Meat co-op dilemma
Meat processor Alliance Group's cash-strapped farmer shareholders face a dilemma - either pour more money into the co-operative or risk losing 100% ownership and control.
The inaugural Alliance Pure South Conference on 27-29 May will see speakers from across the supply chain provide key insights in a range of areas including research and development, farm management, global economic trends and the international trading environment.
Delegates will learn more about innovation in getting products to market, the cooperative's innovative hoofprint programme and understanding pasture for lamb finishing.
Dr Scott Champion, chief executive of Beef + Lamb New Zealand, adventurer Mark Inglis, Minaret Station owner Jonathan Wallis are among a host of speakers attending the event.
The three day conference at the Rydges Hotel will also provide a chance for suppliers to meet and share their knowledge, participate in practical workshops and take part in interactive question and answer sessions.
One of the star attractions will be the NZ Pure South Sharp Blacks Butchery Team, which will showcase its skills alongside Pure South chef Graham Hawkes.
Alliance Group's general manager livestock, Murray Behrent, says: "This is a unique opportunity for our suppliers to benefit from practical advice about running a successful farm in today's conditions and hear from the next generation of farmers.
"The event is also an example of Alliance Group supporting our supplier shareholders with the latest research and insights in the sector so we can help them make informed decisions to benefit their farms.
"I would encourage any suppliers who haven't yet registered to do so as soon as possible with registrations closing 12 May 2014."
For more information, visit www.alliance.co.nz
