Foodstuffs North Island has collaborated with The New Zealand Food Innovation Network to launch a nationwide series of forums aimed at assisting emerging grocery suppliers in achieving 'supermarket success.' These forums, spanning 14 events from March to September across New Zealand, aim to provide crucial support and guidance to small businesses venturing into the supermarket supply chain.
In partnership with regional business development agencies and industry experts, Foodstuffs and the NZ Food Innovation Network will offer assistance in product formulation, manufacturing, scaling, compliance, and overall business development. The forums will feature insights from Foodstuffs experts, who will share their experiences and knowledge on supplying products to over 300 Pak’nSave, New World, and Four Square stores across the North Island.
Rachel Prenty, the
emerging supplier manager at Foodstuffs North Island, emphasized the importance
of these forums in connecting with suppliers at the early stages of their
growth journey. The objective is to provide essential insights and guidance to
help emerging suppliers navigate the complexities of scaling up their
businesses for successful supermarket supply.
Prenty highlighted the significance of considerations such as establishing a robust supply chain, ensuring sustainable operations, understanding supermarket distribution processes, and meeting customer demands. Additionally, Foodstuffs North Island offers support to emerging suppliers through initiatives like Emerge, Foodstuffs' Emerging Supplier Competition, and resources such as their supplier handbook.
By providing guidance and support to small businesses in the early stages of establishment, these forums aim to set them up for success and inform their decision-making processes for the future. Prenty encouraged suppliers at all stages of their business to attend the local events, emphasizing the opportunity to build a network of support within their regions.
