One year into its partnership with the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN), Foodstuffs South Island, the 102-year-old co-op behind PAK’nSAVE, New World, and Four Square stores, has rescued over $1 million worth of food to support families and communities facing food insecurity across the South Island.
Through this collaboration, surplus food from Foodstuffs’ Christchurch distribution centre is redirected to food hubs that distribute essentials to those in need.
“Working with the New Zealand Food Network has let us reach more communities than ever before,” says Kyrin Gourley, Foodstuffs South Island’s Supply Chain Business Manager.
“Just because produce has a blemish or bruise doesn’t mean it should go to waste—it’s still perfectly good food, and there are many Kiwis who can use it. By teaming up with NZFN, we’re giving that food a new purpose.”
Since joining forces with the network, Foodstuffs South Island has increased its weekly food rescue volumes by more than 40%. “We’ve been able to send surplus food as far as the East Coast of the North Island,” Gourley says. “In communities affected by recent weather events, this food has been a lifeline.”
By the end of this year, Foodstuffs South Island will have donated over 100 tonnes of food – enough to make a real impact.
NZFN, which is Aotearoa’s national surplus food distributor and works with over 60 food support charities nationwide, plays a key role in managing the logistics.
“Having a reliable stream of quality surplus food from Foodstuffs has been transformative,” says Gavin Findlay, NZFN’s CEO. “It ensures that families across the South Island can access the nutritious food they need.”
The partnership has also seen Foodstuffs staff engage in training on food rescue practices.
“The NZFN team has shown our inventory staff how to assess and set aside food for redistribution. When our team members see Foodstuffs pallets loaded onto a truck destined for families in need, it brings them an enormous sense of pride,” Gourley says.
With plans to continue expanding this initiative, both Foodstuffs and the NZFN are committed to making rescued food a lasting resource for Kiwi communities.
“Every box, every pallet, means more food on the table for someone who needs it,” Gourley says. “That’s what keeps us going.”
