FMCG Business August-September 2024

25% OF YOUR DAILY NEEDS^ PROTEIN

REGULARS

Innovations, trends and awards

It’s been a busy month for our team with the New Zealand Food Awards underway, the Food Show returning to Auckland and the NZACS annual dinner and PJ Awards, to name just a few of the events we attended. It’s a real treat to catch up with clients, find out what’s new and see their products winning well-deserved awards.

Innovation comes in many forms and it’s exciting to find new products with a unique point of difference – such as a 100% natural donut with nothing artificial. Can you imagine a new range of donuts that are free from gluten, dairy, eggs, wheat, yeast, nuts, and sulphites – and vegan-friendly too?

When multi-award-winning OMG! Decadent Donuts Australia decided to expand internationally, it was only natural that New Zealand became the first destination –you will find all the details on pg 31.

We bring you the latest trends and products to watch in this issue, from international flavours to breakfast and frozen foods.

Discover inspiring recycling and sustainability stories on pg 32-39, including updates from the FGC, Foodstuffs, the Packaging Forum, Dole and Waitoa.

Turn to pg 44-45 to see who took out the NPD and supplier awards at the NZACS annual awards night and who won the Peter Jowett Scholarship. You’ll find more snaps from industry events on pg 50-51.

Keep an eye on our daily social media updates for breaking news and more industry highlights. If you’d like to receive our weekly e-news round-up, please subscribe at www.fmcgbusiness.co.nz where you can also find out what’s hot and access FMCG services and industry events.

Save the date for the popular C&I Expo, which returns to Auckland on 20-21 November 2024. It will be bigger and better than ever, held at the conveniently located Due Drop Centre in Manukau.

We hope to see you there!

Tamara Rubanowski

trubanowski@fmcgbusiness.co.nz www.fmcgbusiness.co.nz

ON THE COVER

For the first time, Weet-Bix is giving young kiwi kids and those young at heart the opportunity to create their own digital Stat Attack card. Find out all the details on pg 12.

PUBLISHED BY C&I Media (NZ) Ltd PO Box 109 342

Newmarket, Auckland 1149

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Simon Grover

GROUP PUBLISHER AND COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

Safa de Valois

safa@c-store.com.au

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

James Wells james@intermedia.com.au

HEAD OF CONTENT

Tamara Rubanowski

trubanowski@fmcgbusiness.co.nz ph: 027 278 4761

NATIONAL SALES MANAGER

Janine Aish jaish@fmcgbusiness.co.nz ph 027 777 2557

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Leanne Hogbin leanne@intermedia.com.au

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au

DIGITAL AND PRINT

COORDINATOR

Eclypse Lee elee@intermedianz.co.nz

C&I Media takes its Corporate and Social Responsibilities seriously and is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance and to initiate additional CSR based projects and activities. As part of our company policy we ensure that the products and services used in the manufacture of this magazine are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers.

FMCG is printed on FSC®-certified MIX paper from well-managed forests and other responsible sources. SCG print using BIO-inks that contain materials that are based on renewable resources including wood resin (rosin, colophony), and vegetable oils, linseed oil and soy bean oil. This magazine is printed by SCG, an ToitŪ enviromark gold certified printer.

ComCom tests supply code ‘rule book’

new Grocery Supply Code to see if it’s helping fix the ongoing power imbalance between suppliers and the major supermarkets.

In calling for views, Pierre van Heerden says that this review is crucial to make sure the Code that came into effect in September last year is operating as intended, and to identify the best way forward for continued and increased effectiveness.

New Zealand’s mandatory Grocery Supply Code was introduced under the Grocery Industry Competition Act (GICA). The Code was created to increase transparency and certainty for suppliers through a set of rules supermarkets need to follow when dealing with suppliers. Bringing increased certainty to agreements between supermarkets and suppliers would give suppliers more confidence to innovate and invest in more choice for consumers.

Mr van Heerden says “an ongoing power imbalance and lack of trust between suppliers and grocery retailers will ultimately undermine all of the other initiatives intended to deliver a wellfunctioning and competitive grocery market.”

“I want to make sure that we hear from suppliers, retailers, and any other industry players early in the review process to help shape the scope and direction of the review, which is why I’m opening consultation with enough time to identify the key issues and opportunities and explore changes to the Code if needed.”

“Through this review we’ll consider the effectiveness of the Code, if there are any areas for improvement, and if the Code needs to be amended, revoked, or replaced.”

The Commerce Commission’s market study into the grocery sector completed in early 2022 found that many suppliers are reliant on their trade with the main retailers and that grocery retailers were able to transfer costs, risks and uncertainty onto suppliers.

Under the GICA the Commission is required to review the supply code within two years of it coming into force, and has the power to amend, revoke or replace the Code. The Commission is starting the review less than a year after the Code came into effect as there are concerns that systemic issues are not being addressed and suppliers may not be benefiting from the full protections of the Code due to built in carve out provisions.

It is possible that issues related to the operation and effectiveness of the Code, that are outside the scope of the Commission’s current powers, could also be identified within the review and included in the Commission’s report to the Minister.

The Commission has published a Request for Views paper for consultation* with submissions due 16 September 2024 on the Commission’s website.

*https://comcom.govt.nz/regulated-industries/grocery/review-ofthe-grocery-supply-code

Review milestones

Indicative timeframe

Submissions open 1 August 2024

Submissions close 16 September 2024

Cross-submissions 30 September 2024

Draft review published for comment First quarter 2025

Final review published Mid 2025

What’s

New From Venerdi Gluten Freedom

Inspired by what Gran made (literally) ages ago! Gluten Freedom Spiced Fruit Sourdough English Muffins are what happens when we get a bit too liberal sprinkling the

To become a stockist contact: info@cartelfood.com www.cartelfood.com

Phone: 021 150 7389

Wholesome Goodness on-the-go

Chantal Organics new and innovative Easy Bowls offer a single-serve, wholesome meal on-the-go. Made with organic couscous, a variety of NZ grown organic vegetables and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, they are easily prepared and ready in 5 minutes. Easy Bowls are the perfect combination of convenience, nutrition, and deliciousness. Made in NZ and packed in recyclable packaging. chantalorganics.co.nz

For more info or to order contact orders@chantal.co.nz

Introducing Glow Lab’s New Functional Body Wash

Glow Lab is delivering to the growing demand for functional body skincare products, with two new body wash launches. Its AHA + BHA Exfoliating Body Wash gently smooths bumpy or acne-prone skin without the use of rough exfoliants. Its Soothing Oat Milk Body Wash is developed for dry or sensitive skin, with Colloidal Oatmeal and Manuka Honey to support skin barrier health. orders@glowlab.co.nz

www.glowlab.co.nz

Phone: 0800 GLOW LAB

Try NEW Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch

Global cereal and snacking company, Kellanova, is launching a NEW proteinpacked cereal, Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch Choc Malt flavour. With 12.7g of protein per serving, Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch delivers a delicious protein hit, providing 25% of the recommended daily protein intake in a single bowl.

www.kelloggs.co.nz

Woolworths Australia has announced its Managing Director, Natalie Davis, has resigned to become CEO of Ramsay Health Care.

Joining Woolworth Group in 2015, Davis worked as Director of Customer Transformation for the Australian Food business before becoming the Group’s Chief Transformation Officer. Davis then spent two years as Managing Director of Woolworths New Zealand before taking the Australian role in 2020.

Brad Banducci, CEO of Woolworths Group, thanked Davis and said has played a key role in the transformation of Woolworths Group and Woolworths Supermarkets in Australia and New Zealand.

“For the last four years as Managing Director, Woolworths Supermarkets, Natalie has been a very purposeful leader and championed a number of initiatives that are key to our future but

profile

Walkntalk Rugged Cable Search is on for new Woolworths Australia MD

her single biggest achievement has been the immense care she has shown for our Team.”

Incoming CEO Amanda Bardwell also thanked Davis for her contribution to the group over the years and said she while she was disappointed to see Davis leave, wished her all the best with her new opportunity.

“I am confident that the Australian Food business will be in good hands given the strong team we have in place.”

Davis will continue in her role as Managing Director until September, with a search underway for her replacement. Upon her departure, Paul Harker (Chief Commercial Officer, Australian Food) and Jeanette Fenske (Director of Woolworths Stores) will report directly to incoming Woolworths Group CEO Amanda Bardwell on an interim basis.

Introducing the Walkntalk Rugged Cable: Forged to go from the worksite to the camp site and beyond.

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected is crucial, but finding a cable that keeps up with the demands of daily life can be challenging. Enter the Walkntalk Rugged Cable, designed for durability and reliability, no matter where your day takes you.

This cable sets a new standard for toughness with its military-grade Kevlar reinforcement, making it 10x stronger than the average charging cable. It’s built to withstand drops, dust, and the general wear and tear of active lifestyles and demanding work environments. With the Walkntalk Rugged Cable, you won’t face the common frustrations of tangled wires or quickly frayed ends. Instead, you’ll enjoy a consistently strong and stable connection to keep your devices powered throughout the day.

At 1.8m in length, this cable offers the flexibility to charge your devices without being restricted to a close-by power outlet. It’s also designed for universal compatibility, ensuring that no matter what leading device you use, it’s got you covered to stay connected.

The Walkntalk Rugged Cable is more than just a charging accessory; it’s a dependable worksite or adventuring companion. It’s engineered to bend without breaking meaning if provides the flex you need when pushing boundaries.

Level Up your charging game with a cable that’s strong and dependable. Conquer. Charge. Stay Connected.

For more information please contact us at: Signature Marketing NZ –09 479 5524 or email sales@signaturenz.com

Woolworths MD Natalie Davis has resigned

Best in season

Late winter sees consumers reach for nutrient dense vegetables that lend themselves to warming meals. Root crops and brassicas should remain well profiled along with winter fruit, including Navel oranges and kiwifruit.

As we move into September and the start of spring, consumers generally look to lighten things up. Supplement seasonal fruit with a good display of tropical fruit.

Kūmara

Kūmara growers have recovered well after the devastation of Cyclone Gabrielle, which affected the 2023 harvest. The quality and flavour of the 2024 crop is excellent due to favourable weather conditions throughout the growing season. The traditional Owairaka red kūmara and popular Beauregard orange kūmara should be displayed prominently.

What to look for: Select firm kūmara with clean, smooth skin and no bruises.

Storage/handling: Store kūmara in a cool, dry place for up to three weeks.

Nutrition: Kūmara provides a source of dietary fibre to help aid healthy digestion and B vitamins that support healthy growth and development in children.

Fresh herbs

Inspire consumers in your produce department by showcasing fresh herbs in vibrant displays. Maintain a good supply of parsley, mint and coriander, along with a range of other herbs to keep displays interesting. What to look for: Look for bright, fresh, green leaves with no wilting and a strong pleasant aroma. Order small quantities regularly to make sure your stock is as fresh as possible.

Storage/handling: Herbs are highly perishable. A large selection of fresh herbs now come pre-cut and packaged for convenience – be sure to keep these refrigerated between 2-7°C. Potted herbs will have been well watered before being dispatched, so you shouldn’t need to water them if you are ordering small quantities often and turning your stock over.

Tropical fruit

Round out fruit displays with a good range of tropical fruit. Maintain a prominent display of everpopular bananas and also feature pineapples, mangos, dragon fruit and pawpaw.

What to look for: Look for plump and round mangos. Pawpaw should be firm and heavy for their size – look for fruit that is mostly yellow with a little green. Pineapples are ripe and ready to eat when they are either green or yellow, depending on the variety or country of origin. Display a variety of banana colours to suit the buying needs of consumers.

Storage/handling: A lot of care has been taken to transport imported tropical fruit without causing damage, so continue to handle with care. Display bananas with stems up and in a single layer if possible.

Navel oranges

Celebrate the peak of the New Zealand Navel orange season by prominently displaying them instore. Their vibrant colour and refreshing taste are irresistible to shoppers looking for lunchbox fillers and half-time snacks for sport.

What to look for: Choose oranges with skins that have a fine texture, bright colour and feel heavy for their size.

Storage/handling: Oranges won’t ripen any further once they are picked. Storage of Navel oranges is best in a 7-8 degree chiller.

Nutrition: Navel oranges contain vitamin C, which helps with immunity, and a range of B vitamins that help to reduce tiredness and fatigue.

Mushrooms

What to look for: Select firm mushrooms with a smooth appearance. They should be dry without any signs of deterioration.

“Round out fruit displays with a good range of tropical fruit”

Storage/handling: Mushrooms are delicate and need to be handled with care. They require a fast turnover and should be displayed in their original carton to avoid over-handling. Keep them under refrigeration between 2-5°C. If you are retailing loose mushrooms, provide paper bags for customers.

Nutrition: Mushrooms are very nutritious, containing dietary fibre, which helps with digestion and also B vitamins.

RISE & SHINE

What’s new and driving sales in breakfast products right now?

Over the last few years, oat milk has become the number one plantbased milk choice for customers, and remains a top seller in the longlife milks category, outselling other non-dairy milks like almond and soy milk, says George Lim, Foodstuffs North Island Category Manager Breakfast Foods.

He explains: “This surge in popularity can likely be attributed to several factors. Firstly, oat milk offers a tasty solution for those with

lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet, allowing people to enjoy their favourite cereals, coffees, and smoothies without dairy.

“Secondly, oat milk is often perceived as being a healthier choice and has a reputation for being lower in fat and containing more fibre compared to traditional dairy milk. ‘Boring Oat Milk’ continues to be one of our top-selling plant-based milks as it continues its rapid growth year on year.”

Kellanova launches new Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch

Global cereal and snacking company, Kellanova, is launching a NEW protein-packed cereal, Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch Choc Malt flavour, created for the ANZ market. The delicious new addition to the range mixes the iconic Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® cereal with high protein choc balls, creating a delicious Choc Malt flavour everyone will love.

The new cereal has been created specifically to help fuel the lifestyles of active Kiwis, especially growing teens, and meet their protein needs. With 12.7g of protein per serving, Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch delivers a delicious protein hit, providing 25% of the recommended daily protein intake in a single bowl. It is a nutritious and tasty choice for those seeking out the iconic flavour and crunch of Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® that Kiwis know and love, with more protein than ever before.

The launch of Kellogg’s® NutriGrain® High Protein Crunch reflects the increasing consumer demand for protein-rich foods, with 7 in 10 (72%) shoppers believing high protein is important when choosing a breakfast food*. The new cereal is designed with extra protein to support lean muscle growth and development, and essential nutrients to help unlock and release energy.

perfect for active Kiwis looking for a nutritious choice to fuel them through their busy mornings.”

Dr Gina Levy, Senior Nutrition Manager, Kellanova ANZ, explains: “A nutritious breakfast sets us up for a positive start to the day, but breakfast is the meal where people generally don’t get enough protein. By opting for a proteinrich breakfast, like Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch, Kiwis can ensure they are getting the benefits of protein early in the day. Protein is important for appetite control, building and maintaining lean muscle and supporting healthy bones. A bowl of Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch is an easy way to get a quarter of your daily protein needs before even leaving the house in the morning.”

Robert Saunders, Marketing Manager, Kellanova NZ, adds: “As New Zealanders increasingly prioritise protein-rich choices to power their mornings, Kellanova has created Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch, extending our protein proposition. The new addition to the Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® range is

Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch will be hitting shelves in New World and PAKnSAVE stores from the end of August with a RRP of $11.50 for a 500g pack.

To learn more about Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch and other delicious cereals from Kellanova, visit https://www.kelloggs.co.nz/ en_NZ/brands/nutri-grain.html

*Research source: Kellanova, Breakfast Usage & Attitude Study, IMI (2023)

New on-the-go option

Goodman Fielder’s Meadow Fresh is launching a new range in the convenience breakfast space. The New Zealand dairy brand has launched Quick Brekkie, saying it offers a convenient on-the-go nutrition option that is high in protein, fibre, and calcium. Developed in partnership with basketballer Steven Adams and produced from New Zealand dairy, the Quick Brekkie range is gluten free and free from artificial colours or flavours. Unopened, this new product does not need refrigeration.

“The launch of Kellogg’s® Nutri-Grain® High Protein Crunch reflects the increasing consumer demand for protein-rich foods”

cover story

Stat Attack is back – with new exciting news!

Here’s to another year of collecting the highly sought-after Weet-Bix Stat Attack cards!

This year’s new news is that, for the first time, Weet-Bix is giving young kiwi kids and those young at heart the opportunity to create their own digital Stat Attack card. Purchase your specially marked Weet-Bix packs and scan the QR code on the inside of the pack, take the quiz and generate your very own digital Stat Attack card. Once the card is created it can be shared online with friends and family.

Stat Attack Create Your Own Card enables Kiwis to visually see their dreams come true, allowing them to step inside the shoes of iconic rugby players – whether that be the All Blacks or Black Ferns. Fuelling their passion and unlocking their imagination to be on the same cards as their favourite players!

This year we also introduce the first Black Ferns Gold Card, which is an extremely limited edition, and what a better player to introduce this than Kiwi legend Farah Palmer.

Packs are on shelf from July to September, or until stocks last, so be quick!

For more information head to https://weetbix.co.nz/statattack/

“The allnice range is nut-free, plantbased, and free from palm oil.”

MiteyCo: Award-winning success and exciting new brand

MiteyCo Brands is making a growing impact with their award-winning allmite gold, a tahini-based yeast spread that stands out for being delicious, healthy, and versatile. By blending creamy tahini with savory nutritional yeast, allmite gold delivers a premium option in the yeast spreads category, which has seen little innovation in over 50 years. Its unique range of three flavours—Original, Mild Chilli, and Three Seed—add a fresh perspective and modern twist to this longestablished category.

“We are thrilled with the support we’ve received from retailers across the country and excited about the growing interest in international markets,” says Shannon Kelly, Managing Director and Co-founder of MiteyCo Brands. “allmite gold is now available in over 300 stores nationwide.”

BREAKFAST CEREALS

Building on this success, MiteyCo has launched allnice, a new tahini-based sweet spread. allnice is crafted to offer a healthier indulgence, featuring allnice Chocolate as its hero flavour, along with three other enticing variants set to debut early next year. The allnice range is nutfree, plant-based, and free from palm oil.

Laura Fisher, Marketing Director and Co-founder, shares: “We are dedicated to building brand awareness and driving in-store purchases for both allmite gold and allnice. To further engage consumers, we’re excited to implement a variety of promotions and activations, including in-store tastings, interactive events, and targeted marketing campaigns. These efforts will help strengthen our connection with customers and support continued growth.”

To become a stockist of allmite gold or allnice, contact admin@miteyco.com or visit us on Upstock.

The FMCG Business team endeavours to produce a monthly snapshot of category news and highlights, based on information from participating clients, plus a table of the freshest data available at time of print. If you wish to contribute news for upcoming category reports, please contact trubanowski@intermedianz.co.nz

AISLE SPY

Mexican, Moroccan and Asian flavours are in big demand.

There is no doubt that international foods continue to drive sales in our supermarkets. If you had a chance to attend the Food Show in Auckland recently, you would have seen plenty of new products inspired by Asian flavours. There was a large presence of Malaysian food and we spotted a wide array of hot sauces and Kimchi products. Thanks to New Zealand’s diverse demographic, inspiration from cooking shows, ethnic restaurants and holiday memories, you will now find Mexican Fiesta nights, aromatic Indian curries and Italianinspired meals in many Kiwi homes.

Chantal Organics: Wholesome goodness on-the-go

Chantal Organics offers an impressive range of certified organic products, from granolas, spreads and snacks to organic pantry staples for home cooking. They also work closely with New Zealand growers to provide an extensive variety of seasonal organic fruits and vegetables.

Chantal Organics is on a mission to make exciting, satisfying, and naturally great-tasting snacks. They saw a gap in the market

for wholesome, healthy, and convenient meals for on-the-go. This sparked the launch of Chantal Organics single-serve Easy Oats in a cup, as a super-convenient and satisfying breakfast on-the-go.

As this range proved popular, Chantal Organics launched a new range of Easy Bowls, using the same on-the-go format, but offering a savoury meal instead.

The Easy Bowl is made with organic couscous, a variety of NZ grown organic vegetables and a unique blend of aromatic herbs and spices, for a light meal full of wholesome goodness. It is easily prepared and ready in just 5 minutes.

Consumers are looking for a convenient,

tasty and healthy lunch snack to meet their busy lifestyles. The Easy Bowl is a unique product concept that ticks all the boxes, offered at an affordable price and in recyclable packaging.

The team explains: “Retailers are also seeing benefits by bringing new consumers into the instant food category with this unique and wholesome product concept, along with a premiumisation of the prepared meals category by driving value with a higher price per kg.

“Give your consumers what they are looking for: a convenient, healthy and wholesome meal, made in minutes, and delicious too.”

For more information or to order contact orders@chantal.co.nz.

NEW EASY BOWLS WHOLESOME

GOODNESS ON-THE-GO

“We have hit the right spot with quality and taste.”

Melissa Philips, co-founder of the Cartel Food Company

New Enchilada Bakes

For Melissa and Jason Philips, the co-founders of the Cartel Food Company, it has always been about creating a great-tasting quality product. They believe it is not hard to create good food, if you use good ingredients and apply some care.

They say consumers confirm that belief when they regularly tell them “WOW that actually tastes good!”

“We think that comment comes from a perception that frozen food lacks taste and quality. Before we started, we researched the frozen category offerings and determined that a premiumisation of the category was evident. The likes of ice cream, pies, sausage rolls were all starting to have a better quality alternative,” says Melissa.

“So we launched our range of frozen burritos and these are stocked at all supermarkets nationwide. The success of our burritos and the growth in the convenience meals category gave us the confidence to launch our new Enchilada Bakes,” says Melissa.

The Enchilada bake range comes in three flavours: Beef chilli rojo; Poblano pulled pork; and Chipotle chicken.

denotes value AND unit growth < +2% + shelf-stable meal and ingredient categories segmented by flavour

Melissa explains: “These are core ranged at New World and PAK’nSAVE stores in the North Island and are available store direct in Foodstuffs South Island stores. Our goal is to be nationwide by the end of the year. Since the launch we have sold well beyond expectation. With feedback from consumers confirming that again for this range, we have hit the right spot with quality and taste.”

To become a stockist contact info@cartelfood.com Ph 021 150 7389 www.cartelfood.com

Ultra Keto Tortillas

Farrah’s is thrilled to launch a new addition to its range – Ultra Keto Tortillas, the lowest carb tortillas on the market!

Bringing the brand’s well-known keto innovation into the Mexican category, Farrah’s Ultra Keto Tortillas have only 0.9g of carbohydrates and 47 calories per tortilla – that’s 92% less carbs than Farrah’s standard Taco Tortillas.

Perfect for tacos, Farrah’s Ultra Keto Tortillas create even more meal occasion opportunities for those following a keto or low carb lifestyle and the ultra-low carb level means more can be enjoyed at each meal.

These Tortillas have been expertly crafted to deliver exceptional taste and quality, and are also an excellent source of fibre, providing 27% of your daily dietary fibre requirements.

Farrah’s Low Carb Tortillas have been growing

“Farrah’s Ultra Keto Tortillas have only 0.9g of carbohydrates and 47 calories per tortilla

rapidly in NZ Grocery stores since launching in 2022, driving 14.2% of total Mexican Food Carriers growth (Circana data to 07/07/24).

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

Farrah’s Ultra Keto Tortillas are available now in New World, PAK’nSAVE and Woolworths stores nationwide, located in the Mexican aisle. For more information and recipe inspiration visit www.farrahs.co.nz

The FMCG Business team endeavours to produce a monthly snapshot of category news and highlights, based on information from participating clients, plus a table of the freshest data available at time of print. If you wish to contribute news for upcoming category reports, please contact trubanowski@fmcgbusiness.co.nz

NEW

Ultra Keto Tortillas Ultra Keto Tortillas

RICE & PASTA TRENDS

A quick snapshot of new and best-selling products.

Affordable pantry staples like rice and pasta are top of the shopping list right now.

Karuna Bhana, Foodstuffs North Island Category Manager – Pasta, Rice and Noodles explains: “Winter’s here, and with it comes a craving for comforting, warm and budget-friendly meals like pasta and noodle soup. We’ve seen a noticeable rise in stock sales as customers create satisfying winter warmers at home.

“Rice is another staple making a comeback. It’s a versatile and affordable ingredient for families looking to avoid stretching their grocery budget.

“And for those who like to explore a bit, there’s a growing interest in Asian-inspired noodles. Bold flavours and spicy options are a big

hit with New Zealanders, offering a twist on traditional winter comfort food,” says Bhana.

Glutenfree options and quick meals

It’s good to see more glutenfree pasta options in store, for people with food intolerances and coeliac disease, says FMCG Business Head of Content, Tamara Rubanowski.

“Dried glutenfree pasta variants, such as spaghetti, macaroni, penne and lasagna sheets, are now available in most supermarkets. There’s even a glutenfree Rice Risotto in store, which makes a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

“However, there aren’t many glutenfree fresh pasta products

available in New Zealand supermarkets. Perhaps this is an opportunity for someone out there to fill a gap in the market.”

Popular pasta and rice brands

Wilson Consumer Products markets the Diamond brand of Pasta and Rice Risotto and is the sales agent for Kings Choice Rice. These iconic Kiwi favourites have a long history in New Zealand.

Diamond is also New Zealand’s most established pasta brand and was launched around the time of World War II.

Susan Harvey, Marketing and Business Development Manager explains: “Generations of Kiwis continue to love Diamond Pasta and it is still proudly New Zealand owned today. Diamond Pasta has experienced phenomenal growth over the past few years and is currently the number one pasta brand in New Zealand with 39.6% $ growth over the last 12 months*.

“Diamond has always been embraced by customers as a cook’s best friend. Our pasta features on-pack portion markings that help minimise food waste and have re-closeable seals for ease of storage. Diamond pasta is also made in Italy from top quality durum wheat, so it’s no surprise that Diamond is the most preferred brand of pasta in New Zealand.

“With budgets being tight now, we have developed Diamond Fridge Feeds. Diamond Fridge Feeds are recipes and ideas for creating meals with a few basic pantry or fridge ingredients and leftovers. “With Diamond in your pantry, you can make a meal out of just about anything you have on hand! From pasta with marmite sauce to Diamond Rice Risotto

PASTA, RICE & NOODLE

Source: Circana MarketEdge Grocery Data MAT to 14/07/24

using leftovers in the fridge, there is something for everyone. Diamond Fridge Feeds will be on TV, radio and socials and you can check out the recipe ideas on our website – diamondmeals.co.nz/ fridgefeeds.”

Harvey adds: “Kings Choice Rice has been selling in the New Zealand market for more than 30 years and is still the preferred rice brand of many Kiwis. Kings Choice has a number of the high-quality and popular rice varietals as part of its range including Jasmine, Long Grain and Basmati which is the outright market leader in this sub-category.”

*Circana Data Diamond Pasta MAT $ growth to 26/4/24 versus YA.

“Generations of Kiwis continue to love Diamond Pasta and it is still proudly New Zealand owned today.”

Susan Harvey, Marketing and Business Development Manager

The participating clients, plus a table of the freshest data available at time of print. If you wish to contribute news for upcoming category reports, please contact trubanowski@fmcgbusiness.co.nz

ICY INSIGHTS

Worth $1.5 billion, the size of Frozen Foods has increased by 35% in the past four years. Value increased +7.8% on last year, outpacing growth of total prepackaged goods.

Long gone are the days when the freezer was purely shopped for frozen vegetables, or for a 2-litre tub of ice cream for the family; the frozen aisle success resides in its ability to adapt and move with modern trends. These days, the freezer houses an abundance of options; from ethnic cuisine to at-home takeaways and convenient meals.

Premiumisation remains an overarching theme in Frozen, with the average price per unit driven up beyond inflationary price increases. Overall, the departments value growth is leading the way, although units and volume have also increased.

Frozen is one of the top contributors to new product launches (NPD) success this year; while less NPD was launched in a challenging market, the amount of NPD sold increased. Frozen accounts for 15.5% of all NPD sales.

Why is Frozen successful?

Worth $306 million and rising +$40M this year, Frozen Meat is the top volume and value driver, with value-added chicken accounting for majority of the increase.

Ice cream, worth $314.6 million also contributes to frozen success, growing at a rate of +6.0% with premium take-home tubs and novelty singles driving demand.

As proof we’re ordering a side of fries with our

meals, Frozen Potato is the third largest category contributor to Frozen growth, increasing +14.2%.

‘Fakeaways’

During lockdown, ‘Fakeaways’ were a major growth driver with Kiwis being forced to cook at home. While demand has decreased since, we developed habits of keeping simple frozen meals on hand and many of us invested in air fryers.

The hospitality industry is suffering with rising living costs and freezer stocking habits are back in the spotlight. It’s clear we’re opting to recreate takeaways experiences at home, with frozen valueadded chicken, fries, and Asian snacks accounting for +10% of growth in prepackaged goods.

Frozen value-add Chicken increased +19.8% largely driven by Private Label growth +121.6%. Chicken Nuggets/Tenders are the biggest contributors – demonstrating that even in tough times, we like to treat the family to takeaways. Conversely, Tegel has kept leading the charge in branded offering, value rising +7.2% over the last year, with delicious tastes and flavours.

Frozen potato has been outgrowing frozen vegetables for years, highlighting the importance of the freezer to “switch out a takeaway meal” while keeping the kids happy. People are willing to spend more to replace a takeaway because the savings are still significant.

Indulgence

Ice cream, another standout in the freezer saw value growth of +6.0% as consumers indulged.

Take-home premium tubs and novelty singles were the biggest contributors to growth, proving that cost savings are not the only aim during a recession.

Consumer escapism trends have risen in recent years, fuelling the ‘Joy Economy’ - people are tired of the ordinary and seeking ways to temporarily escape daily stresses by creating joy in their surroundings, and in this case through food.

We seek comfort in brands that remind us of simpler times through nostalgia. This trend is helping companies succeed, with flavours like Cookies and Cream, Goody Goody Gum Drops, and Smores topping the charts and recent innovation. The topselling Ice Cream NPD this year was the Fruju-Just Juice collaboration, demonstrating our desire for familiar yet new experiences.

Convenience

The frozen food industry has adapted to our increasingly fast-paced lives. Innovative formats and perfectly portioned meals meet the growing demand for convenience. Frozen snacks and meals are up in all metrics, proving that taste and time no longer must be sacrificed.

Desire for convenience and to try different ethnic foods at home are key drivers of growth,

with Frozen Asian Snacks value growing by 19.4%. Auntie Dais dumplings are leading the way in Frozen Snacks with 25.3% growth.

Wattie’s Snack Meals grew at a rate of +30.2%, being an easy snack or side dish to a main meal, with Macaroni Cheese, Lasagne, and Cottage Pie being affordable family favourites.

The most significant opportunities to capitalise on frozen trends are having the right range to support freezer stocking for sports nights and entertaining occasions at home, understanding the different levels of value between consumer groups, and offering an option that caters to both. Embracing trending new appliances, such as air fryers on packaging and communication is a sure recipe for growth as well.

While consumers increasingly reach for the freezer door for exciting home entertaining options, and stocking up as a deliberate choice rather than as a last-minute necessity, suppliers will continue to innovate and cater to New Zealanders’ changing needs and tastes. The demand for convenience, tasty home takeaways, and indulgence will continue to influence and drive growth in this area, even as we emerge from cost-of-living pressures.

Source: Circana MarketEdge Grocery MAT 02/06/24

“Innovative formats and perfectly portioned meals meet the growing demand for convenience.”

frozen trends

Bringing a new twist to the freezer

Frozen potato products are a staple in most kiwis’ meals, with the Frozen potato category now reaching over $140m, and growing at +11.2% Vs this time last year (Circana data 07/07/24). The growth is driven by Chips and Wedges at +13.5% and Potato gems at +7.6%.

“Innovation in flavours and cut type continues to drive interest with kiwi consumers,” says Natasha Cook, Senior Brand Manager Birds Eye.

“Cost-of-living pressures and the resulting change in consumer behaviour has also supported this growth. Replicating the quick service restaurant (QSR) experience at home enables consumers to find that balance between convenience, taste experience and value.”

To help bring that QSR experience to life in the home, Birds Eye are launching two exciting new cut types to their potato chip range: SINDWINDERS® and Lattice.

“Both products are battered using Golden Crunch’s unique crunchy batter, delivering that delicious Golden Crunch taste, but in new fun shapes,” explains Cook.

“They expand occasion beyond side of plate and dial up the versatility of the humble potato chip as the star of the meal. Both are perfect for loaded fries recipes as their shapes provide airflow to allow the chips to remain crunchier for longer and for the topping to reach more chips,” says Cook.

“To help make mealtime even more convenient, these products can be cooked in the air fryer in ten minutes, making dinner tonight from the freezer easier, tastier and more exciting than ever.”

For more information, visit birdseye.co.nz or contact your Simplot representative.

Wholesome goodness on-the-go

Our team has received several excellent entries for the FMCG Business Product of the Year, so we have selected two finalists for this issue, from two different categories.

Our first finalist is the Chantal Organics single-serve Couscous & Veg Easy Bowl range, which is made with organic couscous, a variety of NZ grown organic vegetables and Chantal’s own blend of aromatic herbs and spices.

This light meal is full of wholesome goodness, easily prepared and ready in just 5 minutes. It’s perfect as a light lunch, side dish or a hearty bite in-between.

The Couscous & Veg Easy Bowl range includes two flavours; Moroccan Style and Spicy Lentil. It’s a unique product concept that ticks all the boxes:

• Certified organic

• Made in New Zealand

• Source of protein & fibre

• NZ grown organic vegetables

• 100% recyclable packaging

• Convenient & wholesome

• Affordable price

• Perfect for busy lifestyles

• Made with 100% plant-based ingredients

The Chantal Organics team explains: “The majority of consumers live a busy lifestyle, trying to juggle work, family obligations, sports, hobbies, and/or university, at the same time. With hectic days, it can leave little time to prepare a healthy and wholesome lunch. Available options are often unhealthy, offer little nutrition, or are unaffordable. At Chantal Organics, we took the challenge head-on to offer a healthy solution. We developed a quick and convenient

We developed a quick and convenient lunch snack that is better for you and the planet, while tasting great and not breaking the bank.”

lunch snack that is better for you and the planet, while tasting great and not breaking the bank.

“The instant noodle category is very popular with consumers and has seen double-digit growth over the last year, partly driven by the cost-of-living crisis. Instant noodles provide a low price meal. On the downside, the category is perceived as unhealthy, providing products that are full of preservatives and artificial flavours. We set out to develop a product that is just as convenient (simply add hot water), but made with well-balanced, wholesome, and certified organic ingredients that are free from preservatives, GMOS, artificial flavours and colours.

“We launched in June 2024 with two couscous-based products with popular seasonings. Couscous works great in instant preparation and delivers a fluffy and light texture. We also know that Moroccan flavours and spicy applications are popular with consumers. While we source ingredients globally, we always try and find local suppliers first. The vegetables we’re using (kumara, carrot and courgette) are certified organic vegetables grown in New Zealand, supplied from our own fresh department. Chantal Organics operates in three different sectors: Fresh (working with organic growers in NZ and overseas), Retail (our packaged products found in supermarkets) and Wholesale (bulk offerings for wholesale customers, refilleries, hospitality, etc). The kumara, carrot and courgette are grown in New Zealand by local growers we work with. They are then freeze-dried locally with a contract manufacturer to our specifications.

“With a recommended retail price of $4.99 per bowl, we have achieved our goal to provide a wholesome lunch option, delivering great value for money, and is certified organic.”

https://chantalorganics.co.nz/category/products/prepared-meals/

New concept solves meal dilemma

This month’s second finalist for the FMCG Business Product of the Year is designed to solve the midweek meal dilemma.

The concept behind the Waitoa Flavour Kits came from understanding a consumer need – the desire to save time when preparing midweek meals while still achieving the goal of getting ‘dinner done’ efficiently.

The team explains: “We understand that today’s consumers often find themselves pressed for time during the week, making quick and convenient meal solutions highly appealing.

“We’ve created these products to be ready in three easy steps, taking only 15 minutes to prepare, inspiring busy cooks to hack mealtime without compromising on flavour.

“Waitoa Free Range Chicken focuses on animal welfare and sustainability, with all products holding SPCA and Net Carbonzero certifications.”

The Waitoa Thai Green Curry Flavour Kit consists of diced Free Range chicken thigh and a flavour disc of preprepared ingredients containing punchy flavours such as kaffir lime, ginger, chilli and galangal – just add coconut milk and serve with steamed rice.

The Waitoa Creamy Pepper Chicken Flavour Kit consists of diced Free Range chicken breast and a flavour disc of prepared ingredients containing tasty flavours such as Garlic, Pepper and onion – just add milk and serve with pasta or rice.

Proudly made in New Zealand with local free-range chicken, this is a new concept for the fresh chicken category.

Waitoa’s free range farms are all located among the rolling green hills of the Waikato. For more information visit waitoafreerange.co.nz

“Ready in three easy steps, taking only 15 minutes to prepare”

Elevating Self-Care: Habit by Day

Habit by Day introduces wellness-inspired personal care products, exclusively at Woolworths NZ, redefining luxury and affordability in the FMCG sector.

Habit by Day, the innovative new personal care brand, founded by Erna Basson, is set to redefine the FMCG personal care market with its launch exclusively at Woolworths NZ. This wellness-inspired range of body washes and hand washes transforms everyday habits into mindful rituals, offering a unique blend of luxury and affordability. Habit By Day is part of the TCBC Group that includes cult favourite beauty brand - Frula Beauty.

Habit by Day was conceived from the personal journey of Erna Basson, the entrepreneur behind Frula Beauty.

“I am so excited for this brand launch,” says Basson. “Last year was our first year in the exciting world of FMCG, and it was full of learnings. I look forward to launching this brand with all our learnings and continue to give customers everyday value.”

The brand encourages individuals to slow down, be present, and savour life’s simple pleasures. Each product is crafted with a wellness blend of Chamomile, White Tea, and Passion Flower extracts, known for their calming and soothing properties. These botanicals provide not only a luxurious experience but also wellness inspired benefits, promoting a sense of tranquillity and mindfulness in daily routines.

Habit by Day’s product lineup includes three exquisite fragrances:

• Guava & White Lotus: Invigorates the senses with a refreshing blend.

• Lychee & Coconut: Hydrates and revitalises with an exotic fusion.

• Jasmine & Sandalwood: Soothes and relaxes, perfect for unwinding.

The range consists of:

• 3 x 900ml Body Washes

• 3 x 450ml Hand Washes

• 3 x 900ml Hand Wash Refills

Designed for a luxurious look and feel, the packaging is made from recyclable plastic, with hand wash refills providing two refills per bottle, significantly reducing plastic waste. The brand’s commitment to sustainability is a key differentiator, aligning with the growing consumer demand for ecofriendly products.

Habit by Day’s launch is strategically timed to capitalize on several key market trends.

The economic climate has driven consumers to seek more value in their everyday purchases without compromising on quality. The bodycare category is booming, driven by consumers’ elevated expectations for high-quality ingredients and luxurious experiences at accessible prices.

Future vision

Habit by Day is proudly made in New Zealand, with a long-term vision to expand globally. “Our long-term goal is to have this brand on shelves worldwide,” Basson states. “This will highlight the high quality of New Zealand beauty products and put our industry on the world stage.”

With its wellness-inspired formulations, commitment to sustainability, and strategic positioning in the market, Habit by Day is poised to make a significant impact in the FMCG personal care sector. Consumers can look forward to a product line that not only meets the demands of modern consumers but also sets new standards for luxury and affordability.

For more information please contact hello@habitbyday.com www.habitbyday.com

Blistex: Lip care for life

Blistex is proud to be New Zealand’s number-one lip care brand in the grocery sector*.

“As a market leader, we focus on the efficacy of our products, ensuring that every application delivers optimal results for our customers,” says Renee Ellery, Assistant Brand Manager, Health and Beauty Division.

“Blistex boasts over 70 years of expertise in lip care”

Founded in the USA, Blistex boasts over 70 years of expertise in lip care. From the beginning, the company has been dedicated to creating high-quality and innovative products that address a wide range of lip care needs. This dedication has propelled Blistex to become the market leader in New Zealand, where the segment is experiencing healthy value growth of 10% MAT*. Blistex continues to offer solutions that have earned the trust and loyalty of NZ consumers.

Product range and performance

Blistex offers a range of products designed to meet the diverse needs of consumers, ensuring smooth, healthy, and well-nourished lips every day.

Ellery explains: “Selling over 500k units in grocery in the last 12 months*, Blistex Lip Conditioning Balm provides unbeatable protection and care, tailored to meet consumer needs in all weather conditions. With broad-spectrum SPF 30+, it shields lips from the harsh sun, dryness, and cold, making it perfect for summer and winter. Blistex focuses on efficacy and ensures deep, long-lasting hydration, repairing and preventing damage with every application. This dual-action balm is ideal for the extreme UV exposure of the New Zealand sun and the biting cold of the winter mountains, keeping your lips soft and healthy-looking year-round.”

Market trends

Lips for life’s beautiful moments

“Consumer trends in the lip care category reveal that efficacy is paramount. Our customers want products that work, and Blistex delivers just that. With proven results backed by extensive research and development, our lip care solutions ensure your lips are always at their best. From hydrating balms to protective treatments, Blistex meets the highest performance and reliability standards,” says Ellery.

“Lips are a vital part of life’s beautiful moments. While eyes might be the windows to the soul, a smile is the door to the heart. With Blistex, we help you protect, repair, and love your lips, so your smile can be everything it can be. Laugh easily, enjoy talking with friends, and face every day with confidence. Blistex offers the lip care you need to live your best life.”

For more information call 0800 651 044 or email info@wilson.co.nz

*Source: Circana MarketEdge Grocery Data MAT to 23/06/2024

TOP TIPS FOR A CLEAN HOME

What’s trending in the homecare and laundry aisle?

CLEANERS

“With winter comes dampness, so we’re seeing a rise in demand for damp remover products, that help combat excess moisture in the air and prevent problems like condensation and mold growth,” says Thomas White, Foodstuffs South Island Category Manager.

“Dryer sheets and other dryer-related products also see a seasonal surge. As clothes take longer to dry naturally in winter, dryers become more essential, and dryer sheets help keep clothes static-free and smelling fresh.

“The colder weather also means more mud and dirt tracked inside from shoes. This leads to an increase in the use of carpet cleaners. Keeping carpets clean throughout winter helps maintain a fresh and healthy indoor environment.

“With the reduced ability to air out homes due to lower temperatures, many Kiwis are using air fresheners and candles. These help combat any lingering winter-related odours and create a more pleasant indoor atmosphere,” says White.

Commenting on ecostore’s performance, ConsumerNZ remarked in its article, “It’s way ahead of all other eco detergents at removing everyday grime, and equally as good at removing grass and mud.”

For those that prefer a liquid detergent, ConsumerNZ said the best option is ecostore’s Geranium and Orange Laundry Liquid, or for a fragrance-free alternative, ecostore offers the highperforming Ultra Sensitive range, which comes in both a powder and a liquid.

stubborn stains, and natural essential oil fragrance refreshes activewear and baby clothes, leaving laundry smelling fresh and ready to wear.

The laundry range has no optical brighteners, phosphates or synthetic dyes and is suitable for septic tank or greywater use.

For 30 years ecostore has been offering shoppers sustainable home, body and baby care products, removing harmful or unnecessary chemicals and putting people’s health first. Shop the range at ecostore.com

The FMCG Business team endeavours to produce a monthly snapshot of category news and highlights, based on information from participating clients, plus a table of the freshest data available at time of print. If you wish to contribute news for upcoming category reports, please contact trubanowski@fmcgbusiness.co.nz environment.

“Ecostore named best eco-friendly laundry detergent”

good business

New Meadow Mushrooms

new premium packs for its grocery range that provide greater protection for the mushrooms as well as being more sustainable.

The new 200g and 400g eco punnets are made from 100% rPET plastic that are recyclable in New Zealand via kerbside recycling. The peelable lid of the smaller SKUs and flow-wrap of the larger SKUs are both recyclable via soft plastic recycling at participating stores.

The more robust and protective packaging format replaces the old 200g cardboard trays that were wrapped in cling film and the 400g bags, ensuring greater product quality for the mushrooms. The freshness protection also means there is less food waste.

“We have been trialing our new packaging format over the past two years and well as carrying out a full life cycle assessment of all potential options,” says Meadow Mushrooms CEO Todd Grave.

“We are proud that the new format we have landed on delivers a 20% lower carbon emission profile and better circularity than all alternatives we looked at, including the old cardboard trays. No longer using the trays means we no longer need to use cling film, which complies with the PVC film ban coming into place next year.”

added benefit of better in-store presentation, which is important for grocery retailers.

Trials of the new packaging took place in 2022 and 2023 and with successful results, the new formats are now rolling out in stores nationwide.

Meadow Mushrooms is a familyowned business, which has proudly grown mushrooms for more than 50 years. Specialist growers, harvesters and packers work yearround to produce the freshest, highest quality mushrooms from its vertical farming system based in Christchurch’s Hornby and second location in Dunsandel.

Sustainably farmed, and with a 5-star health rating, Meadow Mushrooms are naturally packed full of B vitamins and selenium to help boost immunity and energy, as well as support growth and brain function.

Quick and easy to add taste and texture to a range of dishes, mushrooms are also a value-for-money option to make meals go further or as an alternative to meat.

“We’re feeling really excited about bringing a higher level of quality and a higher level of sustainability to our consumers and for Kiwis to continue to enjoy all the wonderful benefits of our mushrooms,” says Grave.

Four Square celebrates 100 years

Iconic Kiwi brand Four Square celebrated its 100-year birthday recently, marking the milestone with a range of limited-edition ‘Here’s to a Hundy’ merchandise.

The merchandise includes bucket hats, beanies, drink bottles and tote bags and heroes Mr Four Square, the friendly grocer who has become a New Zealand pop icon and a part of our cultural identity.

Four Square Head of Marketing and CX, Diane Clark says the range was created to make everyday life a little easier, a nod to the convenience offered to Kiwis by the nation’s 200 plus Four Square stores.

“Four Square has been there for countless barbeques, road trips, and everyday missions to top up on the essentials. We want our ‘Here’s to a Hundy’ collection to capture that spirit, with quality products that are vibrant and fun – bringing to life the essence of Four Square,” she says.

The Four Square logo has continued to evolve since it came into existence on 4 July 1924. However, the recognisable red, yellow and

green logo has been firmly in place since the 1950s with the colours and the face of Mr Four Square featuring in the ‘Here’s to a Hundy’ merch collection.

Diane says: “Most Kiwis recognise Mr Four Square, he’s a cultural icon that’s been reinvented across the years and has even appeared in his own contemporary art – much like a New Zealand version of Andy Warhol’s Campbells Condensed Soup.”

“This special 100-hundred-year celebration range of merchandise pays homage to Four Square’s history, but also looks to the future. We want to celebrate all our Four Square stores of today, focusing on what we do best, delivering all the essentials and a whole lot of convenience for Kiwis across our more than 200 stores.”

For the chance to own your very own piece of Mr Four Square memorabilia, Four Square’s limited-edition ‘Here’s to a Hundy’ merchandise collection will be available at most Four Square stores across New Zealand, while stocks last.

See Real Change.

Best vegan cheeses revealed

The fourth annual Vegan Cheese Awards results have been announced, showcasing the best on offer throughout New Zealand. The awards are open to any manufacturer who is selling vegan cheese in New Zealand.

The world of plant-based cheeses has come a long way this decade, with the local sector seeing a boom in new companies and new products.

The Supreme Winner of the Vegan Society of Aotearoa Vegan Cheese Awards was “The Greek”, a delicious feta from One Love Planet, a relative newcomer to the awards. The judges were particularly impressed with the bold savoury and well balanced flavour of this delicious vegan version of a Greek favourite. With a great lemony and garlic taste, this vegan cheese was truly supreme.

With the continued interest and growth of the vegan cheese market in New Zealand, the awards had more entries than ever, with companies from all over Aotearoa competing across 12 different categories. The judges were fortunate to be joined by expert cheese

Supreme Award winner: One Love Planet ‘The Greek’

Commercial Cheddar Winner: Zenzo ‘Cheddar’

Runner up: Angel Food ‘Cheddar’

Commercial Cheddar Flavoured Winner: Epic ‘Garlic and Chives’

Runner up: Epic ‘Hickory Smoke Cheddar’

Artisan Winner: One Love Planet ‘Karmasan’

Runner up: Sonntag ‘Smoked Gouda Style’

Cream Cheese Plain Winner: Angel Food

Runner up: Nu Dairy

Cream Cheese Flavoured Winner: One Love Planet

‘Chevie Black Pepper and Dill’

Runner up: Sonntag ‘Zesty’

Soft Cheese Winner: Unknown ‘Mascarpone’

Runner up: Savour ‘Ash’

judge Franco Sessa. His 25 years of experience in international cheese judging ensured a high standard was maintained across the categories. Also judging were multi-award-winning executive chef Jasbir “Jazz” Kaur and food and beverage industry judge, Aaron Pucci. They were joined by sausage and cheese loving, vegan comedian, Tom Sainsbury.

“We were very impressed with the range of cheeses provided, proving that the world of plant-based cheese is going from strength to strength,” said media spokesperson Claire Insley. “We present these food awards to showcase the best of vegan food produce available throughout Aotearoa and this year’s Cheese Awards were exceptional.”

There were two new categories added to the awards for this year, Cheese Spreads and an Innovation category, for the most interesting, unusual ingredients used. All the entries are available in New Zealand. For more information on this year’s Vegan Cheese Awards visit https://vegansociety.org.nz/nz-vegan-cheese-awards/

Flavoured Cheese Winner: Sonntag ‘Truffle Pepper

Cheese Board’

Runner up: Sonntag ‘Cumin seed’

Brie, Camembert and Blue Winner: One Love Planet ‘Bohemian Blue’

Runner up: One Love Planet ‘To Brie or Not to Brie’

Mozzarella Winner: Nu Dairy

Runner up: Epic

Innovation Winner: Savour ‘Cashesan’

Runner up: One Love Planet ‘The Big Cheese’

Feta Winner: One Love Planet ‘The Greek’

Runner up: Epic ‘Rosemary and Garlic”

Cheese Spreads Winner: Let Them Eat Vegan ‘Cheddar Spread’

Runner up: Savour ‘Mint’

Judges Jasbir “Jazz” Kaur and cheese loving, vegan comedian, Tom Sainsbury.

OMG! Decadent Donuts

When multi-award-winning OMG! Decadent Donuts Australia decided to expand internationally, it was only natural that New Zealand became the first destination.

OMG! officially arrived in New Zealand in June 2024, with Auckland locals and master licensees Rod and Carmelle Palmer proudly at the helm. The enthusiastic pair have a clear goal of becoming New Zealand’s number-one national donut company.

Renowned for their inclusivity, the scrumptious, hot, fresh donuts appeal to everyone due to their soft, fluffy texture and unique menu of sugars that dust the donuts.

100% natural with nothing artificial and vegan, the donuts are free from gluten, dairy, eggs, wheat, yeast, nuts, and sulphites, with the sugar dusting made from real fruit, vegetables, and spices.

These donuts have an almost cult-like following and are especially beloved by those with dietary restrictions due to food allergies, intolerances, or beliefs or cultures that dictate specific foods. They maintain the Vegan Australia certification and have gained accreditation with Coeliac New Zealand.

To bring the unique product to market in New Zealand, Rod and Carmelle have replicated the successful business model established in Australia, fostering independent ownership under a licensed model across multiple territories in New Zealand.

“What is so exciting is the almost endless options for where the donuts can be made and sold,” Carmelle said. “Trading locations span a diverse range of options from high-traffic areas such as service stations, traditional places like kiosks in shopping

centres, and brick-and-mortar shops. But less traditional locations work brilliantly as well, with a mobile model trading at farmers’ markets, community events, and festivals.”

A bonus for New Zealand entrepreneurs who take up the opportunity to make and sell OMG! Donuts is that under the licensed model, there are no royalties or levies paid, and 100% of what they earn, they keep. It’s a low-cost entry for a turnkey business, with equipment, training, marketing assets, and startup stock included.

100% natural with nothing artificial and vegan, the donuts are free from gluten, dairy, eggs, wheat, yeast, nuts, and sulphites”

Each independent business owner is awarded a geographic territory. Within that territory, they can operate in as many locations as they wish.

Although only commencing in New Zealand in June 2024, Rod and Carmelle have already seen huge demand for people wanting to take up the business opportunity. At the time of printing, two territories have already sold.

Rod and Carmelle are proving the demand for the donuts is high. They’ve been trading at pop-up locations around Auckland and experiencing long queues wherever they have been, fostering a high demand to be more available. “Many of our customers have had OMG donuts before, like us they had tried them while in Oz and dreamt of them since,” Carmelle added.

“They become so excited when they see us here in New Zealand. Others have never heard of us and literally just follow their noses to the source of the delicious scent of hot, fresh donuts cooking. We are certainly grateful to be so busy and to be bringing smiles to Kiwi faces with our humble donuts.”

Leakage, loss and leftovers – rethinking food waste

Last year the New Zealand Food and Grocery Council launched the first season of our Shared Horizons docuseries. We were excited to provide a platform to examine the key issues facing the food, beverage and grocery industry in Aotearoa New Zealand, and to showcase the latest innovations and best practice from across the sector.

The efforts of industry to address food waste and strive towards a more circular economy is a highlight of the first season of Shared Horizons. Cut to a scene of enthused Otago University students in the lab donned in white coats, transferring liquid to vials, upcycling waste from a local walnut farm by pressing shells for oil. Fade into another scene, at Dunedin’s iconic Emerson’s Brewery, with tonnes of spent grain, considering ways to develop this into new food-manufactured products beyond animal feed.

Inspiring stuff from a passionate Professor and younger generation of fellow scarfies from my old stomping ground.

The reality is food waste is a challenge – but if we can create benefit and economic growth from waste – then why wouldn’t we do it? Aotearoa New Zealand is losing a valuable resource and a lot of it. Too much of the food we are producing is being lost, wasted, and spoiled.

From farm to fork, paddock to plate

We’ve been thinking about food waste all wrong – we need to start thinking about it as a systemwide issue, farm to fork and paddock to plate,

and as a solution for food insecurity. As we know, creating change is about creating incentives. A recent report from the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor, Dame Juliet Gerrad comes to that conclusion too - our system incentivises food loss, waste, and surplus. Across a series of five reports, the prevention of food loss and waste at source is compellingly set out.

Another critical point these reports make is that a system-wide problem needs a system-wide solution. There’s also talk about the need for a national strategy and coordination mechanisms. Something we at the NZFGC are keen to do is work with like-minded food waste champions and businesses to tackle this massive challenge.

The role of industry

Food producers, manufacturers, retailers, and the hospitality sector all play crucial roles in the food supply chain and therefore have significant influence over waste generation and reduction. While globally households make the greatest contribution to food waste, the production stage has been identified as the second highest, accounting for a whopping 25% of total food loss and waste, considering improvements, such as storage facilities, efficient packaging, and innovative food processing techniques can minimise waste at various stages of production and distribution. From over-production to logistics and handling, industry has lots of opportunity to look at how avoidable food waste can be prevented, and how unavoidable food waste can be managed sustainably.

And then there’s upcycling the resources, turning it into new products like they’re doing at Otago University. The report suggested that the upcycled food industry had an estimated market value of US$55.1 billion globally in 2023, up from US$46.7 billion globally in 2019. This represents a commercial opportunity. While we look to reduce waste, we must also look to reuse genuinely unavoidable food loss and waste.

Back to the report – there are 27 recommendations with the goal of a 50% reduction in food loss. I’d encourage you to grab a coffee and take a look at the fifth and final report. From awareness to action, there’s much more to be achieved and we need to work together to make progress.

Links: https://sharedhorizons.fgc.org.nz/ “Shared Horizons docuseries” https://www.pmcsa.ac.nz/2024/06/27/releasing-our-reports-on-food-lossand-waste/ “series of five reports”

New recycling project for PET plastic bottles

In a positive move for PET bottle recycling in the Cook Islands, a collaboration between Infrastructure Cook Islands (ICI), the Cook Islands Trading Corporation Ltd (CITC), together with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) and Coca-Cola ASEAN and South Pacific has seen close to 40 tonnes of PET plastic beverage bottles exported for recycling – with plans to move another remaining 30 tonnes of material by the end of the year.

This initiative saw the plastic bottles collected by the Cook Island’s government-operated roadside collection contractor and baled at a Waste Facility until a buyer was found to recycle the material.

CITC collaborated with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners to find a buyer for the collected PET. The resulting deal sees the PET being shipped to Malaysia for recycling, with CCEP planning to bring the recycled product back to Australia to be turned into recycled PET bottles.

Gaye Whitta, General Manager of CITC is delighted at the results of this combined effort and says: “We collaborated with Coca-Cola

Europacific Partners, who we work with to import the beverages from New Zealand, to help find a solution for the PET. Huge credit for making this a reality is the initiative shown by the Waste Management Director, Claytoncy Taurarii, who had the insight to start separating the PET from other plastic to create a fantastic recycling opportunity.

Rob Priest, Vice President Coca-Cola ASEAN South Pacific, says: “We don’t want to see our bottles end up as litter. We are committed to doing more and being part of the solution. Our aim is to help collect and recycle the equivalent of what we put into the market.”

“However, we can’t achieve our goals alone. Addressing plastic waste and recycling challenges requires collaboration between industry, the public sector and civil society. We look forward to continuing to work with these groups in the Cook Islands and other Pacific Island nations to further increase the amount of PET plastic bottles that is collected and recycled.”

Dole Sunshine Company brings sustainability to the runway

“The Dole and Musa partnership ensures that 200,000 tonnes of banana pseudostem waste is repurposed instead of going into landfill.”

Dole is not only New Zealand’s favourite banana supplier; it is also proudly committed to sustainability. Dole has been putting people and the planet at the heart of everything they do for more than 170 years.

Dole’s promise to carbon neutrality led them to partner with Musa Fabrics, a fashion brand that creates unique fashion pieces out of banana stem waste, as well as creating jobs and supporting marginalized communities, particularly women in the Philippines.

In May, Dole New Zealand sponsored The MUSA ECO Fashion Runway, showcasing Musa Fabrics traditional and eco-friendly Filipino fashion, all created with their unique fibres of purpose, produced by extracting fibres from the otherwise discarded banana stems.

The runway was alive with colour and passion, with models including prominent members of the Filipino community, showcasing fashion to inspire and empower. Each model advocate was chosen for their contribution and commitment to Musa’s values and vision.

“Dole sponsored the MUSA ECO Fashion Runway as part of our global relationship with the

brand. This partnership provides the opportunity to support Musa’s wonderful initiatives that empower women, while demonstrating our deep commitment to zero fruit waste,” says Kamilla Camilo, Senior Marketing Manager Dole New Zealand.

Chief Executive of House of Musa New Zealand, Carmela Laylo, says: “We are so grateful for Dole New Zealand’s on-going support. Like us, they are genuine about creating positive social impact. With Dole’s help, we are on a mission to prove that fashion can bring about that positive change, providing hope for the future of our planet while spreading joy to people.”

The Dole and Musa partnership ensures that 200,000 tonnes of banana pseudo-stem waste is repurposed instead of going into landfill. Communities in the Philippines, including a woman’s penal colony, work to extract the fibres and weave them into luxury fabrics that create the stunning designs seen on the runway.

So, next time you reach for a bunch of bananas, know that those bananas are doing more for the world than you could possibly imagine, spreading colour and hope for the future.

People & Planet

Dole’s partnership with Musa Fabric, diverts banana stems from landfills, significantly reducing waste and lowering the environmental impact. By preventing these stems from decomposing, Musa Fabric production also helps reduce carbon dioxide equivalent emissions, contributing to carbon footprint reduction. People & Planet are at the heart of everything we do.

Learn more on dole.co.nz

Helping New Zealand become a recycling-rate front runner packaging forum

Rob Langford The Packaging Forum CEO

“We need our recycling systems to be part of an overall co-ordinated collection system approach”

As a member-led organisation The Packaging Forum is committed to facilitating sustainable end of life solutions to packaging, and responding to members’ needs to support their sustainability ambitions. This requires taking an agile approach when facing new challenges that affect its members and stakeholder partners.

With its strong membership base and international networks, the Forum is focused on implementing best-practice recycling systems that put New Zealand on the world map.

Rob Langford, The Packaging Forum CEO says significant recent legislative changes have certainly tested its membership and the industry, with many organisations having to pivot and quickly rework their business strategies.

“Announcements from government, such as standardising kerbside collections [which came into effect 1 February 2024], and single use plastic bans have provided a legislative framework for change. However, some of these changes have placed the burden of change on brand owners rather than finding shared solutions across the whole supply chain.

“One key example includes the exclusion of some recyclable materials from kerbside, including plastic and metal caps and lids, aerosols and food and beverage cartons,” says Rob.

Following the announcement on standardised collections, the Packaging Forum has moved at pace to put in place alternative pathways for food and beverage cartons, as well as caps and lidsbut into a cost-effective recycling system.

“We absolutely support the need for a change towards producer responsibility to move the dial from

having one of the lowest plastic recycling rates in the world to having one of the best. However, we need our recycling systems to be part of an overall co-ordinated collection system approach,” says Rob.

Rob says we can look to overseas for excellent examples we can learn from. Belgium introduced a ‘blue bag’ collection system for all plastic materials, metals and food cartons in 2019 making it easy for consumers to recycle by putting out a blue bag filled with recyclables at kerbside. They now have a plastic recycling rate of over 50%.

“We have been watching with interest councils and industry, in both the UK and Australia, working together to trial collections of soft plastic at kerbside where the household puts its soft plastic materials into a bag supplied to them, and it is picked up with the recycling.

“In New Zealand, with the standardisation of kerbside collections excluding soft plastic, we will start a limited trial in Nelson in Spring where residents can opt in to receive orange soft plastic recycling bags that they will put in their recycling crate. The bags will then be picked up by our recycling contractor. The aim is to move from this to trial the orange bag in the mixed recycling bin to be separated at the MRF by pickers when the legislation permits to align with best practice recommendations from overseas,” says Rob.

The Packaging Forum is a member of EXPRA, which provides the organisation access to global leadership on EPR schemes and, importantly, realtime updates on what is working and what isn’t.

Industry summit

On 4 September, The Packaging Forum is hosting a one-day Summit “Navigating the challenging landscape”. With an interactive programme that includes international speakers and local panellists, from the Forum’s vast networks, sharing their insights on best practice, sustainable solutions to waste, this is a must-attend for those in the industry. International speakers include: Joachim Quoden, Managing Director EXPRA; Michelle Saunders VP, Sustainability – Food, Health & Consumer Products of Canada, Seamus Clancy, CEO REPAK.

To register for the Summit, and for more information on the programme visit www.packagingforum.org.nz

Waitoa’s mission to increase sustainability

In November 2021, Waitoa Free Range Chicken announced that it had become the first net carbonzero certified free-range chicken in Aotearoa New Zealand, supported by independent certification from Toitū.

The certification required Waitoa Free Range Chicken to show how they had already reduced emissions across the supply chain and demonstrate a plan to reduce them further. The remaining emissions are offset, and as they continue to cut these down further, they will offset less. This includes emissions from sourcing raw materials, manufacturing, distribution, packaging, cooking and washing the dishes at the end of the meal. Waitoa then measures, reports, and achieves annual carbon footprint reductions.

In collaboration with Sealed Air, Waitoa Free Range Butterflied Chicken bags are now made with 80% recycled plastic, reducing

virgin plastic use. The new design also extends the product’s shelf life, reducing food waste.

Waitoa’s relentless mission to increase sustainability has resulted in an average of 77% recycled content across their entire plastic packaging range. This will save 50 tonnes of virgin plastic from being produced each year. Furthermore, this packaging can be recycled again through the Soft Plastic Recycling Scheme available across New Zealand.

Waitoa Free Range believe happy animals and the environment go hand in hand. Along with their commitment to their free range chickens living in the rolling green hills of the Waikato, by using recycled content in their packaging it’s one step further on their journey to become truly sustainable.

New Zealand’s Net Carbonzero Certified, Free Range Chicken

minimising food waste.

WhyWaste is an easy-to-use stock management tool, designed to help supermarkets reduce the amount of food that goes to waste. It leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to track thousands of product lines. It contributes to optimising inventory management and demand forecasting with the aim of preventing over or understocking and reducing unsold food. It also reduces the time that needs to be spent on date-checking and enables food nearing

tool, designed to help supermarkets reduce the amount of food that goes to waste.”

WhyWaste App

its expiry date to be reduced to clear or removed for donation or other diversion destinations.

Right now 75 Foodstuffs stores in the North Island are using the WhyWaste app, with the South Island currently running a trial across their stores.

Four Square Matakana, owner operator David Whyman says the efficiencies, time savings and insights from introducing WhyWaste has seen a massive 90% reduction in food waste in their store.

“It’s been an absolute game changer for us. It has reduced the amount of food waste we have, and the team find it very gratifying to also know that more food is getting to our community.”

For James Cardno, New World Whangaparāoa prior to introducing WhyWaste, date checking would take staff at least 90 minutes per day. He says that with WhyWaste, the task now takes 2030 minutes. “The efficiencies are huge and as a result the team love it. It makes their jobs easier, and I can feel confident our stock rotation is being optimised.”

WhyWaste is part of a range of other initiatives being undertaken by Foodstuffs to reduce food waste, including being part of the Kai Commitment* voluntary agreement. Along with several other large New Zealand food

businesses, Foodstuffs is working to strengthen and streamline food diversion processes to a network of food rescues organisations. All efforts are in line with Foodstuffs’ goal of zero edible food waste to landfill by 2027.

Reducing e-waste

Foodstuffs North Island is also helping to reduce e-waste and lessen New Zealand’s digital divide through working with Recycle A Device (RAD) –a non-profit initiative that provides refurbished laptops to rangatahi (young people) who otherwise wouldn’t have access to devices. Each month, RAD receives donations of unwanted laptops which are refurbished by specially trained rangatahi. These refurbished laptops are then donated to community groups or school students who need them for employment and education.

Foodstuffs North Island uses around 1,300 laptops across its support and distribution centres. The co-operative buys around 300 more annually to replace retired assets and donates these old devices to RAD as they leave warranty.

*https://kaicommitment.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/KaiCommitment_Case-Study-Foodstuffs.pdf

PAC-Make PM400

must have for office, commercial and retail spaces, for easy production of packaging material.

• Quiet operation, no vibrations

• Designed to sit on desktop

• Can handle cardboard of any size (single layer)

• Easy clean up

legal advice

Product recalls

– what’s the fuss

Philip Muir

Associate in the Litigation team at Steindle Williams Legal www.swlegal.co.nz

Product recalls can create difficulties for business both big and small. The obligations created by product recalls can be both onerous and costly. Equally, the penalties for non-compliance with the rules regarding product recalls can be high. As such, it is important businesses have a good understanding of their obligations when their goods are deemed unsafe or are otherwise recalled.

Compulsory and voluntary products recall

Under Part 3 of the Fair Trading Act 1986, a product recall can be either compulsory or voluntary.

A business may voluntarily recall a product if:

1. The goods will, or may, cause injury to any person; or

2. A reasonably foreseeable use (including misuse) of the goods will, or may, cause injury to any person; or

3. The goods do not comply with a product safety standard.

If a business considers a voluntary recall necessary, they must, within two working days after recalling the goods, notify MBIE of the recall (MBIE recommends that food recalls are notified to the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI)).

MBIE may give compulsory notice to recall a product, if that product has not been recalled and either:

1. The product does not comply with a product safety standard prescribed; or

2. The product is of a kind which will or may cause injury to any person.

Your obligations

If you voluntarily recall one of your products, then you must give notice to MBIE (MPI for food) of the recall. That notice must set out:

1. A description of the goods, with sufficient detail to enable a consumer to readily identify the goods to which the notice relates; and

2. A description of the danger (including the risk of damage or harm occurring as a result of that danger) that led to the goods being recalled; and

3. Details of what a consumer needs to do in response to the recall.

It is also appropriate to publish that notice somewhere that customers who may have purchased the recalled product can see. That could be on your website or in store.

If the MBIE gives notice of a compulsory recall, then you must comply with the contents of that notice.

In either instance you must also give customers who have purchased the recalled product a remedy of either a replacement, repair, or refund.

Potential penalties

Continuing to sell goods which are unsafe and do not comply with safety standards can lead to significant penalties for either yourself or your business.

The maximum penalties for an individual for a breach of the product recall rules is in the case of an individual a fine not exceeding $200,000; and in the case of a body corporate, a fine not exceeding $600,000.

Conclusion

It is important that businesses both big and small understand their obligations when it comes to product recalls. Failure to comply with rules can lead to big penalties as well as reputational damage and legal fees. As such, if in doubt, we suggest you seek legal advice on your obligations.

“Failure to comply with rules can lead to big penalties”

Adapting to a new era:

How retailers can meet the demands of cautious consumers

The demands of consumers are rapidly changing. Retailers must innovate not only for the digital age, but also to keep up.

A massive 95% of New Zealand consumers are either cautious, concerned or downright pessimistic about their current financial outlook, and this is having a flow on effect on how they spend.

Retailers must reinvent their business models to meet the market and maintain relevance with customers thinking differently about their future.

Navigating a new normal

Economic downturns are a test of customer loyalty. Cost-of-living pressures are keeping customers’ wallets shut, with retail sales for 2024 falling flat.

EY’s latest Future Consumer Index study asked New Zealand consumers about their future purchase criteria, price came out on top. Twothirds (66%) of consumers said price would be the deciding factor in purchase criteria.

But retailers are unlikely to ride out the current slump with sales and discounts. Value that emphasises quality, trust, sustainability and unique customer experiences will be key. When consumers are more discerning with their spending, businesses must offer compelling reasons for purchase beyond cost savings.

The sign of the times

Smith & Caughey’s shutting its doors after 144 years is a sign of where the economy is at. Competition from luxury brand stores and roadworks in the Auckland CBD were offered as reasons, but really it came down to one thing. Smith & Caughey’s struggled to reinvent itself. Not just for a digital era, but for a different era.

Flybuys’ closure after 30 years in New Zealand marked another major shift. Kiwis are still interested in loyalty programs – 95% of consumers said they would join a new rewards program for the right value exchange. But these programs have evolved beyond swiping cards and collecting points. Retailers now have the technology at their fingertips to create their own proprietary loyalty programs. Not only offering customers more personalised experiences, but also opportunities for retailers to leverage customer data in their own ecosystem.

Reasons for visiting in-person retailers

The motivations for shopping in-store are illuminating. While two-thirds of people said their biggest reason to visit retailers in-person was to ‘see, touch, feel or try’ an item, 41% simply want

‘to get out of the house’, and 29% enjoy the experience of shopping ‘with other people around’.

Bricks-and-mortar retailers who lean into these insights to create human-centred experiences are more likely to thrive, even in a period of consumer constraint.

Think of retailers hosting yoga classes, live music or art exhibitions alongside their racks of clothing. Or augmented reality and virtual tryons being used by beauty giants to personalise product selection.

E-commerce is at a crossroads

Online shopping remains a frustrating experience for many New Zealanders. Expensive shipping was the number one gripe in this wave of research, noted by 41% of consumers, followed by slow shipping (20%) and a poor website experience (18%).

New Zealand’s supply chain and logistics challenge – a small population stretched across two long, thin islands at the bottom of the world –is undeniably a hard nut to crack.

Some brands are already using AI to standardise processes, optimise last-mile delivery and improve the customer experience. But all brands need to find new ways to solve this, as a growing number of consumers are no longer buying the e-commerce value proposition.

So, where does this leave us? A digital presence is more than just a slick website, and many brands in New Zealand are yet to grasp the full complexity of the e-commerce challenge. A lovely looking front-end may give customers the right ‘feels’ in the first instance, but if the back-end doesn’t deliver, customer satisfaction will quickly fade.

“Online shopping remains a frustrating experience for many New Zealanders.”

Michael Summers-Gervai Customer and Growth Lead EY New Zealand

A close look at the New Zealand convenience market

Dave Hooker Executive Director at NZACS

NIQ recently completed an annual look back at the local convenience market, based on the end of the first quarter.

Macro headlines

• Consumer confidence -7 points in May versus 1Q.

• CPI +4% annually

• OCR – flat

• GDP + 0.6% annually

• Net immigration +130,900

• Tourism 3.11M visitors annually

So on the back of a fairly tepid economic background, how is the convenience market faring?

Total retail sales including liquor, supermarkets, pharmacy and convenience are up 6.5% in value.

Convenience sales (excluding fuel) are worth $2.5B +3.9% in value and 1.4% in Units.

Service station performance is less robust with just 1.2% increase in value and -0.2% in units.

Tobacco continues to have a negative effect on overall units and value sales in the Channel.

Categories that continue to drive growth in value and units include:

• Sports Energy Drinks & other RTD

“As the world’s largest supplier of hydrogen, Air Products has committed to investing $15 billion by 2027”

• Convenience foods

• Confectionery

• Coffee

• Snack foods

On the front line

With the rollback of the Smokefree amendments a degree of calmness has settled on retailers, however the fuel market continues to be challenging with overall high prices, some deep discounting and reduced demand.

I believe that it is unlikely the removal of the regional fuel tax on gasoline and diesel in Auckland will drastically alter buying habits of consumers. Customers do not focus so much on the idea that they have just saved $4 - $5 but more on the fact that they have just parted with $120 - $140 to fill their tank with 91.

Some retailers are delaying major investments and upgrades due to significant increases in build costs and the work

required in understanding what the service station of the future should look like.

Global outlook

Innovation is flourishing in a number of markets with large commitments to EV networks, Hydrogen filling and Food on the Go offerings.

Examples of fuel diversification include companies such as Air Products building a network of hydrogen stations across California.

The sites will be prepared to refuel approximately 200 heavy-duty trucks or 2,000 light-duty vehicles daily.

California is a leader in the energy transition and a first-mover in making zero-emission, heavy-duty transportation in the U.S. a reality. As the world’s largest supplier of hydrogen, Air Products has committed to investing $15 billion by 2027 in clean energy megaprojects around the world.*

A PwC study shows that by 2030, a third of all trucks in Europe, North America and China will be electric. However, electric trucks currently face the chicken-and-egg situation that electric cars once faced. The cost of e-trucks can be prohibitive, as can the infrastructure to charge them. Despite these drawbacks, recent EU policy contemplates the phasing-out of diesel-powered heavy vehicles in favour of zero-emission ones. With penalties being introduced for failing to meet production targets, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are already adapting to this changing market.*

At the last global meeting I attended with representatives from Europe, USA, Canada and Australia the consistent concerns were:

• Illicit tobacco

• Cost of labour

• Government policies around EV transition

• Security

• Swipe card fees

In the US 41% of transactions are made with payment cards. So c-store owners, are losing up to $29,000 in swipe fees each year. Swipe fees have become the second biggest business expense for retailers, falling behind only labour expenses. In the convenience industry, retailers pay $14 billion in swipe fees every year.

These issues affect all of us to varying degrees and are relevant to the New Zealand market. Unfortunately, issues around site safety and security are more of a concern in New Zealand compared to these other mature markets.

*Source Mobility Plaza

Carousel Confectionery creates sweet memories

Carousel Confectionery sells their products through the convenience channels all across New Zealand. Their iconic products include Tangy Apple & Grape Chews, Spaceman, Tangy Sticks, Fruit Sticks, Jersey Caramels, Coconut Ice, Fizzies and Nougat.

For 40+ years, the Hardie family has been crafting premium confectionery in the heart of the Manawatu. They’ve been working hard to make sweets for Kiwis of all ages. Chances are you’ve eaten a product made by the hands of the Hardie’s, you probably just didn’t know it!

After many years of perfecting the craft, they are excited to announce the launch of HARDIE’s Nougat - available in three outstanding flavours; made with only premium ingredients and inclusions:

• Raspberry Ripple

• Salted Caramel & Peanut

• Cranberry, Almond & Pistachio Nut

“The HARDIE’s brand continues to grow in popularity and we’re

The

excited to watch sales grow in the second half of this year,” says Business Manager Mathew Hardie. “As the HARDIE’s following grows, we’d love to introduce some more yummy flavours to the range! So watch this space.”

Everybody loves a sweet treat and a bag of lollies goes a long way to making us feel better, especially when times are a bit tough.

Mathew is the third generation to run the company into its next chapter. He says: “While consumers love innovation, there is still a massive place in people’s hearts for their favourite classic sweet. We see heaps of people come into our factory store saying, “I remember that from when I was a kid!”

“I think it’s so cool that we can transport people back to that blissful time in their lives when they eat our product. That’s why at Carousel we fully embody our purpose of ‘To produce a treat and create a memory’.”

For more info or to place an order contact sales@carousel.co.nz

Available in three outstanding flavours; made with only premium ingredients and inclusions. Raspberry Ripple, Salted Caramel & Peanut, and Cranberry, Almond & Pistachio Nut

HARDIE’s is currently being sold in convenience stores, nation-wide. Being distributed exclusively with DKSH; if you’d like to give these awesome products a go in your store, please get in touch with your local rep.

NZACS Supplier Awards and scholarship winners revealed

New Zealand Association of Convenience Stores industry members gathered at the Hilton in Auckland on July 23rd for the annual supplier awards dinner.

Executive Director Dave Hooker extended a warm welcome to all and revealed six finalists who competed in this year’s Peter Jowett Awards. The finalists were selected from nine entries received and pre-judged by the NZACS management committee from written submissions.

The awards entrants shared their presentations on the topic of Envisioning the future – how could AI revolutionise convenience retailers to enhance customer convenience and operational efficiency. The concepts also had to consider marketing, operations, finance, category management and customer engagement.

Many interesting ideas were presented and scored by members of the industry.

The finalists were:

• Annabel McDonald - Suntory

• Annabel Wylie - Suntory

• Rohil Lal - PMI

• Talei Crowson - PMI

• Monica Micek - Night n Day

• Lucy Heron – BP

The NZACS Gala dinner and supplier awards presentations followed, with multi-award-winning newsreader and presenter Hilary Barry as MC for the evening.

The winner of the Peter Jowett Award was Talei Crowson from Phillip Morris, who presented a Smart Retail AI concept. Talei suggested that external data points from weather forecasts and event calendars could be integrated with store data, to update orders, increase profits, improve the customer experience, create the perfect store display and ultimate shopping experience.

Her prize includes tickets to the NZACS Study Tour in Adelaide later this year, plus $1000 cash.

Runner-up was Annabel Wylie from Suntory Oceania who will also be hosted on the NZACS Study Tour.

The Cookie Time team with Geoff Smith (Coalface Consulting)

The Unilever and Bidfood team

Peter Jowett Awards winner Talei Crowson

Peter Jowett Awards Runner-up Annabel Wylie

Streets (Bidfood)

Best Administration Support to Stores: Cookie Time

Best Delivery Service to Stores: Coca-Cola

Best / Most Consistent Stock Supply to Stores: Cookie Time

The above-mentioned awards were based on Convenience

Stores rating Suppliers in the Coalface Convenience Store Survey 2024. Over 300 stores participated.

Best Head Office Service & Support (Large Supplier): Suntory Oceania

Best Head Office Service & Support (Medium Supplier)

Signature Marketing

Best Regional Retail Group Store Execution: NPD

Best National Retail Group Store Execution: Z Energy

2024 Key Account Manager of the Year: Sophie BennettTip Top

2024 Category Manager of the Year: Briony Newton

– Z Energy

Supreme Awards and NPD 2024

Supreme Supplier Award 2024: Suntory Oceania

Most Successful NPD – Beverages: CCEP Mother Energy Lava Guava

Most Successful NPD – Frozen: Streets Magnum Double Sunlover

Most Successful NPD – Snacks: Doritos Corn Chips, The Kingpin Burger

Most Successful NPD – Confectionery: Kit Kat Chunky Cookie Dough

2024 Key Account Manager of the Year Sophie Bennett (Tip Top)

The Signature Marketing team

The Z Energy team

The Coca-Cola team (CCEP)

The Nestle team with Dave Hooker

The Bluebird team

Louise Mitchell (NPD)

The Suntory Oceania team

MC Hillary Barry

The secret to Convenience & Impulse Retailing Expo’s success

We’re hard at work preparing another fantastic C&I NZ Expo, in Auckland this November, so I’ve been thinking a great deal lately on what makes it so successful. The C&I NZ Expo is, without a doubt, an unparalleled opportunity for suppliers and retailers alike, and it’s time we recognise the tremendous value this event brings to the industry. For suppliers in, or trying to crack, the impulse market, C&I NZ Expo isn’t just another trade show; it’s the premier stage to unveil the latest innovations and groundbreaking products that will shape the future of retail. Imagine the impact of showcasing your offerings to a highly qualified audience that includes independent grocers, convenience stores, petrol stations, corner shops, and the foodservice sector - all under one roof.

Retailers, attending the C&I NZ Expo is nothing short of essential if you’re serious about staying ahead in the competitive retail landscape. This event is your gateway to discovering the freshest trends and innovations tailored specifically for the impulse market and beyond.

We know you are time-poor and understaffed, so we’ve designed this expo for you. Consider the advantages of exploring a vast array of new products and services through live demonstrations and hands-

on experiences in a single day. This isn’t passive observation; it’s active discovery, allowing you to make informed purchasing decisions that could transform your business.

The C&I NZ Expo is a powerhouse of knowledge, offering morning Symposium sessions with presentations from the industry’s leading minds. Retailers gain exclusive insights into market trends and attitudes, best practices, and emerging technologies that can elevate their operations and enhance customer experience. Networking with suppliers and industry peers over two days further enriches the experience, fostering partnerships that can drive meaningful growth.

In essence, the C&I NZ Expo is not just an event; it’s a catalyst for development and change. It’s the meeting place where connections are made, ideas are born, and the future of convenience retail is shaped. So, whether you’re looking to exhibit or attend, make sure you’re a part of this transformative experience. Your business’s next big breakthrough could be waiting for you at C&I NZ Expo 2024.

“We know you are time-poor and understaffed, so we’ve designed this expo for you. Consider the advantages of exploring a vast array of new products and services in a single day.”

Safa de Valois

C&I NZ Expo brings together the broadest range of suppliers to the convenience and impulse industry that you will find at one trade event. Our mission to is provide retailers large and small across New Zealand with access to the latest services, technologies and products to better serve you, and your customers.

C&I Industry Symposium brings you intelligence, trends and perspectives from thought leaders within and outside the convenience channel through engaging content delivered in two short sessions for busy, futurefocused retailers.

Wednesday 20 November

Thursday 21 November

Due Drop Events Centre, Manukau

Register free for C&I NZ Expo, and buy tickets for C&I Industry Symposium at

Due Drop Events Centre has plenty of onsite parking. Discounted accommodation in Manukau is available for a limited time through our partner, Conference National. Visit the Accommodation tab on our website.

Convenience Cocktails Sponsor

wine Discover the new Selaks Origins Breeze 5% range

In an ever-evolving New Zealand market, Selaks proudly introduces their first-to-market 5% alcohol fruit wine to their lineup: Selaks Origins Breeze 5%, a crisp, and refreshing fruit wine that is lower in alcohol (compared to a standard 13% alcohol wine) and poised for success.

This innovative offering comes at a time when lower alcohol consumption is not just a preference but a growing trend among consumers seeking healthier lifestyle choices without compromising on flavour.

The evolution of mindful drinking Research is clear: demand for lower alcohol beverages is growing. Consumers are increasingly mindful of their alcohol intake and are actively seeking options that allow them to enjoy wine in moderation. This shift reflects a broader cultural movement in New Zealand towards wellness and responsible drinking habits.

“Drinking responsibly is essential, drinking mindfully is the evolution we are now embracing,” says Stephanie Shennan, Senior Brand Manager, Constellation Brands.

Giving

grapes a second squeeze

The Selaks Origins Breeze range introduces a fusion of tradition and innovation. At the heart of the Origins Breeze range is the innovative use of the Piquette method, a traditional technique originating from France. Piquette is made by rescuing already pressed winemaking grapes, and giving them a second squeeze. More taste and less waste!

“Drinking responsibly is essential, drinking mindfully is the evolution we are now embracing” Stephanie Shennan, Senior Brand Manager, Constellation Brands

“In a world where we are striving for better food utilisation, this product redirects grape juice that would otherwise have been wasted,” explains David Edmonds, Chief Winemaker.

Our NEW 5% range replaces current 8% Why is the taste so much better?

Piquette is a 5% ABV product relying on natural fruit flavours. With no need to remove any alcohol through industrial methods, Piquette remains bright and fresh.

What makes it a better consumer offering?

At 5% ABV there are just 3 standard drinks in a 750ml bottle. This makes it a very versatile product for an “any-time refreshment”.

“We have worked hard to produce a product with all natural fruit flavours, a product that speaks of the bright fresh characters of the fruit from which it is made that can be enjoyed by a broad range of consumers,” says David Edmonds.

As we launch Selaks Origins Breeze 5%, we invite our supermarket partners to join us in catering to this growing market segment.

For more information and to order the range

Phone 0800 662 456 or Email info@selaks.co.nz

NEW ZEALAND PIQUETTE ROSÉ

PIQUETTE from MARLBOROUGH SAUVIGNON BLANC

PIQUETTE from NEW ZEALAND PINOT GRIS

Out & About

New World Ilam owner operator Marc Brokenshire with newly installed Locky Docks for bikes.

Food for Thought nutritionist Andy Kane (front right) congratulated Waitoki School students for their awesome efforts and Heather Williamson from PAK’nSAVE Silverdale supplied the students with a nutritious morning tea.

Mt Biggs School students and teachers took part in the Food for Thought programme at New World Fielding.

The 2024 Marlborough Young Viticulturist of the Year competition was held at Whitehaven in Rapaura.

Invivo celebrated its 2024 vintage by meeting long-term partner-in-wine, Graham Norton, in New York, for their annual blending session of their New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

The Dilmah team at a charity cook-off event at the Mission in Auckland.

Has your team moved to new premises, or been part of a fun event, great harvest, or promotional activity? Send us your favourite snapshots to be in to win vouchers for the new Cartel Foods Enchilada Bakes, valued at over $60..

Just email your high res image with a caption to trubanowski@fmcgbusiness.co.nz

Jason and Karen McGrath from Southern Alps Sprouts are celebrating 25 years in business.

The new On the Spot Meadows owner operators Karen & Craig Bishop-Everett.

(L to R) NZ Bakels National Sales manager Tony Marshall with celebrity pie judge Sid Sahrawat and NZ Bakels Managing Director Brent Kersel.

At the Pride in Print Awards in Wellington: MCC Albany Sales Director Marco Adriaanse with the Supreme Award for a self-adhesive Red Mill Rum label design.