE

PROLIFE’S Donovans label has added to its premium pouch offering with the launch of milk chocolate clusters in Hokey Pokey, Ultimate Peanut and Wild Berry Crunch variants. Designed for sharing, the new additions are available in150g resealable pouches. n

NEW CHILLI SAUCES TO celebrate its 25th birthday, artisan manufacturer Wild Appetite has introduced a new range of chilli sauces with novelty wick.

Available in Hot As, Wild As and Sweet As options, Wild Appetite’s new products can be used as a marinade, dip, condiment or stir-through sauce. The range is being offered to grocery in 250ml bottles. n

NEW COOKIE POS

MOLLY Woppy has unveiled new counter top POS displays for its range of individually wrapped cookies. The stylish and convenient displays are available in a variety of colours for the seven cookie variants. n

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NEW BRAZILIAN COXINHA

TRADITIONAL Brazilian Foods has added Brazil’s most popular savoury, Chicken Delights, to its grocery offering.

Known as Coxinha (pronounced Ko-Sheen-Ya) in Brazil, the crispy savoury product contains soft shredded creamy chicken surrounded by a soft and buttery dough and has been well received by Kiwi consumers. n

NEW UP&GO

SANITARIUM has added to its market leading brand Up&Go with the launch of a caramel variant in 250ml, 3x250ml and 6x250ml packs.

Since creating the liquid breakfast segment, Sanitarium has continued to build its convenient on-the-go breakfast offering, which is currently experiencing double digit growth (Aztec MAT 27/07/2014). n

NEW OLIVE OIL

FRAGATA is a newcomer to the New Zealand olive oil market, offering three top quality products at a competitive retail price point and store margin. The Spanish brand’s Pure Olive Oil is available in 750ml and 2Ltr options while its Extra Virgin Olive Oil is sold in a 750ml bottle. Imported by Real Foods Ltd, Fragata has been producing quality products in the Mediterranean for more than 100 years and has a long heritage of supplying olives to the New Zealand market. n

EURODELL ADDS LINES

IMPORTER Eurodell has introduced a range of new products this month including an antipasto offering, a line of authentic Thai sauces and a Croatian beer. Available in Italian Vegetable Mix, Diablo Mix and Harissa Split, the Pronto E Fresco Antipasto range is sold in 1kg tubs and has a 70 day shelf life. The Megachef range of premium Thai sauces has been specifically designed for the western palate and is offered in oyster, fish and soy variants. The gluten-free sauce line is made with natural colours and flavours and contains no MSG or HVP. Also new to Eurodell’s portfolio is Croatia’s oldest and number one beer, Ožujsko. n

UNIQUE RANGE EXTENTION

GDLbrands is introducing two innovative new flavours to its Jolly Time microwave pop corn range. Healthy Pop Caramel Apple and Mallow Magic have joined the international brand’s existing multipack flavours Blast O Butter and Healthy Pop Butter. Jolly Time’s new additions are unique popcorn variants in New Zealand and are price competitive while offering attractive margins for retailers. n

NEW LOOK FOR INDOMIE NOODLES

INDOMIE’S Cup Noodles have received a packaging makeover with the new designs making it easier for consumers to identify the three different variants. The new look packs provide great standout on shelf with the Mi Goreng option featuring red packaging while the brand’s Satay variant can be identified by its brown pack and BBQ Chicken is sold in blue.

Indomie’s instant noodle range is represented in New Zealand

by Acton International Marketing. n

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CHOC PEPPERMINT FOLLOWING a successful run as a limited edition one pound gift box, Prolife’s Donovans brand has reintroduced its Dark Chocolate Peppermint Delight as a permanent addition to its 170g pouch range. Featuring a peppermint jelly centre coated in 60% dark chocolate, the new product joins the brand’s existing premium pouch offering which includes Milk Chocolate Turkish Delight, Dark Chocolate Covered Ginger and Dark Chocolate Caramels. n

NEW CEREAL PRODUCTS SEAFOOD MOUSSE SPECIALIST pâté producer Genevieve’s has added to its offering, releasing a range of Seafood Mousse in Prawn, Scallop and Oyster flavours.

The new products are handmade in small batches before being twice baked for a lengthy shelf life.

Branded in blue rather than Genevieve’s traditional green packaging, the brand’s Seafood Mousse range contains no preservatives or additives. n

EXOTIC’S NATURAL WATER OFFERING

ENSO has introduced a range of Goji, Aloe and Coco Water from its Exotic label. Made with all natural ingredients, the brand’s Goji Water is offered in two variants – Goji Berry with Apple and Goji Berry with Tropical Fruits – and contains no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives. Exotic’s Coco Water responds to the growing demand for coconut water and is sold in Pure Coconut Water, Coconut Water & Mango and Coconut Water & Pineapple options.

High in vitamin C and E, the brand’s Aloe Water line is gluten free and is being offered in Natural, Cherry, Pineapple and Mixed Fruit variants. n

CEREAL manufacturer Sanitarium has introduced Golden Almond Crunch to its Light’n’Tasty range.

A blend of flakes, almonds and coconut clusters, the newest addition contains four essential vitamins.

Following the success of its 700g Vanilla Almond Cluster Crisp, Sanitarium has also launched its Cluster Crisp Triple Berry in the larger 700g format which is expected to be popular with families. n

THAI PRODUCTS HIT SHELVES ENSO has launched a range of authentic Thai products under the Exotic Food brand. The extensive offering includes curry pastes, stir-fry sauces, noodles, coconut milk and meal kits. Designed for the Kiwi palate, the Exotic Food range is an ideal addition to meat, fish, seafood and vegetable dishes. n

ABE’S SLICED BAGELS RESPONDING to consumer demand, Abe’s Bagels is now pre-slicing its bagel offering. The brand is using a unique formulation to preserve shelf life while giving consumers the added convenience of pre-sliced bagels. Abe’s marketing

manager, Melanie Kyle, says its presliced bagels are now easier to cook straight from the freezer and are ideal for kids. “It’s a great initiative for us, we turned 18 this year and wanted to say thank you to our loyal following,” says Kyle. n

MARVELLOUS NEW FLAVOURS & FORMAT MONDELEZ’S Marvellous Creations has launched five new carnival inspired flavours and rolled out a packaging update, driving new news and innovation within the $7.3 million brand. Three new 270g blocks have been introduced in Cola Popping Candy Fizzy Crunch, Toffee Apple Chew and Orange Chew Fizzy Crunch variants with the Cola and Orange options also offered in 45g bars, encouraging trial and

capitalizing on impulsive purchases.

This month, Marvellous Creations has also unveiled two new products in a bite sized format. Ideal for snacking and sharing, the Jelly Zingers product is being joined by Toffee Nutters for a limited time.

Mondelez will be supporting its new products with a through the line campaign with TV, social media, sampling and in-store displays commencing mid month. n

LIPTON’S SPECIALTY BLENDS UNILEVER’S Lipton brand has introduced a range of affordable specialty teas in New Zealand called Yellow Label Tea. Available in Classic, English Breakfast and Earl Grey variants, the new line uses patented technology to deliver teas that are superior in quality, flavour and aroma. Lipton’s natural teas are being offered in 200g packs of 100 tagged tea bags as well as 10 tea bags boxes. n

ALMOND & COCONUT MILK

SANITARIUM has increased its non-dairy milk offering, launching Almond & Coconut Milk Unsweetened from its So Good brand. The new product combines the mild nuttiness of almonds with the refreshing taste of coconut and is a source of calcium and vitamin E while also being gluten, dairy and cholesterol free. n September 2014

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productwatch

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Contact: SIMON YANDALL, National Sales Manager Ph : +64 21 655 138

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Leading on from the success of our Coconut Water H2COCO has released our very own Cold Pressed Organic

“Berries at their best!”

H2COCO Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is amazingly versatile.

ALWAYS INSIST ON SUJON Trade enquiries to Michelle Manson Tel 0800 4SUJON Email info@sujon.co.nz or for recipes and berryfruit information, visit www.sujon.co.nz

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Eat 1 teaspoon a day, Drink it in a smoothie, Cook with it, Spread it on your toast, Feel it on your skin.

Contact: Shay Narsey shay@H2coconut.com or 021 274 2910

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ORIENTAL MERCHANT (NZ) LTD Tel 0800 10 33 05 Fax 0800 10 33 11 Email: nzenquiries@oriental.com.au Website: www.oriental.com.au

Call 0800 467 539 for more info

Price Breakthrough on The Village Press avocado oil Taking the market by storm is the 500ml bottle of Village Press avocado oil. With a smooth flavour and excellent value for money this oil is favoured

by Avocado Ambassador and MasterChef Nadia Lim. a smooth buttery flavour it’s delicious “inWithdressings and drizzled over dishes for a

”

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finishing touch and it’s high smoke point means it’s also ideal to cook with

MasterChef, Dietitian & Avocado Ambassador

Call us now to see what the fuss is all about.

Anstiss Sales & Marketing, Tel: (09) 360 6160 or The Village Press, Tel: (021) 633 101 September 2014

I 29

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE GOOD AND THE BEST

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AROUND New Zealand, there are hundreds of small producers in a wide variety of grocery categories who began, and often continue, their lives in the variety of markets that have sprung up. A number, with more marketing skills, have moved their limited production levels into local grocery and delicatessen outlets. And some of those will eventually develop into national products on a small scale until they get the financial backing and sales skills to take the items further. For grocery, they are another opportunity.

SARAH’S CORNISH PASTIES

WEST COAST COCOA MERCHANTS

OFFICIALLY launched at the Auckland Food Show, West Coast Cocoa Merchants produce a range of hand blended hot chocolate and chai beverages.

Available in 250g, 500g and 2kg packs, West Coast’s premium product range encompasses Hot Chocolate Deluxe, Hot Chocolate Peppermint, Hot Chocolate Mayan Chilli, Spiced Chai, Vanilla Chai and Baking Cocoa. Manufactured in New Plymouth, the brand’s hot chocolate and chai is hand blended in small batches to ensure consistency and quality before being prepared by hand and packaged carefully.

Co-owned by Craig Macfarlane, Karla Gichard and Paul Newbold, the trio has more than 40 years combined experience in the hospitality industry. Identifying a gap in the market for a premium luxury beverage range, the founders enlisted the help of a food technologist with specialist experience in powdered foods to develop the West Coast offering. Since its launch the brand has resonated with both trade and consumers, with respected food writer Lauraine Jacobs naming it as her pick for ‘Best in Show’ at the popular Auckland Food Show.

“One of our core values is to act responsibly and with integrity so our customers can feel good about indulging in our cocoa and chai drinks. We source our cocoa through the UTZ certified cocoa programme and the ‘dutched’ cocoa process helps highlight the depth in flavour and lowers the acidity, increasing solubility in the cup,” says Karla Gichard.

West Coast is hoping to gain traction within specialist food stores and supermarkets stocking an extensive range of premium products. Gichard believes the rise of artisan products landing on our shelves is being driven by a focus on local and sustainable produce.

“It’s about the whole experience - our customers want to know about the people producing the hot chocolate or chai, and where the product comes from, with real ingredients that people can understand – not just a list of numbers. To some extent, there’s a backlash against mass production, particularly as peoples’ lives become increasingly busy,” she says.

The company is currently working with a distributor in London, which may see West Coast supply independent cafes in the UK. For more information on West Coast Cocoa Merchants please visit www.westcoastcocoa.com.

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SARAH’S Cornish Pasties was established more than five years ago by English expats Sarah and John Stacey. Manufacturing a range of traditional handmade Cornish Pasties, Eccles cakes, free range pork sausage rolls and slices, the company has recently been purchased by Devon born Alan Trevan. Alan and his wife Dolores have strong food industry backgrounds and are looking to grow and evolve the business through both the retail and foodservice channels. Sarah’s Cornish Pasties is already gaining traction in the retail sector with its Eccles cakes being stocked by Farro Fresh and Moore Wilson. Produced in the company’s catering kitchen in Papakura, ingredients are sourced from local Kiwi suppliers, achieving fresh and authentic flavours.

The brand’s Eccles cakes have a shelf life of two weeks while its pasties can be chilled for 14 days or frozen for up to three months.

“Our customer feedback tells us that we are really producing the genuine article when it comes to our products compared to what some have said are poor copies that they have purchased. This is something we pride ourselves on and we will continue to use these same recipes,” says Alan. Alan attributes the increase in boutique products on supermarket shelves to the public’s growing awareness of artisanal products. “I think it is partly due to the public attitude maturing to the fact that there is a whole new world out there of different tastes and styles of food available and they want to try them. The growth of markets and events means there is a lot more exposure for the ‘little guy’ to get his product out there.”

For more information please visit www.sarahscornishpasties.co.nz

OLIVES ON THE HILL OLIVES On The Hill is a 100% Kiwi owned, family operated business producing a range of single varietal and blended pure extra virgin olive oils. Founded by Chris and Linda Smith in 2012, the duo decided to enter the food industry after a bike ride through an abandoned grove of olive trees near Mangawhai Heads, north of Auckland. Currently producing Frantoio, Ascolano and Leccino olive oil varieties, the brand’s olives are grown on-site before being harvested and cold pressed off-site within 24 hours of picking, ensuring oil quality is preserved. Available in a range of sizes including 250ml and 500ml bottles, Olives On The Hill is one of the only olive oil producers offering a three litre box and bladder format.

“Similar to a cask wine box, the bladder protects the oil from air and light exposure giving it a longer shelf life. The stylish convenient box provides an easy and cost effective solution for the discerning olive oil user,” says the company’s Neil Smith. Smith says its Ascolano pure extra virgin olive oil is a best seller for the brand with its grassy flavour and peppery finish making it an ideal accompaniment for a wide range of dishes. “Our range clearly differentiates the distinctive varieties of olive and showcases their individual flavour characteristics. Each variety of olive has its own positive attributes for oil production and the blending of different varieties can bring out the best in each of them,” he says. While not currently stocked in grocery, Smith says the company is working hard to increase production and grow its brand while ensuring the quality of its extra virgin olive oil is maintained. “Whilst we will continue to market our single variety extra virgin olive oil as our main offering, we expect to extend our range to include an infused oil and are experimenting with a secret recipe tapenade for the future.”

Smith says the growing interest in artisanal products is due to an increased focus on healthy eating. “Sourcing locally produced food is a growing trend and the story behind the food is becoming more important.”

For more information please visit www.olivesonthehill.co.nz

BUSINESSFUEL: A TOTAL SOLUTION WRAPPING on deck full time in order to get the job done,” says Greentree.

UP 2014 OR BusinessFuel’s contractors are predominately female with extensive KICKING FMCG experience but are juggling the demands of family life with OFF 2015? employment. Greentree says ESTABLISHED in October last year, BusinessFuel provides a variety of services for the FMCG sector including account management, trade marketing, analysis and training.

Headed by directors Lisa Beuvink and Anna Greentree, BusinessFuel also offers recruitment, outsourcing its team of 11 experienced professionals to fill short term contract positions.

Greentree says the non-permanent role is an emerging global trend which is already prevalent in the UK. “Temporary and non-permanent roles are an untapped resource in New Zealand and there needs to be a shift in the mindset of Kiwi businesses that you don’t have to have someone

temporary staff allow businesses to reduce employment costs and line management requirements while giving them access to skilled professionals.

Beuvink says the company provides a total in-house solution and is seeing good growth from its space management offering.

“Many companies don’t have the resources to handle space management internally. The software is costly and you need to have the knowledge and understanding of information behind it to drive the value of the category,” says Beuvink.

As a business services company, BusinessFuel has the flexibility to cater to large and small projects to help optimize businesses. n

CORPORATE entertainment company ConArtists has been hosting innovative teambuilding events, award shows and memorable product launches for the likes of Coca-Cola, Fonterra, Foodstuffs, Nestle and Goodman Fielder for more than 25 years. Run by five creative directors and more than 20 actors, the ConArtists team has a broad skill set, specialises in improvisation and can also provide professional Emcees.

Creative director Lori Dungey says the company often acts as human icebreakers and can run everything from daytime conferences through to gala evenings.

“For conferences we can create a special, memorable experience for your delegates. We can focus and energize your team, make sure they have a laugh and send them off inspired,” says Dungey.

ConArtists utilises its years of experience when working alongside clients and is able to recommend concepts and themes for award shows, Christmas functions and events.

Over the years, the company has created comedy characters and hosted numerous themed events including Married to the Mob, Casino Royale and One Wedding and a Funeral.

“Our evening would not have been as successful without you guys!

The feedback was fantastic,” says Foodstuffs. n

CULLEY’S WINS GLOBAL AWARD CULLEY’S Habanero has taken out the Louisiana style sauce category at the World Hot Sauce Awards held in America last month. The company also claimed third place in the Latin category with its Tijuana Green Chile, proving the brand’s fresh approach to hot sauces using flavour rather than fire is an international success.

“It’s incredible that we’re being recognised across the globe for our hot sauces. When you think about the competition from places like

lastword

Mexico, Central and South America, we are being judged alongside them and actually winning. We couldn’t be happier” says founder Chris Cullen.

Culley’s also picked up second place in the Best Hot Sauce label category with its newly launched Firewater hot sauce.

The international recognition follows a busy year for the company which has seen it secure national distribution with Progressive and receive its first export order into Australia. n

Peter Mitchell

THE word is out that the low cost bread promotion being run by both retail groups is coming close to destroying the viability of the bread supply industry. The inside word is that the huge response for below cost product is causing major concern across the supply industry. And what’s worse is that overordering in anticipation of sales has meant truck loads going to the dump because the charities are already saturated with product to the point where they have had to limit daily supply. Well that’s the story that is going around and there must be some truth in it.

IT’S interesting that of the politicians coming forward, Greens leader Russell Norman has probably the closest connection with grocery. He started out stacking shelves at Woolworths as a 15-year-old and got promoted to the fruit and veg department – they were obviously noticing his green tendencies.

I’VE been having a lot of discussions with my wife recently over issues that have bothered me for a long time. Such as why does she leave her expensive car on the street and put all the useless junk in the garage. And why can’t she put mascara on with her mouth closed. She knows most things but can’t tell me why we can’t buy mouse-flavoured cat food, or if wool clothing can’t be washed, why is that sheep don’t shrink when it rains.

WITH the Government holding off on plain packaging of cigarettes while various legal matters have been settled

overseas, particularly in Australia, our small route traders and the oil channel retail outlets can breathe again. Cigarettes and tobacco are key to the success of many stores and any disruption of that trade could have serious effects. Already casual shoppers have turned to supermarkets for even minor visits with our dairies and forecourts becoming snack meccas with strong turnover coming from smokes and drinks. Plain packaging is unlikely, as has been proven overseas, to slow the smoking habit so the Government should be concentrating on running the country and not running the store.

IT’S promising to be an interesting Juice & Beverage industry conference in Napier in a few weeks following a horrendous year for the drinks industry that has been continuously bombarded with obesity negatives. No matter what the industry says, there is this continuing academic focus on a couple of products that take their argument out of all proportion. It’s a shame that the critics just can’t see there are a large number of industry products available with no sugar, with low or no kilojoules and many with alternate sweeteners to sugar. The blinkered approach by the critics needs big awakening.

THE “dirty politics” game being played in Wellington has touched the grocery industry with some interesting observations being rumoured around the traps, particularly as to where former Labour MP Shane Jones got the tip-off about supplier conditions with Progressive. It could make interesting reading if those hacked emails ever hit fresh air. In the meantime, we note that with all the hullabaloo, Whaleoil blogger Cameron Slater is not one of the guest seminar deliverers at this year’s annual

Food & Grocery Council’s upcoming conference – although he has been a prolific stirrer at the last two events. Whaleoil seems to have his knife into Countdown and it has been suggested that Clayton Cosgrove may be the one to take over following Shane Jones’ departure.

HOW they did it, confounds me. But the British Advertising Standards Agency has concluded that pyramid shaped teabags released more taste than round or square ones giving a win to Unilever in a court battle with Tetley’s owner Tata. It was all over a PG Tips tvc that claimed the pyramid bag gave the tea leaves more room to move freeing up a great taste.

Tetley’s complaints were dismissed.

IT’S interesting that there is general agreement around the international grocery market that smaller and more agile players seem to be better at coming up with exciting new products than many of the giants for innovation is more about trade management than focusing on customer needs.

Although at the end of the day, the major retailers still don’t give these smaller brands sufficient shelf space simply because they can’t ignore the sales data backed by strong promotion.. For the smaller boys, it’s hard to find that money needed to “pay to play” with the result being a penalty for those innovative companies.

AND as a final note, I see Vladimir Putin is employing a food taster to ensure his meals are not poisoned. This may be a new trend in the Beehive considering the poisonous nature of our current politics.

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