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.
In the large manufacturer category, this year's supreme award has gone to Tip Top's French vanilla ice cream.
This ice cream was best in category for standard vanilla ice cream and judges described it as true to type with good colour and matching flavour.
The Supreme Award for a boutique manufacturer this year was awarded to the Takapuna Beach Cafe and Store for an entry in the gelato category.
It's winning salted caramel gelato impressed judges. They said its ability to balance the sweet flavour of caramel with just enough sea salt to enhance the overall combination of flavours in this gelato. Takapuna Beach Cafe and Store also won the supreme award last year for their coconut & lime curd gelato.
The awards received a record 285 entries that kept the five judges engaged for a full two days judging. There was also a record number of 37 entrants compared to 31 last year.
The individual categories which attracted the largest number of entries were premium ice cream with 55 entries, gelato with 56 entries and sorbet with 50 entries.
The awards were announced at a gala dinner in Napier last night.
