Supermarket & Grocery

Seafood supplier costs increased the most, followed by grocery, according to the latest Infometrics-Foodstuffs GSCI.

The Commerce Commission is setting up an anonymous complaints system for suppliers as part of its oversight of the $22bn grocery sector.

Stock with a cost value of up to $450,000 has been returned to suppliers of failed online grocery retailer Supie, as liquidators continue to seek buyers for the company’s assets.

Woolworths New Zealand has opened what it says is New Zealand’s first newly built Woolworths – a $20m supermarket located at Canterbury’s Waimakariri Junction.

Fix & Fogg has been named Woolworths Supermarkets small trade partner of the year in Australia.

Foodstuffs Own Brands is recalling a specific batch of its Value brand lemonade flavoured soft drink due to the presence of phenylalanine.

Lessons from across the ditch on how NZ’s new grocery code can help improve the industry – but only if suppliers choose to use it.

Revenue and gross profit were up and so were payments to Australian owner Woolworths Group.

Woolworth is adding seasonal products into its Low Price programme including whole ham cooked on the bone, some Christmas mince pies and ciabatta loaves.

Long-term Kepler Challenge sponsor FreshChoice installed a pop-up supermarket station near the last stretch of the 60km Fiordland race.

The Countdown owner’s bottom line comes under increasing pressure, with nearly $50m added to its finance bill alone.

Australia’s major supermarket groups are to come under scrutiny in a senate probe of their pricing and profits.

Woolworths New Zealand has completed a $4.6m overhaul of its supermarket in Palmerston North’s Kelvin Grove, including relaunched the former Countdown as a Woolworths.

The breakfast specialist lands a contract with the US giant’s Auckland store that ticks the boxes for sales margins and sustainability.

Woolworths New Zealand is aiming to transition 100% of its home delivery trucks to be electric powered by 2030.

Foodstuffs continues to grow the footprint of its Four Square banner, opening a new 250 square metre store in Taranaki’s Fitzroy.

The French bakery extends its grocery range to pastry, filling the gap left by the exit of Goodman Fielder’s Edmonds brand from the freezer.

The dates for a final 2023 virtual Code of Conduct training session have been confirmed by the New Zealand Food & Grocery Council.

The baking behemoth that owns bread brand Tip Top and Big Ben created a top three category competitor when it acquired rival Dad’s Pies.

Foodstuffs South Island has restructured operations at its Trents Wholesale business as it looks for growth from its B2B division.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened a new $21m cross dock and depot facility in Grenada, Wellington.

The Warehouse Group chief executive Nick Grayson says the retailer is focused on improving the profitability of its grocery offering.

Supermarket dollar sales hit another record, but Kiwis are becoming more discerning with their spend.

Woolworths New Zealand has converted one hundred of its supermarkets to electronic shelf labels, with Countdown Papatoetoe the latest addition.

A familiar face is back at the top of the annual survey, pushing confectionary giant Mondelēz from the top of the rankings.

Woolworths New Zealand has launched a campaign calling for respect and courtesy from customers this holiday season as verbal and physical aggression to its team members rises.

Retail banners owned by Foodstuffs have come out on top in the annual Reader’s Digest quality service awards, which identify businesses with the most satisfied customers.

The list of hundreds of known creditors of failed online grocery retailer Supie runs the gamut of small to large food and beverage manufacturers.

Do shoppers favour uncluttered package design and, if so, why? Texas Christian University’s assistant professor of marketing, Lan Anh Nu Ton, takes a closer look.

Foodstuffs’ price rises have fallen below supplier increases on the same product categories measured in the Food Price Index, after being higher than them for six months.

The increase in annual and monthly food prices continues to slow, with the latter coming in negative for the second month in a row, according to Stats NZ.

Woolworths New Zealand’s rebranding of its SuperValue franchise stores continues, with Auckland’s Papakura the latest location to change to FreshChoice.

The owners of the independent ice cream company have put it up for sale after five years of ownership.

NIQ’s annual Breakthrough Innovation report took in NZ for the first time this year, so which Kiwi brands have been named innovation leaders?

But costs remain stubbornly high, especially for grocery items like noodles, potato chips, and cooking oils.

A Countdown supermarket in Tauranga will face five days of not being able to sell alcohol following a combined operation by licensing agencies in August.

Indicative bids are in for Synlait’s consumer dairy business, however, they are reportedly short of the expected price-tag of around $130m.

Supie creditors voted for the liquidation of failed online grocery startup Supie at a watershed meeting on Thursday.

Firms such as Fonterra, Frucor Suntory and Heinz Wattie’s are expected to decide the future of the failed online retailer, with liquidation the most likely option.

Suppliers are divided over the risks and opportunities of the proposed Foodstuffs merger, with smaller manufacturers fearing they have more to lose.

CEO Raewyn Bleakley says the industry group will “actively participate” in the consultation process regarding the proposed merger.

“The clearance process includes the opportunity for interested parties – including suppliers – to respond to the proposed merger,” ComCom said.

Auckland-based New Zealand Dispute Resolution Centre has been signed off as the provider to deliver the new dispute resolution scheme for the grocery industry.

The two Foodstuffs co-ops are looking to merge, creating a $13bn grocery behemoth led by current FSNI boss Chris Quin.

Woolworths New Zealand is adding a ‘direct to boot’ service to its online shopping offer, following what it said was a successful pilot.

Lane calls on suppliers to consider wholesaling products directly to combined convenience and route trade buyers – a move that would shift power from the duopoly.

Foodstuffs South Island is tipping a bumper blueberries season as the warmer El Niño weather pattern arrives in New Zealand, making up for what could be fewer strawberries.

And it’s neither Wellington nor Christchurch, says the US retail giant’s NZ boss.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened a new Four Square in Britomart – the first presence for the brand in downtown Auckland.

NZ’s first grocery commissioner calls on industry to support new entrants or they could become subject to a wholesale code of conduct.

The burgeoning grocery supplier moves on another household staple in an effort to grow sales in the sector.

An anonymous donor has provided cash to pay Supie’s workers, who were dismissed this week as the company collapsed.

In the wake of Supie’s collapse, Huckleberry’s owners say it will take govt support to bring true competition to the capital-constrained NZ market – and they’re ready to take the call.

Food and beverage sector stakeholders from around the country are gathering in Sydney for the New Zealand Food & Grocery Council’s annual conference, which falls days after Supie’s collapse.

“We fought so hard to introduce competition in the market so that Kiwis could get a fairer deal for their groceries,” says the online retailer’s founder.

One of the early backers of the collapsed online supermarket says there were “several factors” that scuppered the startup, but it wasn’t a lack of effort by founder Sarah Balle.

Market commentators, food industry stakeholders and politicians speak out on the state of competition in the grocery sector following the failure of supermarket challenger Supie.

Sarah Balle’s grocery challenger runs short of cash after a key investor pulls support, leaving the company facing a creditors’ bill of around $3m.

Levelling the playing field for new entrants to the grocery sector is one of the top three issues on New Zealand’s inaugural grocery commissioner’s fix-it list.

Food and drink industry appointments and people moves for the week to 27 October.

Woolworths New Zealand has expanded coverage of its Australian-originated rapid delivery service in New Zealand.

The startup behind plant-based product Vince is raising funds so it can add to its manufacturing capacity ahead of a planned supermarket launch.

Woolworths Group CEO Brad Banducci says a difficult economic environment and a competitive landscape in NZ will dent its first half results.

“A decision will be made as to next steps including whether to open an investigation,” says a spokesperson for the competition watchdog.

The red sheds retailer continues to expand into grocery, with its fresh food offer entering more stores across the country.

Foodstuffs supermarkets and brands took home 20 medals at the Great New Zealand Sausage Competition 2023, hosted by Retail Meat NZ.

Foodstuffs North Island has today opened a new Four Square Mount Maunganui.

The Countdown owner launches an ‘enhanced’ range of private label meat products, following a three-year review and increased investment in its North Island meat plant.

Froneri-owned ice cream brand Tip Top is bringing back its Cookies and Cream and Goody Goody Gum Drops flavours to grocery after they were paused last October.

Foodstuffs’ price rises were once again ahead of supplier increases on the same product categories measured in the Food Price Index, making September the sixth month running.

Monthly food prices fell 0.4% on the back of falls for fruit and vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce.

A Sri Lanka organics giant is sizing up the NZ opportunity with a road map that includes pouring hundreds of SKUs into the market, and potentially its own organics supermarket.

The salad company’s profit plummets as costs rise and there are supply shortages due to extreme weather.

All but one department saw higher supplier costs in September compared with August, with seafood costs among the fastest increases.

The annual list recognises companies that built connections with their audiences and made an impact on their customers.

New World has named its top 50 wines under $25 following its annual wine awards which attracted more than 1,200 entries.

Consumer New Zealand says many items marked with supermarket loyalty card discounts could be bought for a lower price at stores not using the schemes.

Foodstuffs North Island’s Mt Albert supermarket, Fresh Collective Alberton, is getting a post-Auckland Anniversary flood revamp and will emerge as New World Mt Albert.

The manufacturer says it will instead reduce supply to its Pacific and Asian markets.

The breakfast specialist is sizing up the Aus market, where it sees potential to get a better margin shipping product direct than it receives in grocery domestically.

Support for new entrants could include finance, making sure land is available, regulatory changes, incubating innovation and accelerating competition.

Snacking company Bluebird Foods took home one of the most coveted awards after being named packaged supreme supplier of the year.

The watchdog could turn to litigation should it find that Sanitarium’s actions are in breach of the Commerce Act, according to the competition watchdog’s chair, John Small.

The Commerce Commission has published a factsheet to support the introduction of the new Grocery Supply Code, which took effect yesterday, 28 September 2023.

The Grocery Supply Code will drive food prices even higher, says the Taxpayers’ Union policy adviser, James Ross.

The retailer’s CEO says measures to improve wholesale access in NZ’s $22bn duopoly-dominated grocery sector have not yet helped the red sheds.

A new Asian supermarket and a handful of quick service brands are heading to a retail development in Auckland’s Westgate, where US retail giant Costco opened its first New Zealand store.

Ten manufacturers spanning meat products, meals in a jar and pet food have been named finalists in the Foodstuffs Emerging Supplier Competition.

Woolworths has launched a new ‘Low Price’ campaign at Countdown.

The Brackenfields Shopping Centre in the South Island’s Amberley, which is anchored by a Countdown supermarket, is up for sale via a property syndicate.

Tomorrow is the final day to register for the New Zealand Food & Grocery Council webinar on the new Grocery Supply Code of Conduct.

The flow of dollars through supermarket tills continues to grow, with demand for staples and ‘fakeaways’ increasing.

Crombie & Price is recalling two types of Wallaby brand Cookie Dough Bites due to the possible presence of an allergen, namely milk.

The New Zealand Food and Grocery Council is offering grocery suppliers a comprehensive training programme on the Grocery Supply Code of Conduct.

A new 432 square metre Four Square has opened in the South Taranaki town of Waverley.

Foodstuffs North Island in partnership with not-for-profit Nourished for Nil has opened the Hawke’s Bay’s first social supermarket.

In an open letter to industry, Pierre Van Heerden sets out his expectations for both retailers and suppliers.

Foodstuffs’ price rises were ahead of supplier increases for the fifth month running, but remain consistently below FPI.

Fruit and vegetables such as grapes, tomatoes, cucumbers, and nectarines contributed to a rise in monthly prices in August, after a contraction in July.

George Weston Foods Baking NZ will produce Ploughmans Country Grains loaves in Te Reo Māori packaging with an English translation to mark Te Wiki o te Reo Māori. T

BP is the foundation partner for Woolworth’s incoming loyalty scheme, Everyday Rewards.

Could edible packaging and potato milk soon be hitting the market in New Zealand?

New entrants to and online competitors in New Zealand’s $22bn grocery sector have been given extra leeway to comply with new unit pricing following consultation on the draft regulations.

The gluten-free specialist has upsized into a new factory and is adopting a “defensive strategy” in its entry into Australia.

The recent monthly supplier price increase trend – driven by frozen in August – could be the harbinger of a ‘new normal’ when it comes to food pricing, according to Infometrics.

There is only one area where New Zealanders plan to increase their spending in the short term and that is groceries, according to Tony Alexander’s latest spending plans survey.

Goodman Fielder has discontinued its Edmonds brand frozen pastry products, saying they were no longer commercially viable.

The change both supermarket groups wanted and a claim from NZFGC that retailers had been trying to take advantage of the time before the code was implemented.

NZFGC boss Raewyn Bleakley says the long-awaited code will help create “a better and fairer grocery sector”.

Foodstuffs North Island’s 300-plus grocery stores recorded 3,900 incidents of retail from May to July this year, a 59% increase year-on-year, and up almost 19% on the last quarter.  

The findings of an inquiry following a complaint from the manufacturer fail to go its way.

Almost all of the top grocery retail executives canvassed believe private label will be a major and growing source of revenue.

Persistent price inflation continues to push up the number of dollars flowing through supermarket tills.

Woolworths Group CEO Brad Banducci says “the short-term outlook remains challenging” in New Zealand, after earnings fall by a fifth.

Woolworths New Zealand will be adding further security measures to its stores and upskilling team members dealing with conflict situations as part of a previously announced $45m security investment.

The vanilla bean business signs three deals in two countries with globally known retailers.

Woolworths New Zealand is donating an additional $1.5m to its food rescue and food welfare partners. 

Countdown Bethlehem is the first supermarket to rebrand as Woolworths New Zealand, following the announcement by the ASX-listed group in July.

A month into the job and Pierre van Heerden tells the Ticker he has been fielding concerns from suppliers.

Foodstuffs North Island has celebrated the co-op’s achievers at its annual awards held at Auckland’s Viaduct Event Centre.

The craft chocolate company launches a new everyday range, which it describes as its first major expansion since it was founded a decade ago.

The Labour campaign pledge to remove GST from fresh fruit and vegetables has left industry asking questions about how the policy would be implemented.

Woolworths New Zealand’s newest wholesale agreement will see it supply groceries to National Retail Group’s KwikMart membership group.

Foodstuffs North Island and Palmerston North Methodist Social Services have opened a Social Supermarket in Palmerston North, Koha Kai Whare.

Annual food prices are still moving up but monthly growth turns negative for the first time since 2021, with avocados, oranges and tomatoes helping the cause.

Foodstuffs’ price increases were ahead of supplier increases on the same product categories measured in the Food Price Index in June 2023 for the fourth month running.

Foodstuffs North Island is collaborating with community partners, Nourished for Nil, to open Napier’s first-of-its-kind social supermarket to combat food insecurity.

A Mataura resident was the winner of a South Island giveaway earlier this month, receiving $9,999 worth of Four Square gift cards in celebration of the supermarket brand’s 99th birthday.

The Auckland beverage business lands its largest contract to date, entering hundreds of stores in Australia.

Bakery saw the largest month-on-month increase in costs in July, which saw a spike in monthly price hikes by suppliers as input pressures persist.

Life Health Foods is recalling a specific batch of its Naked Kitchen brand Japanese Vegetable Curry due to the presence of an undeclared allergen, namely milk.

The consumer advocate asks the watchdog to investigate Woolworths and Foodstuffs for potential breaches of the Fair Trading Act.

New regulations requiring grocery retailers to consistently and clearly display pricing by weight, volume or number are coming into effect at the end of August.

The Wellington investor has been considering its options for the business since taking full control of it last year.

New Word’s Family2Family appeal resulted in 23,867 donated food bags being supplied to City Missions and foodbanks across New Zealand.

The cost of living for the average household increased by 7.2% in the 12 months to June 2023, according to Stats NZ.

Venerdi is recalling of specific batches of its Gluten Freedom brand Broken Black Rice & Polenta Sourdough due to the presence of an undeclared allergen, namely sesame.

A new partnership between Woolworths New Zealand and Netball New Zealand sees the supermarket group become the naming rights partner of the Future Ferns.

Woolworths NZ’s MD tells the Ticker how closer ties with the group’s Australian parent will affect the products on the supermarket chain’s shelves.

Woolworths New Zealand has initiated a full review of its store network, with an eye to beefing up supermarket numbers and consolidating brands.

Walter & Wild is offloading the rump of the Hansells business it bought in 2018 in a deal that sees the brand being taken in-house by its contract manufacturer.

The Woolworths group follows up last week’s pledge to double down on its trans-Tasman connection with the expansion of its Australian rapid delivery service into NZ.

Foodstuffs North Island participated in the Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai Cook-Off – which took place at St Matthew-in-the-City.

The watchdog fires off warning letters after uncovering potentially anti-competitive conduct towards Ben Nathan’s now closed online retailer, The Honest Grocer.

MetroMart is the latest retail brand to sign a wholesale agreement with grocery company Woolworths New Zealand.

How the small Kiwi venture landed the backing of the world’s number two producer of wines and spirits, and how it will help drive growth.

A new $2.5m Four Square has officially opened its doors today in Auckland’s Onehunga, owned and operated by local business-woman Alex Gage-Brown.

One of the final alumni of Foodstuffs’ now defunct Foodstarter programme is gearing up for distribution in the North Island co-operative’s stores.

Countdown is recalling specific batches of its Woolworths brand Pickled Onions as the product may contain foreign matter, namely glass.

The Woolworths brand is returning to NZ as part of the group’s ongoing transformation plan, which will also see $400m invested in stores and a new DC built too.

Pierre van Heerden sets out his priorities and the timetable for his first report on the state of grocery competition in NZ.

Work on a break-up of the supermarket duopoly is being “held in reserve” in order to let the effects of the current round of reforms percolate through the $22bn sector.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has opened consultation on a review into anti-competitive land agreements across the wider economy.

First Union members who work in supermarkets are the latest group of workers to be formally accepted by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to begin negotiations for a Fair Pay Agreement.

Foodstuffs’ price increases were ahead of supplier increases on the same product categories measured in the Food Price Index in June for the third month running.

The former Sanitarium executive and ex-NZFGC chair will start in the role on Thursday.

The search has started for an independent provider to weigh in on disputes between grocery suppliers and retailers, ruling on retail and wholesale claims of up to $5m.

Foodstuffs-owned Pak’nSave says its artificial intelligence-powered online mealmaker tool for customers is proving popular, being accessed by more than 33,000 people since it launched a month ago.

Foodstuffs North Island’s wholesale foodservice distributor, Gilmours, also saw a strong FY23.

Bakery costs rose the most month-on-month, with larger rises than previously reported in chilled foods and grocery too, according to Infometrics.

Woolworths New Zealand agrees 12.3% wage increase over two years for supply chain teams in a new Collective Employment Agreement with FIRST Union

A drive to value and the tourist trade support sales at Pak’nSave and Foodstuffs’ foodservice distributor Trents.

Foodstuffs New Zealand is planning to turn its attention to scope 3 emissions this year, according to its recently appointed inaugural head of environmental social governance.

After almost 20 years of working in supermarkets, Mike Turney has taken the reins as the new owner operator of Four Square Tokomaru Bay.

Foodstuffs has launched an inaugural Emerging Supplier Competition searching for new products with the potential to disrupt a category and change the way consumers shop.

Inflation continues to push up the number of dollars flowing through supermarket tills, with confectionery and yoghurt and dairy desserts in a sweet spot for unit growth.

The Warehouse is expanding its fresh fruit and vegetable trial to a further five stores and three new regions.

Foodstuffs is preparing for the removal of single-use plastic bags from all supermarkets and grocery stores from 1 July, as part of a government phase-out of certain single-use plastics.

The plant-based venture is scouting for a foothold in what is perceived to be a less competitive NZ market, as grocery gets streamlined at home.

Countdown says the weather across the East Coast has impacted the supply of fruit and veges.

Countdown is consulting with around 400 of its meat department team and FIRST Union on proposed changes to its North Island meat department team structure. 

New World Hutt City is recalling a specific batch of its New World Hutt City brand NZ Beef Prime Mince as the product may contain foreign matter, namely white plastic.

“The start date of the grocery commissioner is expected very soon,” says Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Duncan Webb.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened the $46m Warkworth Pak’nSave

When the long-awaited draft code was released, two things were immediately apparent – and one surprise.

New World Aokautere at Palmerston North is recalling a specific batch of its New World Aokautere brand NZ Beef Prime Mince due to the possible presence of foreign matter, namely metal fragments.

The main drivers of food price inflation may have peaked, according to Foodstuffs North Island boss Chris Quin.

Food price inflation remains above 12% in May, although dips away from April’s high of 12.5%.

Countdown is not renewing its rewards partnership with AA Smartfuel.

The 24-page document covers everything from range reviews and delistings to buy-ins and shrinkage, as well as the scale of the penalties that could be imposed.

“Frozen goods, produce, and grocery departments saw the largest monthly movements, with a variety of products seeing larger increases,” says Infometrics.

Foodstuffs-owned Pak’nSave has introduced an AI-powered mealmaker tool for customers.

Entries are now open for the 2023 New World Wine Awards, kicking off the 21st annual search for the top drops under $25.

Foodstuffs North Island has partnered with West Auckland-based community trust Visionwest to open a social supermarket for Auckland.

Foodstuffs North Island grocers recorded a 38.2% increase in retail crime between February and April of this year, according to the co-operative.

Countdown has committed to pricing its Odd Bunch range at least 20% lower than the standard shelf price of comparable fruit and veg.

Consumer New Zealand is making a final push in its “dodgy specials” campaign against supermarkets.

The $2bn snacking department continues to buck the trend, delivering both unit and value growth in NZ.

But the supermarket chain scales back the range of products affected, compared with its 2022 promotion.

CEO Tiffani Graydon says the company now has its own brand in 350 Tesco stores, as it transitions from supplying overseas retailers with wine for private label.

Foodstuffs’ New World brand secured the top supermarket spot in the Canstar Blue 2023 customer satisfaction survey.

“We believe it’s just a matter of time before we’re the leader in the energy drink category” – the brain food brand throws the gauntlet down to V Energy and Red Bull.

The Warehouse has added $5 butter to its private label range, moving away from selling the Tararua brand as its loss-leader as it builds out its grocery offering.

Countdown is recalling a specific batch of its Countdown brand 5 Satay Flavoured Chicken Kebabs due to the presence of an undeclared allergen, namely soy.

Foodstuffs and the New Zealand Food Innovation Network will host a series of free workshops starting this week aimed at supporting small suppliers on their retail grocery journey.

The government funds oversight of the sector, including the all-important Grocery Commissioner role.

Measures that will improve labour costs and availability are among the top priorities for the industry.

There are fewer avocados on supermarket shelves this month because the avocado season has run short, according to Foodstuffs North Island produce merchandise manager, Brigit Corson.

“Divestment is an option on the table as we continue to monitor the effectiveness of the reforms,” Duncan Webb says in response to Westpac’s report.

Foodstuffs North Island prices were 0.2% above the Grocery Supplier Cost Index  in April, as the underlying drivers of inflation pile up, according to the supermarket group.

The social supermarket owned and operated by the Wellington City Mission and backed by Foodstuffs North Island has now been up and running for two years.

A vegan meal topper and sauce company has its sights set on an expansion to NZ, and is gearing up to raise investment to support its growth plan.

Retail sales continued to increase in April, with a 0.7% rise for the month, similar to last month, according to Stats NZ.

“There are some signs emerging of less intense cost increases filtering through the system,” Infometrics’ Brad Olsen says, as April GSCI comes in at 10%.

Easter temporarily reversed the inflationary trend of more dollars being spent buying fewer items, as unit sales flipped into growth, albeit at a subdued level.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners New Zealand is recalling specific batches of its Barista Bros brand Double Espresso Ice Coffee due to a packaging fault leading to a possible spoilage risk.

Inflation drives growth although the extreme weather over summer hurt online sales at Woolworths’ NZ Food business.

The ANZ pet sector deal gets the green light from NZ’s competition watchdog but is still waiting for a decision from Australian regulators.

Coca-Cola in New Zealand is joining its global counterparts by transitioning its Sprite beverage brand to clear plastic bottles from its trademark green.

The New Zealand Food & Grocery Council has partnered with Australian consultancy, NextGen Group, to provide support for its members ahead of the launch of the new Grocery Supply Code.

Foodstuffs North Island, in partnership with the Food Innovation Network, is holding a series of inaugural Emerging Supplier Forums.

New World has launched its Family2Family Foodbank Appeal to help Kiwis have access to healthy and affordable food.

Countdown owner Woolworths has teamed up with Thematic to enhance customer and employee experiences in New Zealand and Australia using real-time feedback data.

The French bakery has successfully built out a grocery channel business, most recently adding a key supermarket account.

Foodstuff North Island third social supermarket opened in Tokoroa six months ago in partnership with Buttabean Motivation which had an existing BBM fitness and community group in the Waikato town.

Foodstuffs managing director Chris Quin says New Zealanders face a difficult winter as inflation pressures

Annual food price inflation hits a new high for the cycle, fuelled by grocery food items such as crisps, eggs and yoghurt six-packs.

Cost increases from suppliers to Foodstuffs supermarkets continued to be elevated in March 2023, marking the sixth straight month of double-digit results.

Countdown is aiming to fundraise $100,000 this week for the RainbowYOUTH organisation which supports queer, gender-diverse and intersex rangatahi.

Grocery retailers will have 12 months to fall in line with new unit pricing measures coming into force as part of the government’s reform of the $22bn sector, according to draft regulations released today.

Harraways’ head of marketing and product innovation, Peter Cox, talks to Organics Aotearoa New Zealand about the evolution of the company’s organic oats range, supply chain challenges, and the future of New Zealand’s agricultural sector.

It included $5.6m in goodwill for the premium cracker brand, with a significant revenue and profit bump following.

New Zealanders are more disposed to hot cross buns than chocolate eggs, according to a survey from Foodstuffs.

Consumer NZ says Foodstuffs has largely rejected findings of misleading pricing practices but Woolworths NZ is taking the concerns on board.

Sarah Balle, the owner of online supermarket startup Supie said the company will be looking to undertake a “small capital raise” to fund the Auckland-centric firm’s expansion across the country.

Cash-strapped consumers sought affordable indulgence from confectionery, which posted double-digit value and unit growth.

The Soulfresh founder is evolving his ‘better-for-you’ business to become ‘better-for-us’.

Across Aotearoa, Countdown has sold 1.8 million Easter confectionery products in the run-up to the holiday.

The company’s owner says its liquidation has no impact on the government-backed Sustainable Foods business that he leads.

The ready-to-eat meal manufacturer is being liquidated, with no white knight having emerged following its administration in January.

Food and drink industry appointments and people moves for the week to 31 March.

Co-owner Darren Guo has overhauled the Auckland organics retailer and is now looking for external capital to fund an ambitious five-year growth plan.

“While our expansion plans were put on hold due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we are now resuming our growth plans as we emerge from the pandemic,” says Circle K NZ boss Iqubal Basra.

Foodstuffs North Island has officially opened its new $20m cross dock and depot facility in Hastings.  

The consumer advocacy body analysed products from Countdown, New World and Pak’nSave stores in the immediate vicinity of The Warehouse stores.

Grocery sales for 1H23 jumped 34% at the red sheds, driven by consumers seeking value.

Suppliers should retain control of where their products are sold as part of a reform of the grocery sector – although the same protection should be afford to the duopoly’s private label ranges.

A faster introduction of the proposed grocery supply code has been mooted, with new Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Duncan Webb called upon to create the first version rather than the Commerce Commission.

Vertical farming venture Greengrower is producing and supplying leafy greens to the grocery and foodservice channels.

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Foodstuffs North Island has delivered to its first external wholesale customer, Kennerley Gourmet Grocery.

Circle K is the latest retail brand to sign a wholesale agreement with grocery company Woolworths New Zealand.

Countdown Mairangi Bay has reopened, after being closed for six weeks due to significant damage suffered in the Anniversary weekend floods.

Fonterra wrote down the value of its New Zealand and Asian consumer brands by a total of $162m in the first half of FY23 as it battled higher input costs and ongoing pressure on margins.

“A significant investment was needed to take Swappa Bottle from a pilot product to a nationwide proposition, and the economics to do this did not stack up,” Synlait says.

There will be a long tail of effects on fresh product availability and prices following the Auckland floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, according to Foodstuffs.

Consumers are continuing to change shopping habits to make their grocery budget go further, according to  Foodstuffs’ latest Customer Insights Survey.

The impact of extreme weather on the fresh category starts to show, with the price of tomatoes jumping 117%.

“Domestic inflation pressures have not eased substantially yet, and weather-related disruptions will only reinforce some of the pressures already in the system,” says Infometrics as supplier costs rise again in February.

Countdown Timaru North opened last Thursday, 9 March, which means the supermarket group’s nearby Church Street store is now closed. 

Foodstuffs North Island has committed $250,000 in the form of targeted assistance to help growers and partners to rebuild after Cyclone Gabrielle.

Suppliers ranging from emerging seafood specialist Mills Bay Mussels through to meat leader ANZCO have been recognised at the co-op’s partnership awards.

Consumers are planning to spend less across the board apart from on groceries, according to the latest sentiment survey from former BNZ chief economist Tony Alexander.

Countdown has pledged $750,000 of targeted support to help growers who have been impacted the most severely by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Foodstuffs North Island is trialling a stock management tool designed to help supermarkets reduce the amount of food that goes to waste.

The biennial business-to-business Foodstuffs Expo is set to take place at Claudelands Events Centre Hamilton over 8 and 9 March.   

Consumers shopping for cyclone emergency supplies pushed batteries, water, and shelf-stable fruit into the fastest-growing value categories.

Pak’nSave owner operators from across the North Island have donated over $575,000 to help communities affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.

The Competition Commission has published its statement of preliminary issues relating to grocery group Woolworth’s proposed purchase of Australia’s Petspiration Group.

Food and beverage industry people moves for the week to 24 February.

A tough trading environment featuring higher costs and lower sales was evident in Woolworths’ interim results, with earnings from its NZ business dropping sharply.

Customers at Woolworths and Countdown supermarkets in Australia and New Zealand can support communities impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle with their shopping.

Costco Wholesale New Zealand Limited reported a $12.5m loss for the year to 28 August 2022 but it opened its doors to Kiwi shoppers a month after the end of that period.

The owner-operator of New World Whitianga has been undertaking food deliveries to cut-off Coromandel communities via boat.

Foodstuffs North Island’s IT team have deployed satellite-based internet Starlink kits to help restore links to affected stores cut off by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Foodstuffs has confirmed all Pak’nSave and New World stores are open nationwide, although a “couple” of Four Square outlets remain closed.

Consumers raced to supermarket aisles last week to stock up on emergency essentials – and some non essentials – ahead of Cyclone Gabrielle, according to data from IRI.

Comvita, Delegat and Tegel are among the suppliers facing disruption, while the NZFGC is gathering information to feed into short and longer term government response.

The big box retailer is trailing a limited range at six stores, but plans to add more products and more locations as it continues its push into grocery.

Supermarket chain Countdown has been able to open Countdown Gisborne today, and it expects Countdown Napier will open at 1pm today.

Foodstuffs New Zealand says all of its PAK’nSAVE stores are now open with just its New World Onekawa in Napier still closed.

FSNI will be able to fly product into its stores in cut-off centres such as Wairoa in the Gisborne region.

LeaderBrands is among the food companies grappling with product shortages, following the cyclone.

Countdown has been unable to open three of its stores today in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Some Countdown stores are closed in the worst affected areas.

“Although it seems like there is potential for supplier cost increases to have plateaued, we’re not certain about the change in trend yet,” Brad Olsen says.

Grocery groups are working closely with store teams and suppliers to ensure continuity of supply as Cyclone Gabrielle starts to lash the country.

Online supermarket challenger Supie has launched a multi-channel marketing campaign.

Last year 30,000 people said bought flowers to mark Valentine’s Day, with sales for bunches picking up in the week of February 14 and nearly half – or some 45% – of those being sold on the day itself.

Woolworths’ has filed a clearance application with the Commerce Commission as part of its proposed $619m Petspiration purchase.

Advertising executive and the stepdaughter of company founder Pic Picot, Aimee McCammon, has stepped into the top job at the Nelson-based nut butter brand.

The snack manufacturer is marking its 40th birthday with a limited edition supersized cookie, ahead of breaking into a new treat category later this month.

Pak’nSave Wairau Road in Auckland re-opened for business at 7am Saturday 4 February after being flooded during the city’s extreme weather event.

CEO Jesse Newson says that with Covid fading into the distance and PE firm Pioneer backing its growth plans, it’s now about “getting on and doing it”.

The ready to eat meal manufacturer is seeking to recapitalise after enduring challenging conditions.

The group wants more work to be done of the proposed grocery wholesale supply regulatory backstop, but stopped short of asking for it to be turfed out of proposed legislation like rival Woolworths.

New Prime Minister Chris Hipkins’ reshuffle has seen the commerce and consumer affairs portfolio land outside cabinet.

Countdown has donated $100,000 to help organisations providing on-the-ground assistance as part of its response to the Auckland floods.

MD Spencer Sonn says the government should abandon the measure because of its “unintended consequences”.

The Countdown owner wants obligations on suppliers to participate in the new wholesale regime.

Voluntary administrators have been appointed to Wellington food manufacturer Rosa Foods – a company linked to the chief executive of alternative protein player Sustainable Foods, Justin Lemmens.

New World Newmarket in Auckland re-opened for business yesterday.

The appointment of Hein Schumacher is seen as a sign of the global FMCG giant’s commitment to food.

Grocery sector stakeholders are speaking on the Grocery Industry Competition Bill at select committee this week.

Dairy, confectionery and pet were some of the winners in the insight firm’s NZ grocery rankings, while the cycling of 2021’s lockdowns saw beverages suffer.

The closing weeks of 2022 saw some eyewatering numbers coming from food, with the amount spent on groceries in December up 10.2% on a year earlier and a huge 17.1% up on 2020.

“We will continue to strive to look for everything that we can do in that space,” says Hipkins of supermarket competition and regulation to bring down food prices.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened Four Square Eden Terrace in Auckland, and a new $14m New World in Taumarunui.

Foodstuffs and Woolworths are being forced to set up independent wholesale divisions but suppliers should not be forced to take part, says the association.

The Food Compass could help consumers make informed choices about the food they are purchasing.

The Countdown owner says resistance from a number of large global suppliers is putting the goal of the proposed wholesale regime at risk.

The new wholesaling regime should give customers access to a full range of products, even if suppliers have contracted out of the scheme, according to The Warehouse Group.

Businesses and consumers should prepare for increased transport costs as road user charge increases and Russian diesel sanctions take effect next month, says national road freight industry group Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand.

Foodstuffs Own Brands is recalling a specific batch of its Pams brand Carrot Batons due to the possible presence of E.coli.

Foodstuffs says prices at its stores grew at a slower rate than the Food Price Index for December 2022.

Two Foodstuffs South Island co-operative stores in Wānaka have been fined for opening on Good Friday.

The consumer advocate says it has received a raft of “concerning examples” of poor pricing practices following the launch of a campaign looking at supermarket deals.

Online supermarket start-up Supie says it has reached a new level of customer numbers that has allowed it to provide more competitive pricing.

The impact of the summer cost change moratorium on the December index means it is not yet clear if cost pressures will ease in 2023, according to Infometrics.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is set to start consultation on the implementation of unit pricing, after announcing new rules in late December.

The acquisition of the Australasian pet retailer has been funded by the supermarket group’s Endeavour exit.

Food price inflation is likely to continue into next year after the challenges facing food businesses have become “entrenched”, according to Foodstuffs managing director Chris Quin.

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Increasing prices for cheddar cheese, yoghurt, and standard two-litre milk were the largest drivers within grocery food, says Stats NZ.

The Australian-based pasta maker has reported significant increases in its New Zealand profits during the pandemic.

“Recent acceleration in the costs of less volatile items like general grocery goods reinforces pervasive cost pressures,” according to Infometrics’ Brad Olsen.

New World Ohakune is recalling specific batches of its New World Ohakune brand NZ Beef Prime Mince, NZ Pork Mince and Beef Burger Patties as the product may contain foreign matter, namely metal.

Foodstuffs North Island is partnering with with textile and garment waste recycler Upparel to repurpose waste that comes from distribution centre uniforms and end-of-life personal protective equipment.

New Zealand data tracking and reporting company Sumfood has developed a free app to let consumers know which supermarket has the cheapest price, per person, for groceries.

Two out of three Foodstuffs customers are planning to buy ham for their main Xmas protein – followed by chicken, lamb, fish, and then turkey.

Auckland’s New World Green Bay has re-opened following an 11-month $8m rebuild.

Fleur Foods has hit BP stores with a ‘poppa’ size range of offerings.

The government is investigating claims of peach dumping after Heinz Watties alleged its sales, market share and profit were all being damaged by the practice.

Countdown owner Woolworths New Zealand saw its pretax profit slump even as revenue rose more than 6%, with increasing costs putting the squeeze on the retailer.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened a new Four Square in Auckland’s Remuera – the seventh new store development for the North Island co-op since July.

Goodman Fielder, Tip Top and AS Wilcox and Sons were among the winners at the supermarket’s annual supplier partnership awards.

But it is criticised by Consumer NZ, which highlights the co-op’s use of the tech since 2018 and says it is the only major retailer in NZ scanning shoppers’ faces.

The Auckland company is trialling production of its plant-based butter in South America.

New World has taken two golds in this year’s Reader’s Digest Quality Service Awards, with Liquorland and food delivery service Fitfood among the winners taking gold medals in their respective categories.

The Grocery Industry Competition Bill is being introduced under urgency, with the government aiming to pass it by the middle of 2023.

Countdown’s Food for Good Christmas Appeal with The Salvation Army is underway, with the supermarket pledging to match donations up to $200,000.

Countdown’s 18,000-strong supermarket team will receive a 19% wage increase over two years after the company formally signed a new collective agreement.

Countdown’s $22m, 3000 square metre Alexandra store has opened, bringing with it more than 50 jobs to the region.

Prolife Foods is recalling all batches and all dates of its Mother Earth brand Chilli Crispy Mix due to the presence of an undeclared allergen.

The insights firm names the products and brands benefitting the most from consumer behaviour in the current high-inflation environment.

Customers are changing their shopping habits to stretch their food budget as record inflation bites.

Source and Supply Food Co is recalling a specific batch of Costco brand shredded chicken due to incorrect use-by date labels.

Demand is shifting from premium categories to essentials like groceries as cost of living pressures grow, leading to spike in sales.

Cookie Time has nabbed top spot in the Coalface FMCG Distributor survey for the second year in a row.

Foodstuffs North Island says it is ‘delivering at pace’ on implementing the Commerce Commission’s final recommendations from the retail grocery market survey, engaging with almost 100 retailers as part developing wholesale services.

The supermarket chain is set to move from single category to entire department reviews, which could see it increase its store clusters and ranging.

“We have had to change the way we make things,” says owner Marcus Moore, as the ice cream maker grapples with difficult conditions.

Costco assistant general merchandise manager Jody Farrell tells the NZFGC conference about its best sellers.

And why the upcoming grocery industry competition bill is not about suppliers, “it is about consumers, it is about New Zealanders”.

Supplier prices were 10% higher in October than the same time last year, with the largest number of items in five years going up in price.

Fonterra, Foodstuffs North Island, Silver Fern Farms and Lion will all be vying for gongs at the 2022 Deloitte Top 200 Awards. 

Discounter disruption, competition and convenience pressures are altering sales channels for grocery, the market research company tells NZFGC’s conference.

Lower sales and higher wages could see Countdown’s half year earnings slashed by 50%, according to parent Woolworths.

Food and beverage sector stakeholders from around the country have descended on Queenstown for the New Zealand Food & Grocery Council annual conference.

Around 18,000 Countdown First Union members across New Zealand will receive wage increases of around 12% after accepting a new Collective Agreement, which also includes a commitment to work collaboratively on security and staffing issues.

Woolworths New Zealand is putting two freehold development sites, located in Christchurch and Waimakariri District, up for sale.

NZFGC’s new boss on guiding principles, headwinds, and silver bullets ahead of the association’s annual conference in Queenstown this week.

Foodstuffs has opened its Social Supermarket in Otūmoetai, Tauranga.

The Auckland-based jerky manufacturer says its new investor has not only injected growth capital it has also unlocked a 20x capacity increase.

Foodstuffs’ no-frills banner rejects “shiny new collectables campaigns” hours after Countdown launches its new bricks collection, as the battle for Christmas consumers heats up.

Countdown has launched its new collectable promotion today, bringing back Countdown Bricks this year with a farm theme featuring suppliers.

A new general manager with a strong history in FMCG sales has taken over at Kellogg New Zealand, a mainstay in the country’s $341m grocery breakfast category.

Foodstuffs is recalling its Pams brand Alfalfa Sprouts, Salad Sprouts, Sandwich Selection Sprouts, and Spicy Sprouts Combo due to the possible presence of Salmonella.

Grocery heavyweight Foodstuffs has used its procurement power to broker a deal to reduce escalating fuel costs for suppliers to its Leigh Fisheries subsidiary.

Foodstuffs is launching a new customer insight led media business, Foodstuffs Precision Media, in partnership with global customer data science experts, dunnhumby.  

Countdown has opened its new 2,300 square metre Taupō South supermarket.

Foodstuffs has opened a new 2,580 square metre New World in Mangawhai, Northland.

Foodstuffs and The Warehouse are participating in a new soft plastic recycling scheme in Tairāwhiti, according to The Packaging Forum.

Following the popularity of its Dry July pop-up, Lisa King’s alcohol-free beverage business is now importing other brands and has plans for a permanent store.

The 2022 New World Wine Awards Top 50 wines under $25 has been released.

Foodstuffs New Zealand managing director Chris Quin says grocery chains globally are all battling the same set of supply-side challenges as well as changes in consumer behaviour.

In September this year, the cost of more than 5,400 products went up – almost double the number in September 2019.

Foodstuffs North Island and Linkt Community Trust are partnering to bring a social supermarket to the Tauranga suburb of Otumoetai.

Snack manufacturer Griffin’s, has collaborated with Kiwi artist, FLOX, for this year’s Breast Cancer Foundation NZ partnership.

Why a pair of MBA grads decided to take a tilt at NZ’s tough grocery market.

Six Pams products are recalled out of precaution, while frozen berry importers place berries which can be traced back to Serbia on hold.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened a $7.5m New World supermarket in Auckland’s Newmarket.

Foodstuffs South Island has received resource consent to develop a new 8,108 square metre Pak’nSave in Canterbury’s Rolleston. 

Foodstuffs North Island is marking a century in business this year, having been launched in 1922 as a co-operative of a few grocers.

Craft beer supermarket sales are booming, so which Kiwi brand reigns supreme in the channel and who grew the most during the pandemic?

The Warehouse says it will continue to expand its grocery range after seeing 40% growth, while Costco finally invites shoppers in.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened its new social supermarket in Whangārei in partnership with community organisation 155 Whare Kai.

The latest figures are a reminder of where we were this time last year – still battling Covid outbreaks and in the early days of a sustained period of food price inflation.

The consumer advocate is “not convinced” that grocery retailers are following Commerce Commission recommendations for clear pricing.

Foodstuffs North Island has confirmed it has transferred ownership of its former Kaitaia Pak’nSave site to Far North Holdings, the organisation working on the town centre master planning.

Foodstuffs New Zealand has confirmed marketer Giselle Bleakley is joining the group as the new head of marketing and customer experience at New World.

There could be significant advantages for wholesale customers in having access to the duopoly’s private label products, says the government.

Foodstuffs North Island is partnering with 155 Whare Āwhina to open Whangarei’s first social supermarket.

There’s a new name at the top of the Coalface Supermarket Stores rankings, dominated by Twin Agencies for eight years.

Price increases hit a new peak in the current upward cycle, which has now been running for 17 months.

Countdown has for the first time shared a monthly average for the cost increases requested by suppliers following requests for rises of up to 72% in August 2022.

Business, retail and hospitality stakeholders welcome the end of mask mandates and the scrapping of the traffic light system.

Produce and chilled see the steepest monthly increases, according to the Infometrics – Foodstuffs NZ Grocery Supplier Cost Index. 

Consumers are switching to cheaper options, so how healthy are private label options compared with banded products?

Countdown now has te reo Māori available as a language option for customers at its self-service checkouts.

Countdown has opened the first supermarket designed and built to meet rigorous Green Star standards in Christchurch.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened a new $10m custom-built transport and warehouse facility in Whangarei.

Foodstuffs North Island chief executive Chris Quin has joined the board at Giltrap Group in a directorship role.

The boss of the group’s new wholesale entity lifts the lid on how it operates, the state of negotiations, and how Huckleberry got across the line.

The supermarket group’s new wholesale business strikes a deal with Huckleberry, and says it is in talks with more than 50 other retailers and organisations.

Henry’s stores are joining the Liquorland franchise, with plans to transition all of them to the latter’s operating model and brand by March 2023.

Infometrics has released a graph illustrating how grocery supplier cost increases have been accelerating over the last year.

Suppliers ranging from dairy giant Fonterra through to oat milk startup Boring Milk were recognised at the co-op’s inaugural Foodstuffs Partnership Awards on Monday.

New World has partnered with Plastics New Zealand on a new initiative to help educate children on the importance of recycling and reducing waste to landfill.

Kiwis spent $16.9bn in supermarkets in the past year but inflation and unit trends means fewer groceries in the basket

Foodstuffs North Island has received resource consent from Hastings District Council for a new $21m New World in Flaxmere.

Cost pressures have pushed the Countdown owner’s earnings down but it is still delivering ahead of its pre-pandemic numbers.

Commerce Minister David Clark says regulations could be used to force the duopoly to provide wholesale supply at certain terms, including price and range.

NZFGC and Consumer NZ welcome the government’s wholesale intervention.

The co-op unveils one of its promised pricing initiatives, introducing Everyday Low Price tickets at its New World banners.

The inaugural Foodstuffs Partnership Awards are set to take place on 29 August, at Te Pae, Christchurch.  

CEO Doug Paulin on how the supermarket co-op’s review has impacted the seafood company.

There have been some notable shifts in the entries to this year’s New World Wine Awards, which begin judging today, including a jump in new red wine varieties, rosé and prosecco, according to Foodstuffs.

Foodstuffs has opened its third social supermarket.

“We’re adding value back into a category that has had a lot of price and quality erosion,” says co-founder Roman Jewell after securing a significant range extension in Australia.

Foodstuffs co-operatives have held food price increases below inflation for the third consecutive month, with the latest Stats NZ Food Price Index showing an annual rise of 7.4% in July.

Over 45% of Kiwis have recently changed their diet, with increased living costs, sustainability and health acting as the main contributors, according to research from meal kit company Hello Fresh.

Foodstuffs will continue its price rollback for a further three months with Countdown also looking at ways to keep prices down.

Annual food price inflation has breached the 7% mark for the second time this year – just the second time in a decade – with the latest data showing food prices 7.4% higher in July this year than last.

Grocery sector challenger Supie has raised $3.5m via public platform Snowball Effect.

Foodstuffs North Island has started work on a new $40m Pak’nSave store in Warkworth.

The global brand is coming after NZ’s $270m yoghurt category, launching three ranges of its flagship greek yoghurt in Countdown.

Food and beverage manufacturers cannot continue to absorb rising costs in the face of “a perfect storm” of increases, according to the New Zealand Food and Grocery Council.

Cost of living concerns impact spending sentiment with consumers planning to cut back on most purchases.

Countdown has launched its Food for Good winter appeal, pledging to match public donations up to $100,000 via The Foodbank Project.

Private label sales surge as Kiwi shoppers hunt for value, so what are the top F&B categories to see growth?

A list of the top food and beverage categories in which private label sales have gained the most momentum over the past year – and those where sales have contracted – reveal some surprising results.

A new index commissioned by the co-operative and produced by the economic consultancy shows the climbing cost of groceries sold by suppliers.

Foodstuffs North Island is updating New World bulk bins in partnership with long-term supplier Prolife Foods, owner of the Alison’s Pantry brand.

“Despite our best efforts, we were never able to make the sales in store that were necessary for the business,” a co-owner tells the Ticker.

Grocery spend continues to grow, driven by a 30-year inflation high, with the latest IRI data illustrating the ‘spend-more-get-less’ theme and a move to private label.

Rising inflation and continuing supply chain challenges are leading to surging demand for private label products with value and convenience driving growth.

Supermarket group Woolworths has named New Zealander Scott Perkins as its new chair.

Countdown’s pilot project to remove single-use plastic produce bags starts in 19 stores today, adding to the Metro Herne Bay store, which opened without the bags in late June. 

The grocery industry has been transformed by the pandemic and omnichannel is now the rule rather than the exception, writes NielsenIQ.

New World Wairoa has opened its doors today, Tuesday 19 July, bringing a new 2,009 square metre store to the Hawke’s Bay town.

Countdown is underway with its newest collectibles collaboration.

Pak’nSave was FSNI’s fastest-growing retail banner in FY22 with 5.6% same store revenue growth.

Grocery prices continue to climb and are now 7.6% higher than this time last year, with milk, potato crisps and yoghurt notably more expensive.

Foodstuffs says its co-operatives have kept price increases for customers below inflation for the second month in a row.

“The first step of making this work is understanding the customer need from these retailers who aren’t co-op members,” says the co-op’s boss, Chris Quin.

Growth slows at Foodstuffs South Island during a period when the grocery sector was put under the microscope by the Commerce Commission.

Countdown’s new $150m Auckland Fresh Distribution Centre is now officially open for business.

Delivering value does not always have to be a price play even in an inflationary environment, the research consultancy suggests.

The 20th annual New World Wine Awards are open for entries.

The commerce and consumer affairs minister releases more details of the new watchdog but there’s little detail of its exact powers.

Grocery sector stakeholders have until 10 August to provide feedback on the proposed code.

Following a five month wholesale supply pilot, the online supermarket startup is looking for expressions of interest from retailers.

Countdown is starting a pilot that will remove single-use plastic produce bags from 19 stores from 25 July, taking the total to 20 stores after Metro Herne Bay opened without them last month.

It’s the second month in a row of negative unit sales even with inflation pushing more dollars through tills.

Foodstuffs North Island has teamed up with David Letele’s Buttabean Motivation to open what will be its third social supermarket, this time in Tokoroa.

Legislation that bans major supermarkets from blocking their competitors’ access to land to set up new stores has passed into law.

Supie has opened its $5m capital raise to the public.

Foodstuffs says the first five weeks of its price rollback initiative has “saved” shoppers $6.5m.

Bay of Plenty property developer Bluehaven Group has confirmed Foodstuffs banner New World will be the first commercial tenant for its new $1bn Pāpāmoa East scheme.

Foodstuffs moves to promote Pak’nSave quality as the battle for consumer dollars heats up.

Countdown has added a fourth Metro store to its New Zealand portfolio, opening the $50m outlet in Auckland’s Herne Bay.

The co-op says differentiated cost pricing from suppliers will have to change to make wholesaling to external retailers work.

David Clark wants the Commerce Commission to use proposed new information gathering powers “praoctively” and relegate restrictive land covenants to the history books.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars are at stake for food firms keen to launch products in Countdown.

The supermarket co-op says cost increases from suppliers also grew by almost 7%.

Food price inflation is back to where it was in February – a decade long record at the time – as groceries push the index up.

The government is keeping up the public pressure – as well as holding conversations behind closed doors – in its campaign to improve competition in the grocery sector.

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The beverage brand has its roots in hospitality but has stepped up in supermarkets with a focus on growing volume while maintaining brand value.

Foodstuffs and Woolworths NZ have taken a stand against the Fair Pay Agreement Bill, arguing it will lead to reduced competition, innovation, and consumer choice – as well as higher prices.

The government’s wholesale market reform could see Foodstuffs and Countdown having to inform the grocery regulator of all supply requests, and give the watchdog the power to compel supply.

The wholesale marketplace startup has been backed by a range of early stage investors to go for growth in Australia and the US.

Hannifin is joining Air New Zealand in a newly created sustainability role.

The grocery group wants to know who could be using its wholesale service so it can gauge demand, and get suppliers in line too.

Feedback is sought on issues including which retailers should be subject to unit pricing, how said pricing should be displayed and what products should be exempt.

Foodstuffs NZ MD compares the market study response with the co-op’s Covid crisis resourcing.

The online supermarket startup is seeking growth capital to drive a big jump in revenue in 2023.

Industry funding could be part of the new regulatory framework.

New Zealand’s two major supermarket groups have responded to the government’s grocery policy plans by highlighting the role suppliers will play in establishing wholesale market access.

The seed funding gives the startup a 12 – 18 month runway as it looks to improve and deploy its tech, grow subscribers numbers and sign partnerships with Foodstuffs and Woolworths.

The new facility will shore up its South Island chilled supply chain and comes just weeks ahead of the opening of its $150m Auckland Fresh DC.

Minister David Clark says action is being taken on all of ComCom’s recommendations and further work is being done on potential store divestment.

The agency makes clear its stance, allowing the promotional activity to occur in supermarkets.

Supermarkets’ take an image hit during a year in which the $22bn duopoly-dominated sector was in the spotlight.

Countdown has opened its $18m Balclutha store after a year of construction.

The volume of retail sales was flat in the March 2022 quarter, following a strong increase in the December 2021 quarter, according to Stats NZ.

Food firms conducting the popular in-store promotion will have to think again after supermarkets suspend the activity.

The government has started its reform of the grocery sector by introducing urgent Budget night legislation to stop major supermarkets blocking competitors from accessing land for new stores.

Foodstuffs North Island has gained Rainbow Tick accreditation.

Lion is close to completing a reshaping of its NZ operations, allowing it to emerge from Covid concentrated on core.

New World has revealed its Top 30 beverages in its annual Beer & Cider Awards, and named Lion craft brand Emerson’s Weissbier its supreme winner.

MonopolyWatch NZ is urging kiwis of all political persuasions to sign Consumer NZ’s Stop the super profits petition, which was launched last week.

Applications are now open for Countdown’s Growing for Good grants which puts $50,000 of funding up for grabs for students to combat climate change.

The value retailer says it is “seriously considering” making more grocery options available.

Woolworths NZ is recalling specific batches of its Countdown brand Choc Berry Mix due to the presence of an undeclared allergen, namely milk.

“As a result of this price rollback our stores will be selling some items below cost,” according to Foodstuff NZ boss Chris Quin.

Online supermarket startup Supie has thrown its support behind Consumer NZ’s new petition calling for fairer supermarket prices. 

The brewer is looking to tap into premiumisation and sessionability trends to drive craft beer sales at its Monteith’s and Tuatara brands.

The government should regulate access to the wholesale market or set-up a state-owned wholesaler, says the consumer organisation.

The government should regulate access to the wholesale market or set-up a state-owned wholesaler, says the consumer organisation.

Taranaki bio-intensive market garden Roebuck Farm says it is an early adopter of local supermarket supply and is advocating for more of it to be established around New Zealand.

The latest four-week period sees accelerated dollar growth this year as inflation continues unabated.

The Great Price Winter Freeze takes in mostly private label items, with a handful of independent brands, but what will happen if costs go up?

Its New Zealand business could see H2 earnings drop almost 30% due to escalating costs, even as grocery prices rise.

The Auckland independent grocery chain will use the investment to expand its network, as well as upgrade existing properties.

Foodstuffs Own Brands is recalling a specific batch of its Pams brand Mini Hash Browns as the product may contain foreign matter, namely blue plastic pieces.

New World’s Family2Family Foodbank Appeal is back for 2022.

Countdown has opened its new 3,650 square metre store on Greville Road on Auckland’s North Shore.

“We’re not going to disrupt the market or build market share by offering a ‘me-too’ product at the same price,” says Berkano co-founder Nicholas Harlow.

Foodstuffs is backing a Social Supermarket in Kaitaia, and is in talks with community partners in six other regions.

Foodstuffs finishes its biscuit category review, keeping some well-known New Zealand names and adding new international brands.

Food and beverage sector appointments and people moves to the week of 22 April.

Finance minister Grant Robertson has underlined the government’s commitment to boost competition following a 30-year high in inflation.

The fruit and vege co-op will slash 40% from the power bill at its new warehouse and banana ripening facility, and is considering retro-fitting other buildings in its portfolio.

The pandemic and premiumisation prompts foodservice stalwart Kōkako to branch out into the grocery channel with a new purpose-built brand.

Foodstuffs is creating its own Grocery Price Index which will be included in a new reporting dashboard to “publicly track its progress” against the Commerce Commission grocery market review recommendations.

People must consider the impact cheap food has on the environment and whether there are better ways to help struggling families.

New World’s once-a-year fresh hops beer will this week start hitting chiller shelves.

The Wellington snack company is expanding its Upcycled Grain Project brand with US growth ramping up.

Romano’s Food Group is aiming to complete the rebuild of its Christchurch pizza factory by the last quarter of the year.

Minister David Clark feels the heat from surging food prices and says he has not ruled out going further than ComCom’s grocery market recommendations.

Some 90% of Kiwis surveyed have reported rising fuel and grocery prices are affecting their households, according to Westpac.

More than 1.7 million packs and individual Easter eggs and 1.3 million packets of hot cross buns have been sold in Countdown stores across Aotearoa in the run up to Easter.

Government proposals would require organisations to take action if they become aware of modern slavery or worker exploitation.

The 3,565 square metre store has been eight years in the planning, development and construction, said Countdown’s director of property, Matt Grainger.

A new general manager is taking the reins at Lewis Road Creamery bringing years of marketing and F&B industry experience to the premium consumer dairy brand.

Ola Berezhnaia’s Datella is hoping to grow in more supermarkets and build a following for date spreads.

The Auckland business expands into hundreds more Woolworths stores as it pushes the nascent premium cereal category across the ditch.

ComCom’s approach to improving competition in supermarkets is more strategic than it is being given credit for, says MonopolyWatch NZ.

The Commerce Amendment Bill, which aims to deter anti-competitive conduct, has passed its third and final reading in parliament.

20-year veteran Tim Donaldson is taking up an expanded GM role in the South Island, while up north it has gone internal to replace its long-standing legal chief.

Hundreds of people are required to plug gaps in Countdown’s supply chain because of Covid-19 absenteeism.

New World and the Wellington City Mission’s free Social Supermarket in Newtown has seen 3,268 shoppers access essential items in its first full year of operating.

Impossible Burger Patties go on sale at supermarkets across ANZ, while My Food Bag takes alt-protein offering Plan*t national.

IRI’s Grocery Market Overview attributes price rises as the major driver behind February’s 5.8% increase in sales value.

As ComCom has found, restructuring the country’s duopoly-dominated grocery market is much harder than it looks.

Dunedin residents can now recycle their soft plastic packaging at eight Countdown, New World and The Warehouse stores across Dunedin and Mosgiel.

There are hopes a new market watchdog could apply significant pressure on the country’s supermarket duopoly to act fairly.

Hospitality venues continue to feel the pressure of Omicron with a 10% drop in card spending last month.

The boutique dairy firm is balancing inflationary pressure with its strategy to drive the premiumisation of commodity dairy products.

Consumer New Zealand research has found 98% of people are worried about the rising price of groceries.

Despite the sound and fury, the commission’s final report arrives with a whimper when it comes to competition, writes the Ticker’s Bridget O’Connell.

The duopoly pledge to work with the government to implement the Commerce Commission’s final recommendations.

The Commerce Commission is labelled “out-of-touch” for releasing its report while supermarkets are struggling with Omicron impacts.

Foodstuffs South Island is distributing more than one million rapid antigen tests to its supermarkets, more than 250 businesses and donating a number to charity.

Chair Anna Rawlings defends the report as “robust” and says it is up to the government to decide what to implement.

NZFGC labels the grocery report a victory for suppliers, but says it is now up to the government to respond.

Code of conduct, collective bargaining and disputes resolution scheme all recommended by Commerce Commission.

The commission stepped back from measures like creating a new independent wholesaler.

New Zealanders will soon benefit from a much more competitive grocery sector as a result of market study findings unveiled by the Commerce Commission, says the government.

But its recommendations fall well short of the more radical options, such as asset divestment, explored in its draft report and inquiry hearing.

Countdown employees working alongside Australian colleagues shipped in to fill gaps in New Zealand stores and supply chains should immediately receive pay parity and be remunerated at the significantly higher rates of their colleagues from across the ditch, First Union says.

The entrepreneur is hoping for a “table-thumping” final report on Tuesday, paving the way for a third major player in NZ’s $22bn grocery sector.

Economist Cameron Bagrie rejects the argument that New Zealand’s credit rating could be hurt if the supermarket giants are forced to divest.

Foodstuffs has opened Te Kauwhata’s first new supermarket in 70 years.

The gloves are off ahead of the Commerce Commission’s final report into the $22bn grocery sector to be published on Tuesday.

The supply chain is being hammered with consumers warned to expect gaps.

Essential categories and lines will be prioritised as inbound product capacity at DCs is squeezed by Omicron absenteeism.

Omicron absenteeisms are piling pressure on supply chains, with manufacturers scrambling to retrain and redeploy staff.

TVNZ’s Sunday programme takes a look at the country’s supermarket duopoly and asks if Kiwis and suppliers should be getting a better deal.

Food and beverage sales volumes rose 12% in the December quarter as businesses came out of lockdown.

Lockdowns and higher food prices pushed Countdown’s first half food sales up 8.3% to more than NZ$4bn, according to Australian parent Woolworths.

The beverage business wins a major distribution deal for its immunity tonic with the Australian supermarket giant.

We’re doing the work, FSNI boss Chris Quin says, in the lead up to publication of the final ComCom report by 8 March.

Woolworths NZ’s Sally Copland heads across the ditch for a top e-commerce role.

Food sector stakeholders have labelled the government’s rapid antigen test distribution plan “unreliable” as concerns grow over access to RATs.

The grocery group is using its procurement heft to source more than 1 million rapid antigen tests on behalf of around 250 companies.

Supermarket chain Countdown has pledged $25,000 into helping the LGBTQI+ support organisation Rainbow Youth.

Scan in, wear a mask, shop normally, be kind – a message from Countdown.

Annual food prices rose in 5.9% with widespread increases seen in January.

But a new factory boosts production five-fold, supporting plans to expand into more supermarkets.

However, expansion beyond Auckland will depend on its NZ debut, says the global retailer.

Strong pandemic performances, e-commerce and sustainability initiatives have helped elevate the best brands.

The salad business plans to hike prices again to offset mounting cost pressures.

Entries have opened FoodStarter 2022.

Beverage makers report strong peak summer sales, although rising costs and event cancellations eat into performance.

Proposed Rolleston development could add a fifth DC to Countdown’s national network, with focus on fresh and perishable product lines.

Falling sales and rising operational expenses eat into pretax profit, even as it made saving on the products it sells.

“We expect businesses to run recalls smoothly in the interests of food safety, and that has clearly not happened here,” says NZ Food Safety.

The seafood company secures new opportunities for product formerly destined for Foodstuffs, but not at the same price.

FSNI’s CEO makes a last-ditch attempt to sway the outcome of the Commerce Commission’s market study into the retail grocery sector.

The multinational hikes prices on a range of food products, joining a number of peers moving to offset rising commodity and supply chain costs.

Australia’s Woolworths Group has named Sealord one of its top suppliers for the year.

Hospitality in Auckland finally re-opens but expect the environment to be fluid, says the coffee company.

Countdown owner Woolworths has made a last-minute takeover offer for pharmacy group Australian Pharmaceutical Industries for A$871m (NZ$907m).

Covid, ComCom plus business as usual made 2021 a testing year, but NZFGC boss Katherine Rich says prioritising the creation of a Grocery Code would be a strong start in 2022.

The supermarket chain targets last minute grocery needs and top-up shop missions with delivery service.

Grocery workers are suffering the mental health effects of customer hostility and lack of safety in their workplace.

Countdown distribution centre workers at two Auckland sites have signed a new agreement that includes a 5% wage rise for the next year and a 3.9% increase for a reduced 9-month term in the following year.

Woolworths New Zealand is recalling Chelsea and Countdown branded raw sugar and brown sugar products bought on either Thursday 25 November or Friday 26 November from any Countdown, SuperValue or FreshChoice store in the South Island.

F&B players are arming themselves with shoppable recipes, fast delivery, D2C, and new meal kit offers to win more of the digital dollar.

The salad supplier grapples with increasing costs and conducts a review of margins to ensure acceptable returns.

Foodstuffs and Countdown have picked up awards at the Property Council New Zealand’s 2021 Rider Levett Bucknall Property Industry Awards.

Supermarket chain Countdown has mandated the Covid-19 vaccine for staff, meaning its entire 21,000-strong workforce would need to be fully vaccinated by January 10.

CEO Kevin Bowler tells the Ticker what he’s looking for in any acquisition – and it may not have to be in food.

Countdown and New World have taken gold and silver respectively in the supermarket category in the latest Reader’s Digest Quality Service Awards.

Foodstuffs South Island is recalling raw sugar from its South Island stores due to possible contamination with low levels of lead.

The 12-month programme provides access to Countdown’s customer marketing and insights teams, as well as product development and manufacturing support.

The country’s largest independent cheese maker has been forced to end a retail product it has been making for 27 years.

The fermented foods firm is looking to strengthen its domestic position with a drive into a nascent plant-based healthy food chiller category.

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New Zealanders spent 9.5% more on their credit and debit card in October 2021 than in September as Covid-19 alert levels eased across large parts of the country, however the increase did not benefit the grocery sector, according to Stats NZ.

Foodstuffs supermarkets have teamed up with Canterbury District Health Board’s vaccination team to host community clinics.

Countdown says its supermarkets at Ferrymead, Ponsonby, Kilbirnie, Petone and Takapuna have started stocking cage-free eggs only.

The Mother Earth owner says its acquisition of Sunsol and Lucky is a “leap forward” in a key international market for the Hamilton-based business.

Foodstuffs-owned Pak’nSave is running its Pak’canSave initiative for two weeks from 1st until the 14th November.

The Commerce Commission consultation conference as part of its review of competition in the $22bn retail grocery sector has come to a close, providing participants one last chance to plead their cases.

Could an ‘iwi-mart’ challenge the Foodstuffs and Countdown duopoly?

The supermarket chain is consulting on a proposal that will see all of its 18,000 employees subject to a vaccine mandate.

Cookie Time will ramp up distribution of the boutique brand into mainstream grocery retail across the country.

The new online supermarket has hired NZ staff and is developing its first dark store in Auckland with a second on the way.

Food and grocery outlets from Northland to Christchurch are now locations of interest in relations to the current Delta outbreak, according to the Ministry of Health.

New entrants, existing players and would-be investors are all wary of the power wielded by the grocery duopoly, the Commerce Commission hears.

Ministry of Awesome, Foodstuffs South Island, Foodstuffs North Island, New Zealand Food Innovation Network and Strategy Creative.  

Lockdown helped drive growth in the supermarket group’s Q1 results with e-commerce surging.

Supermarket owners argue for a fresh calculation of profit refuting findings of excessive returns.

FGC says NZ’s highly concentrated market means conflicts of interests are amplified but supermarket groups argue private labels are critical for budget consumers.

Bloomsberry and Co founder Giles Barker says supermarkets use promotional pricing to control suppliers, rather than just to deliver value to consumers.

The latest locations of interest in connection with the Delta outbreak include a raft of food retailers including the first South Island locations in the current outbreak

Tex Edwards makes his case for a break-up of the duopoly, which he says controls all the vital infrastructure in the sector.

A new retail complex including a 1,900 square metre New World supermarket plus retail shops has been approved for Flaxmere, Hastings.

FSSI’s boss blames the grocery market review process for having “significantly damaged a large number” of supplier and retailer relationships.

FSNI claims it is becoming more customer driven but some suppliers will suffer significant shelf-space reductions.

In an open letter to Parliament, the unlikely allies call on MPs to support a “strong intervention” into NZ’s grocery market.

The Auckland food firm has clinched a deal to get its snack bars into Woolworths stores across Australia and has ambitions for its premium breakfast cereals to follow.

Online grocery startup Supie says it has seen demand for its services boom since Auckland moved to Covid-19 alert level 4 in mid-August.

More than four years after premium supermarket chain Nosh went under, the receivers have published their final report.

A new 3,860 square metre Countdown has opened in Hastings, developed on the same site as the original store built more than 30 years ago.

Countdown and Foodstuffs are supporting Super Saturday’s Vaxathon to help drive up the country’s vaccination rate.

Foodstuffs North Island has rejected claims that the impact of its frozen fish product review would result in more space in its freezers for overseas products at the expense of New Zealand ones.

More stores? Yes. Smashing NZ’s supermarket duopoly? Not us, says the new entrant’s co-founder, Chris Fisher.

Foodstuffs North Island, Countdown and Mainfreight are among more than 25 companies who have received the green light to introduce rapid antigen testing this month.

The Gisborne business is pumping millions into its pilot undercover growing project to test the environmental and productivity gains it can unlock.

The company behind Marcel’s Pancakes has doubled in size in four years, growing its retail presence across Asia Pacific – a strategy accelerated by the pandemic.

Four Candles Food Market opened its Auckland store at 10 Constellation Drive, North Shore, over the weekend.

The government is meeting business leaders today to discuss a rollout of rapid antigen tests to help keep workplaces safe.

Dozens of grocery and supermarket stores have been listed this week as locations of interest in connection with the Delta outbreak in Auckland and Waikato.

Pavé clinches the contract to manage New Zealand sales for the plant-milk giant in the fast-growing category.

Shrimps, eggs, and Cadbury Dairy Milk are the latest products to get a plant-based overhaul by the FMCG behemoths.

Foodstuffs North Island, Woolworths New Zealand, and Mainfreight are among a group of the country’s largest companies calling for emergency approval of rapid antigen tests.

The business founder on expanding into export, building a global brand, and whether she’d ever sell her non-alcoholic drinks firm to an alcohol company.

The cereals business is nearing $5m in total sales underpinning its Australian premiumisation strategy.

Lockdowns, lower demand for bulk products, and labour costs all eat into the supermarket salad supplier’s bottom line.

Consumer demand and the bedding down of new processes will dictate the next steps following the four-week trial.

New Zealand wines have taken 42 of the 50 placings in the New World Wine Awards Top 50.

The head of the US giant’s Kiwi business on its $45m investment in innovation, supply chain ‘whack-a-mole’, and is she applying for Kellogg’s top ANZ job?

Stores have reduced hours and shifted to level 3 protocols after parts of the region entered lockdown overnight.

Digital disruption is bringing massive change to retail, with the tracking of food an important driver, says a new report from the bank.

New Zealand’s 4,000-plus owner-operated dairies and service stations are a way for both cheaper groceries, says the Dairy and Business Owners Group.

An overwhelming majority of consumers believe they pay too much for goods at supermarkets and the current duopoly should be split up, according to a survey commissioned by lobby group Monopoly Watch NZ.

Four months on from its acquisition of 180 Degrees, Arnott’s is dodging Delta disruption and preparing to push the premium cracker brand.

Speciality grocery chain plans to introduce a vaccination clause in new employment frontline employment contracts in the wake of the Delta outbreak.

Countdown Botany Downs and Pak’nSave Sylvia Park are among the latest Auckland retailers added to the Ministry of Health’s locations of interest in connection with the city’s Covid outbreak.

Private labels do more harm than good for both suppliers and consumers in highly concentrated markets, according to research commissioned by the NZFGC.

Additional Auckland supermarkets, dairies and petrol stations have been added as locations of interest in connection with the Delta outbreak in Auckland.

Countdown is set to build a 3,490 square metre green star-rated supermarket in a 3.4-hectare residential development in Halswell, Christchurch – the supermarket chain’s largest development to date.

A co-ordinated review of events leading to the terrorist attack that saw seven people injured at Auckland’s LynnMall Countdown on 3 September is to take place.

The supermarket group also suggests changes to planning laws and the appointment of a grocery ombudsman with oversight of the $22bn sector.

Food firms want wide stakeholder buy-in to a code that provides a framework for behaviour and confidence for investment decisions.

CEO Chris Quin says the co-op will make changes but he disputes ComCom’s estimate of the supermarket group’s profitability.

NZFGC’s boss says FSNI has thrice refused to sign up to a code of conduct, but Rich welcomed a “first step” towards a more competitive market.

Foodstuffs North Island’s Auckland Airport distribution centre has won the New Zealand Sustainability Project of the Year at this week’s Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors Awards.

The latest update to Delta locations of interest in Auckland sees more supermarkets added to the Ministry of Health’s list.

The ingredient supplier will ramp up its retail range as well as push its B2B business from its expanded base.

The reformulation of Countdown’s own brand products sees 141 tonnes of sugar removed over three years.

A swathe of supermarkets including Farro Mt Eden have been added to the Ministry of Health’s locations of interest in Auckland.

Retail card spending in New Zealand fell 19.8% in August compared with July reflecting reduced spending as the country went into lockdown mid-month, according to Stats NZ.

The retail veteran and current Foodstuffs director will take over from Steve Anderson to be FSSI’s chief executive.

A three year project to rebuild FSNI’s supply chain was delivered just in time for Delta, and sets the co-op up for an increasingly digital future.

Fonterra, Zespri, and Foodstuffs are heavyweights in NZ’s top 30 co-operative rankings.

Supermarket chain Countdown hoped to re-open its LynnMall store today in Auckland today, but did not specify a time.

What Delta has meant for staffing and store challenges, vaccinations and “maskholes”, according to FSNI’s CEO.

The return to alert level two means all Countdown stores outside of Auckland will move back to their regular trading hours from today, 9 September.

All Foodstuffs stores outside of the Auckland boundary are operating under new Covid-19 alert level 2 conditions from midnight Tuesday 7 September.