The interim results of the Kiwifruit Industry Strategy Project (KISP) referendum have been released today, with a record number of growers turning out to have their say in the future of the industry.
“Two-thirds of growers, representing 80 per cent of production, voted in the KISP referendum. This compares to an average voter turn-out in the industry of around 40 per cent,” said KISP independent chairman Neil Richardson, adding that the results show a united support for industry changes.
“Growers have turned out in record numbers to vote in this referendum, and the interim results show overwhelming support for all the KISP recommendations,” said Neil Trebilco, president of grower organisation New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI). “With grower support for all recommendations in excess of 90 per cent, kiwifruit growers are sending a very clear signal to NZKGI, Zespri and the government on how they want their industry structured.'
The results include an overwhelming majority of growers, or 98 per cent, voting in support of New Zealand’s Single Point of Entry (SPE) marketing structure, as well as more than 90 per cent of growers voting in favour of regulatory changes, and changes to the name, structure and role of NZKGI.
“New Zealand kiwifruit growers have given a clear message to Zespri, their grower representatives on NZKGI, post-harvest operators and the New Zealand Government as to how they want their industry structured and controlled,' said Richardson.
The referendum was based on recommendations put forward by KISP’s organising committee, following 18 months of grower and industry meetings as well as more than 650 grower submissions, and consultations.
Single-desk marketer Zespri has welcomed the high turnout of voters in the referendum, which chairman Peter McBride said demonstrated a clear mandate for change.
“Over 90 percent of growers have clearly stated their desire for change in three areas which affect Zespri – ownership of Zespri shares by growers who have left the industry, the mechanism by which the Zespri margin is calculated and changes to Zespri’s board to formalise the three independent members,” said Bride. “The change to share ownership in particular is a large piece of work and relies on government support to realise the industry’s desire for change. It is also heartening to see growers value their industry structure, with 98 per cent of respondents confirming their support for the SPE.”
Voting in the referendum closed on 20 March, with the final results expected to be completed by 30 March.
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