What Would Synlait Be Worth to Fonterra or a2 Milk?
Speculation of a possible joint move by Fonterra and a2 Milk to buy Synlait raises a much bigger strategic question, says agribusiness expert Dr Nic Lees.
Mark Leslie, Director New Zealand Manufacturing, says Fonterra will be discussing the proposal over the coming weeks with the employees, with a decision expected mid-March.
"This is a difficult process for our people and supporting them is our priority as we work through the details," says Leslie.
"We will be discussing all options and opportunities available to our staff around their future employment, as well as providing the support they need to make decisions should the closure go ahead."
Fonterra Kaikoura employs 22 full time staff and typically operates between three to five months a year producing a small volume of specialty cheese. Moving this production to other sites would bring significant cost savings for the business and its 10,500 farmer shareholders.
"The proposal to close the Kaikoura site has not been made lightly and is one intended to help generate cost savings for the benefit of all Fonterra farmer shareholders," says Leslie.
