T\u0101tau T\u0101tau Commercial chairman Shayne Walker says the acquisition is a deliberate step in E Tipu\u2019s apple strategy. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis acquisition activates the next stage of our apple strategy, moving our horticulture business into processing,\u201d he said in a media release.<\/p>\n
\u201cZeffer is also a proud Hawke\u2019s Bay brand with a well-earned reputation, a highly experienced team and a genuine longstanding connection to the region. <\/p>\n
From left, T\u0101tau T\u0101tau Commercial chairman Shayne Walker, T\u0101tau T\u0101tau o Te Wairoa chairman Pieri Munro and Zeffer chief executive Colin Barriff.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe grow premium apples in Wairoa, so there is a clear strategic alignment between our horticultural operations and the products Zeffer makes.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis acquisition allows us to strengthen that connection across the value chain, from orchard to bottle, and creates real opportunity to add further value to the fruit we grow.\u201d <\/p>\n
He said everything E Tipu did was for T\u0101tau T\u0101tau\u2019s 11,000 members, and \u201cadding value to the fruit we grow is how we build long-term returns for them\u201d. <\/p>\n
Zeffer chief executive Colin Barriff said the acquisition was a positive outcome for the brand. <\/p>\n
\u201cE Tipu\u2019s connection to the region and the apple industry makes it a natural fit for Zeffer, and we believe they are well placed to take the business forward.\u201d<\/p>\n
Zeffer was established in a small shed in the Matakana area in 2008-09.<\/p>\n