Foodstuffs South Island invests in supplier partnerships and helping customers shop with confidence as Annual Grocery Report released
Foodstuffs South Island (FSSI) - the co-op behind 185 locally owned New World, PAK’nSAVE, Four Square and On the Spot stores - says it is proud to support the communities it serves and is working hard to provide New Zealanders value and choice, following the release of the Commerce Commission’s Annual Grocery Report today.
The report, which covers the 2024 financial year, acknowledges geographical variances, the importance of suppliers and gains made across the industry, including steps to stabilise food price inflation, improve wholesale access for other retailers, and strengthen transparency.
FSSI CEO Mary Devine said the co-op’s focus has been and remains delivering for customers in all corners of the South Island and building enduring and trusted supplier relationships.
“The South Island presents unique logistical challenges due to its low population density - approximately 8 people per km² and Foodstuffs South Island plays a vital role in making sure communities – big and small – have access to quality grocery stores, competitive choice, and local jobs.
“Yes, we have supermarkets in cities and major towns, but we also have 37 stores that serve communities of less than 5,000 people, 56 that serve communities of under 10,000 people and that’s a responsibility we take seriously,” she said.
“For nearly 100 years, Foodstuffs South Island has been investing in a grocery network that reaches from Stewart Island to Collingwood. Together, our members operate stores in towns and cities of every size, sharing infrastructure, transport, and supply systems to make sure people across the South Island have access to choice and value on supermarket shelves.”
Devine said FSSI viewed the Grocery Supply Code as an important part of how it operates and crucial for a thriving, diverse supplier base.
The co-op was recently recognised in the Commerce Commission’s supplier survey for its strong relationships with medium and small and emerging suppliers, who make up approximately a quarter of the products sold in its stores.
“We take a lot of pride in the strength of our supplier relationships, many of which span decades,” said Devine. “We know that working in such a busy and complex industry means issues will arise from time to time, but we’re pleased that both the recent survey and today’s report recognise the emphasis we place on our supplier partners.
“Many of our supplier relationships go back decades. We partner with a wide range of South Island businesses, from household names to innovators bringing a single new product to market. Backing local is part of the South Island way.”
Devine said FSSI had a strong appreciation for increased regulatory scrutiny in the grocery sector and was working hard to ensure expectations are met for the benefit of customers.
“We are continuing to invest in the systems, technology and training that help customers all around the South Island shop with confidence, while making solid progress on new regulatory expectations, and we’re seeing the difference these measures are making.”
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