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.
He points to a recent advertisement where Fonterra was looking for a top new spin doctor to massage the dairy company's messages to farmers.
The advert calling for interested parties stated: "Whanaungatanga, our Co-operative spirit gives us all a common strength and purpose. Manaakitanga is how we care for all our people who are at the heart of what we do... Kaitiakitanga ensures we take care of the land. Whakaohoohoo constantly inspires ourselves... Come join our whānau. You, me, Us Together Tātou tātou.”
Stone the crows, a number of flummoxed suppliers asked yours truly, "Is Fonterra a farmer dairy co-op or another politically-correct government department?"
Good question.
