New Zealand Grocery Wholesalers has built a distribution network across the country in just three years. The Woolworths New Zealand division now delivers to more than 100 retail locations and supports a growing base of over 60 independent retail customers.
Retail Demand Driving Volume Growth
Retailers including Circle K, Mad Butcher, and MetroMart are tapping into the wholesaler’s growing supply network. Over the past year, wholesale volumes have climbed 105%, with an additional 100,000 cartons moved nationwide.
Strong Emphasis on Direct Supplier Relationships
One of the defining aspects of New Zealand Grocery Wholesalers’ strategy is its focus on direct supplier relationships. The business has bypassed traditional market systems to negotiate directly with fruit and vegetable growers, as well as livestock farmers.
“If we don’t get it right with our suppliers, we can’t get it right for our customers either,” a spokesperson said. “There’s always room for improvement, and we’re talking to our suppliers all the time so we can keep doing better.”
The company works with more than 1,400 local and international suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of quality products at competitive prices. It also supports the Commerce Commission’s Grocery Supply Code, aimed at ensuring fair trading conditions across the retail industry.
“We supported the introduction of the grocery supply code to ensure all retailers are held to the same standard,” the company said.
Industry Recognition and Export Support for Kiwi Suppliers
The wholesaler’s commitment to supplier relationships is reflected in its industry ranking. “Suppliers have independently ranked us as the best grocery retailer to do business with for five running years,” the company stated.
This strong reputation is further strengthened by its efforts to support Kiwi suppliers internationally, using its connection with Woolworths Australia.
“We’re proud to support many Kiwi suppliers to succeed on the world stage, through our relationship with Woolworths in Australia,” it said.
Maintaining Affordability Amid Economic Challenges
The wholesaler has maintained a focus on affordability and quality amid rising living costs in New Zealand. We know New Zealanders are facing cost of living pressures and our absolute priority is delivering great products, great prices and a fantastic shopping experience for our customers as well as building a meaningful wholesale business,” the company explained.
The combination of supplier partnerships and direct sourcing enables the business to offer competitive pricing while maintaining high standards.
Commitment to Regulatory Engagement and Long-Term Growth
The wholesaler has also publicly committed to constructive engagement with regulatory processes.
“We support the Grocery Supply Code because we feel that consistent rules hold everyone to the same high standard and help businesses of all sizes to grow and succeed,” the company said.
“We’ll now take the time to read the draft documents issued by the Commerce Commission in detail and will work constructively with the Commission through the submission process.”
The company acknowledges it is still in the early stages but remains ambitious. “Wholesale is a new and fast-evolving area for us. We’re building the best offering possible for the wider grocery industry and Kiwi shoppers,” the business concluded.