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Fonterra chairman Peter McBride
Fonterra chairman Peter McBride says the co-operative ended the 2021 financial year in a strong position on several fronts – financial results, strategy implementation and relationship with farmer owners.
Speaking at the co-op’s annual general meeting in Invercargill today, McBride noted that despite all of the disruption at home and in global markets, Fonterra performed well.
“This demonstrates the value of a New Zealand owned co-operative of scale,” he says.
“Fonterra’s scale gives us a level of optionality that is unique in New Zealand dairy.
“It enables us to manage risk and uncertainty on behalf of our kiwi farming families.
“We have benefited greatly from our ability to move your milk between the markets, categories and products that deliver the most value.”
The AGM is being held in-person and online because of Covid travel restrictions in Auckland.
Fonterra’s management team, including chief executive Miles Hurrell, are taking part virtually. Fonterra’s Auckland and Australia based directors are also attending virtually.
McBride noted that for many Fonterra team members, 2021 has been incredibly tough.
“Many of our international team are working away from home, or in densely populated cities where COVID is rife.
“I’d like to use this opportunity to say a thank you to all of our international team on behalf of us farmers.”
He says the hard work and commitment of Fonterra people was reflected in its key 2021 financial results:
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