Synlait CEO Resignation Highlights Deeper Challenges Facing Dairy Processor
A revolving door of chief executives at milk processor Synlait is a warning sign, says Lincon University senior lecturer in agribusiness Nic Lees.
Synlait has successfully completed its pro rata entitlement offer announced on September 19, raising $98 million of new equity.
The funds will be used for a mix of debt repayment and contributing to a three-year circa $300 million capital growth project program.
“We’re very happy with the support our shareholders have shown during this offer and I’m pleased we were able to welcome new shareholders to our company at the same time,” says Graeme Milne, chairman.
Synlait’s largest shareholder, Bright Dairy, has maintained its 39.12% shareholding.
“As a growth company, we will continue pursuing profitable opportunities to make more from milk. Our planned growth projects are expected to enable us to take advantage of these opportunities and to solidify our international position as a trusted and innovative dairy manufacturer,” says Milne.
The growth projects will provide additional capacity for infant formula manufacturing, consumer packaging, infrastructure requirements and value added cream manufacturing.
John Penno, managing director and chief executive, added the process to dual list on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) is well underway.
“We expect to be trading on the ASX by the end of 2016 and look forward to strengthening existing and building new relationships with Australian investors in the near future,” says Penno.
The Rural Support Trust is hosting a series of community wellbeing events featuring former NZSAS soldier and Victoria Cross recipient Willie Apiata.
Government plans to reduce the regulations relating to drones that farmers use on their own properties has drawn a mixed reaction from commercial drone operators.
Families farming the same land for generations, including one spanning 187 years, were recognised at the 2026 Century Farms and Station Awards held in Lawrence, Otago recently.
Cambridge and surrounding communities are benefiting from a new emergency ambulance, thanks to joint funding from longstanding supporters, Grassroots Trust Limited and Greenlea Foundation Trust.
Safer Farms ambassador Lindy Nelson's dedication to "rethinking how the primary sector works together to reduce harm on farm" has been recognised with a finalist place in the New Zealand Workplace Health and Safety Awards for 2026.
Applications for Silver Fern Farms Co-operative's next board-appointed farmer director are open.
OPINION: Reckless action by Greenpeace in 2024 forced Fonterra to shut down a drying plant for four hours, costing the co-op…
OPINION: The global crusade against fossil fuel is gaining momentum in some regions.