Technology to highlight natural capital on farm
A new technology company has been formed which will help New Zealand’s farmers and primary sector better understand and capitalise on their natural vegetation and biodiversity.
Silver Fern Farms chief executive Simon Limmer has signed off after six years at the helm of the meat processor and exporter optimistic about the future of New Zealand red meat.
"Current conditions provide a clear reminder that we are still exposed to global cycles and other challenges," he told suppliers in his final newsletter. "However, I am optimistic that our strategy is the right one and we have the momentum and capability to ensure a prosperous future."
Limmer said he'd spent his final week at the company in Shanghai, alongside incoming chief executive Dan Boulton.
"This is a reminder of the opportunities and challenges that incredible markets such as China present to us," he told suppliers. "We will need to earn the rewards on offer by being better connected, agile and creative if we are to deliver to the expectations of a discerning customer who is spoiled for choice."
Limmer claims that the 'nature positive promise' has positioned the Silver Fern Farms brand as a global leader, catching the attention of consumers around the world. However, he concedes this also imposes an ongoing expectation of continuous improvement and integrity beyond reproach.
"We will always be confronted by an ever-changing set of uncontrollable," Limmer added. "Economics, market trends, trade access, logistics, or the weather, all continue to throw curve balls at us, without wanting to reference a regulatory environment which is uncertain and imposing at best."
Limmer says the NZ red meat has enjoyed some tailwinds over the past few years.
"But the volatility remains and challenges still lie ahead as current conditions remind us."
Limmer told suppliers that incoming chief executive Dan Boulton will keep SFF progressing.
"His knowledge of our industry and determination to drive the business forward is clear."
Limmer paid tribute to both the farmer suppliers and workers at SFF saying the greatest privilege in his job was to work alongside some incredibly passionate and progressive people.
"New Zealand farming systems are the best in the world and continue to respond to those ongoing challenges, setting the reference for others," he added. "Consumers will always place real value on the goodness we create from the farms the world needs."
Applications are open for Horticulture New Zealand’s (HortNZ) 2025 scholarship programme with18 funding opportunities for students with a special interest in the commercial fruit and vegetable industry.
A lot depends on what happens in the next few months. That's the view of Federated Farmers Otago president, Luke Kane.
A group of volunteers from Lincoln University known as the 'Handy Landies' is among those descending on Otago to help farmers get their properties back to normal.
In another sign of improving agribusiness sentiment, two listed companies have lifted their forecast earnings for the year.
Three nominations have been received for two vacant director positions on meat processor, Alliance Group's board.
Canterbury milk processor Synlait says some farmer suppliers have been inquiring about the process to remove their cessation notices, handed in earlier this year.
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