US remains important market - Fonterra
Fonterra says the US continues to be an important market for New Zealand dairy and the co-op.
Three agribusiness leaders, with over 70 years’ combined service to co-operatives, were recognised at last night’s Cooperative Business NZ awards.
Former Fonterra chairman John Monaghan, who stepped down from the co-op this month, academic Nicola Shadbolt, who served as a Fonterra director for nine years and Lachie Johnstone, who served as the inaugural chairman of Farmlands Co-operative, received awards.
Co-operative Business New Zealand chief executive Roz Henry says the Outstanding Co-operative Contribution Award recognises individuals who have contributed significantly to the success of the sector over the long-term.
Johnstone was chairman of the North Island-based Farmlands Trading Society when it merged with the South Island-based CRT Co-operative in 2013.
Henry says Johnstone has been a champion for the co-operative model.
“He is someone who has upheld the co-operative principles and this was particularly evident during the formation of Farmlands, when he was truly focused on ensuring the new co-operative was based on the core values of the model and that the structure would provide a livelihood for members. “He has also been a key advocator in ensuring the development of governance skills and capability across the sector.”
Shadbolt, a Massey University, is a staunch advocate for the co-operative model.
Henry says she is a trailblazer who has worked incredibly hard to achieve long-term, sustainable change.
“For Cooperative Business New Zealand, she played a key role in enabling the first piece of research to be undertaken by Massey University to gain clarity around the value of the Co-operative Economy to New Zealand.
“This work was incredibly important to the sector and has been a cornerstone in enabling discussions with the Government and regulators.”
Monaghan was nominated for the award by a group of Fonterra shareholders without his knowledge.
“John is to be admired for his determination and commitment to lead Fonterra through a significant period of transition,” says Henry.
“It was a hefty responsibility and seeing the co-operative return to a position of profitability is a fantastic way to complete his tenure.”
Federated Farmers supports a review of the current genetic technology legislation but insists that a farmer’s right to either choose or reject it must be protected.
New Zealand’s top business leaders are urging the US Administration to review “unjustified and discriminatory tariffs” imposed on Kiwi exporters.
New tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump signal an uncertain future, but New Zealand farmers know how to adapt to changing conditions, says Auriga Martin, chief executive of Farm Focus.
A global trade war beckons, which is bad news for a small open economy like New Zealand, warns Mark Smith ASB senior economist.
Carterton's Awakare Farm has long stood as a place where family, tradition and innovation intersect.
Fonterra says the US continues to be an important market for New Zealand dairy and the co-op.
OPINION: At last, a serious effort to better connect farmers and scientists.
OPINION: If you believe Maori Party president John Tamihere’s claim that “nothing dodgy” occurred at Manurewa Marae during the last…