Thursday, 13 September 2018 14:50

Farmers unhappy — Coull

Written by 
Duncan Coull. Duncan Coull.

Fonterra Shareholders Council chairman Duncan Coull says farmers are unhappy with the co-op’s current performance.

Commenting on Fonterra’s annual results, he says the underlying result and its impact on earnings, dividend and carrying value is totally unacceptable and one that our farming families will not want to see repeated.

“Moving forward, it is imperative that our business builds confidence through achievable targets and at levels that support a higher carrying value of our farmers’ investment. 

“We have been encouraged in the recent short term by the willingness of the board and management to take an honest look at our position and make the necessary changes. 

“We are looking forward to a continuation of more open and transparent discussions, and seeing those translate into long term results.”

Coull also noted the co-op’s $20 billion revenue resulting from the very strong milk price. 

“The New Zealand public needs to recognise that out of that $20 billion revenue, a good portion remains in the New Zealand economy. That’s a real positive - no other New Zealand business delivers that,” he says. 

Despite today’s results announcement, Coull says the council remains firmly resolved that Fonterra as a strong co-op “is the only model that serves to deliver a strong future for our farming families in New Zealand”.

More like this

Ah Tatua, You've Done It Again!

Waikato milk processor Tatua has again declared a record milk payout to farmer shareholders, leaving other processors in the dust.

Featured

Ah Tatua, You've Done It Again!

Waikato milk processor Tatua has again declared a record milk payout to farmer shareholders, leaving other processors in the dust.

India FTA Unites NZ First, Greens

National’s much-touted free trade deal with India featured in the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek, Hamilton on Wednesday night.

2026-27 Fishing Season Opens Across New Zealand

New Zealand's 2026-27 freshwater fishing season has opened, with anglers encouraged to head to rivers and lakes over the coming days as conditions look favourable across much of the country.

CODC Rejects Plan to Spread Sludge on Lauder Farmland

Central Otago District Council (CODC) has voted against a plan to spread treated sewage sludge from Cromwell and Alexandra on farmland near Lauder, a decision Federated Farmers says reflects strong opposition from rural residents.

National

Machinery & Products

» Latest Print Issues Online

Milking It

» Connect with Dairy News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter