Growers need to be considered in proposed supermarket ‘shake ups’

Growers need to be factored into any move to change the supermarket landscape in New Zealand.

'The margins on vegetables are low. If growers cannot make a responsible profit, they will go out of business, which will reduce supply and increase the price to the consumer,' says the New Zealand Vegetable Council (NZVeg) Chief Executive, Mike Brown.

'Growing vegetables is a risky business, particularly given the increase in bad weather in New Zealand. As we saw with Cyclone Gabrielle, shortages and price rises result when a vegetable growing region is affected by an adverse weather event.' 

NZVeg’s position is that there needs to be more transparency across the supply chain, so consumers know what they are paying for. 

'NZVeg would also like to see New Zealand take food security seriously. Part of this is ensuring a bi-partisan, national approach to vegetable production in resource management reform, so growers have the confidence to invest and continue to grow fresh, healthy vegetables for New Zealanders,' says Mike.