Anna Lambourne, NZAPI Member Engagement Manager
New CEO at the helm for NZAPI
This week NZAPI has welcomed Terry Meikle in the role of CEO. A great asset to the industry, Terry joins the team bringing a wealth of experience in strategic management and international trade relations, having led New Zealand agriculture and horticulture interests across the Americas. Terry will be out and about meeting people across the industry over the next few weeks.
Eye on the Market
Markets have all performed well this export season, they have been firm with good demand across the board, despite the challenges. We are expecting them to continue to be receptive this coming harvest, however, it is likely we will continue to face challenges around increased costs, and issues with container and shipping supply. COVID-19 could also impact on operational capacity in the supply chain.
Is important to take stock early, and work with your exporters to review your marketing plans, to understand where to prioritise your time and resources. Think about your target markets and what specific attributes (size, colour, variety etc) are important to supply fruit into those markets.
Remember the best time to influence the crop is early and work closely with your partners including packers, exporters, logistics agents, and labour supply.
Busy time for RSE arriving
New Zealand Apples and Pear’s – RSE and Seasonal Labour Manager, Emma Sherwood has been incredibly busy coordinating a whopping 1,729 RSE staff arriving in New Zealand this month, under the new Quarantine Free Travel system. Next year it looks just a busy with another 41 flights organized to bring a further 6,204 RSE workers from three countries before the end of March.
Covid-19 Industry Support
The next few months look set to challenge us with COVID likely to reach Hawke’s Bay impacting business continuity and market access. It is important that businesses and packhouses get ready now! Get prepared and ensure prevention protocols are in place to reduce the risk. Have a plan in place for what to do in the situation of a positive case happening in your business. NZAPI have put together some great advice and templates to help you get ready. Check them out here.
