Investment

The Australian hotels, pubs and liquor group is adding another asset to its growing New Zealand portfolio.

Loss-making Alliance Group is undertaking a capital raise from its farmer shareholders in order to remain a 100% farmer-owned meat processing co-operative.

Technology company Mindhive is counting down to the closing of its capital raise, which has blasted through its minimum target.

New Zealand is playing its part in helping protect tuna fisheries in the Pacific with a $28m investment in a new science facility in Nouméa.

The biotech startup secures funding from the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures in a vote of confidence in the cultivated meat sector player.

Major food system stakeholders like Fonterra are shoulder-tapped by the government for interest in its new fast-track consent process.

A $1.04m mussel spat project involving Aquaculture New Zealand, Greenshell Spat Co and Sanford has been backed by the coalition government.

LeaderBrand has officially opened its 11-hectare mega greenhouse project in Tairāwhiti, with Regional Development Minister Shane Jones doing the honours.

US fried chicken chain Popeyes has circled Monday 29 April for the opening of its first New Zealand store in Takanini, Auckland.

TradeWindow has closed what it said was an oversubscribed $2.2m capital raise.

Agritech startup BioLumic is the latest firm to get finding from the AgriZeroNZ, the public-private joint venture investment vehicle aiming to reduce farm emissions.

The Australia-based crowdfunding platform, used by Kiwi F&B manufacturers, was founded by Jonny Wilkinson and Chris Gilbert and launched in NZ in 2014.

NZ should become a nation of ‘mini-multinationals’ to help drive exports, according to a new report.

TradeWindow’s $2.2m capital raising programme has gone unconditional, after reaching the $1m threshold following commitments from chief executive and founder AJ Smith, together with another cornerstone shareholder.

Hospitality Training Trust financial grant applications close on 28 April.

Westland Dairy Company is not expecting to have to top-up the $25.9m upfront payment it made as part of a deal to take full control of a loss-making infant-formula joint venture it formed in 2016.

A2 Milk is one of three new partners throwing their weight – and dollars – behind AgriZeroNZ, the public-private joint venture investment vehicle aiming to reduce farm emissions.

The Australasian supermarket major enlists four heavyweight peers to launch the new global fund.

The New Zealand alt-protein pioneer is closing, with its founder sharing some home truths about the realities of scaling FMCG manufacturing.

TradeWindow has opened its share purchase plan from which is is looking to raise up to $200,000.

The Christchurch snack company adds Auckland’s Bootleg to its portfolio, deepening its reach into the domestic category as well as adding new export potential.

The milk processor was close to clinching a deal for its consumer cheese division Dairyworks last week before the buyer walked away.

Technology company Mindhive has gone live for a capital raise as it looks to grow the application of its machine-vision-enabled AI into the meat industry.

Me Today has raised $3.1m from a rights issue, which closed last Friday 22 March.

Last year was a low point for merger and acquisition activity, but receding recession fears mean the pace is likely to pick up in 2024.

NewFish claims an ANZ first with its selection in deep tech startup programme IndieBio, while Future Food Aotearoa is taking the stage at a global summit.

Cooks Coffee is undertaking a placement to selected investors to raise up to $1.7m, and a share purchase plan for its existing New Zealand-based shareholders.

The new venture has industry and investment heavyweights behind it as it prepares to enter the B2B market with its first product: whipping cream.

Chinese premium pet food company Peidi has opened its $60m New Zealand factory, King Country Pet Food.

The drinks business allocates 100 barrels of single farm, single malt New Zealand whisky for the first year of its People’s Cut programme.

A five-year New Zealand government-funded project to help Viet Nam build a more lucrative passionfruit export industry has been launched.

A strong recovery in the operational and financial performance of Inghams’ NZ business set it up for expansion, according to CEO Andrew Reeves.

Nelson growing operation JS Ewers has officially opened a new state-of-the-art biomass plant, completing a five-year project.

Me Today shareholders are meeting in Auckland today to vote on resolutions related to restructuring the company’s funding facilities and a capital raise plan.

The company behind the drinks brand revives plans for a capital raise to help drive expansion in NZ and Australia.

Alternative protein investment firm Better Bite Ventures is looking for new founders to back via its First Bite initiative designed to support idea-stage and just-launched startups in APAC.

Technology company Mindhive is preparing for a capital raise as it looks to grow the application of its machine-vision-enabled AI into the meat industry.

Tahua Partners is expanding its brands on the high street with plans to invest around $25m to establish US fried chicken chain Popeyes in New Zealand.

Comvita calls in a team of advisers after an unnamed overseas party made a non-binding takeover offer at a “significant premium” to the firm’s current share price.

Endebted honey and VMS specialist Me Today is seeking shareholder support for a company recapitalisation that will unlock a debt restructuring with its lenders.

Key to the strategy are a new export levy, industry body and export standards, as well as the protection of bee health and support for beekeepers.

Listed food industry supplier MHM Automation intends to delist from the NZX following its proposed $151.4m sale to US-based Bettcher Industries.

The molecular farming startup will use the cash to help develop its innovative plant-based protein technology.

LeaderBrand has invested in an electric harvester and two self-propelled cargo platforms to operate in its new 11-hectare greenhouse.

The Wellington startup adds subscribers and new staff with its expansion south, and launches a national campaign to drive growth.

The chair of Ngāi Tahu Holdings steps down saying he is positive about the iwi’s interests in food, even its recently rejected aquaculture proposal.

Upstock is adding another $3.4m of seed funding to its coffers, which is earmarked to support the Wellington-based startup’s growth in Australia.

JJY and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Weihai, have a total holding of 18.61% in Cooks Coffee.

The Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund is backing Māori Kiwifruit Growers’ export potential.

Food and beverage acquisitions with pricetags potentially totalling around $500m have been signed off by the Overseas Investment Office.

A private Australian company co-owned by a former race car driver with FMCG turnaround experience is taking over the frozen dessert manufacturer.

Shareholders of listed food industry supplier MHM Automation have backed its proposed $151.4m sale to US-based Bettcher Industries.

Central Otago a cherry juice producer Eden Orchards is trialing a novel freezing method on its cherry crop.

The venture will use the funds to grow its global footprint in the wine industry, where its technology is already used by iconic brands Giesen and Cloudy Bay.

The startup behind plant-based product Vince raised $10,000 in a crowdfunding campaign run at the end of last year.

The precision fermentation firm is gearing up to launch a $10m – $20m fundraising round, evolving its strategy as a New Zealand-based start-up in the changing global dairy ingredients sector.

After a challenging 2023, will the next 12 months bring any relief to the under-pressure food industry?

Acquisition activity is set to end the year with a whimper in terms of deal volume, with some high-profile deals likely to slip into 2024 as investors bide their time.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has confirmed it will not oppose Woolworths Group’s acquisition of a 55% stake in Petstock Group.

Woolworths New Zealand has opened what it says is New Zealand’s first newly built Woolworths – a $20m supermarket located at Canterbury’s Waimakariri Junction.

It is hoped that combining the companies will enable scale and help exploit export opportunities.

Leaft Foods has been selected as a recipient of the Ārohia Innovation Trailblazer grant.

Oat milk and banana company All Good has hit its minimum fundraise target with 12 days to go.

Freeze-dried baby food company Norish has successfully crowdfunded $549,650 to support the growth of its product portfolio.

Woolworths New Zealand has completed a $4.6m overhaul of its supermarket in Palmerston North’s Kelvin Grove, including relaunched the former Countdown as a Woolworths.

Foodstuffs continues to grow the footprint of its Four Square banner, opening a new 250 square metre store in Taranaki’s Fitzroy.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened a new $21m cross dock and depot facility in Grenada, Wellington.

Westpac New Zealand has announced new emissions intensity targets for some agri-customers.

The new annual fund aims to drive innovation fostering sustainable growth in the multi-billion dollar kiwifruit sector.

Ebos Group is no longer in talks over a potential purchase of Australian vet and pet group Greencross.

Olam Food Ingredients has opened its new dairy-processing facility in Waikato.

Dual-listed Ebos Group is in NZX and ASX trading halts following it being linked to the purchase of TPG Capital-backed pet and vet group Greencross.

Food and beverage deals help lift overall activity to be “better than expected” for the period.

Freeze-dried baby food company Norish has successfully crowdfunded more than $400,000 to support the growth of its product portfolio.

Yeast supplier Froth Technologies has successfully raised its target of $10,000 to support the development of a range of home brew yeast pouches.

From developing cutting-edge tech to transform agri, private players are working with industry to disseminate innovation.

Listed food industry supplier MHM Automation has received a $151.4m takeover offer from US-based Bettcher Industries priced at a more than 80% premium to its shareprice.

TradeWindow says it is restructuring following the delay of its $11.1m deal with nChain to settle.

The development of a new $26.5m automated warehouse in Wiri for PepsiCo’s Bluebird Foods has entered the commissioning stage.

Wine company Cloudy Bay is adding to its Marlborough landholdings, with the proposed purchase of a vineyard and land in the region.

Almighty has crossed the $600k minimum raise target set for its current capital raise.

One of the early backers of the collapsed online supermarket says there were “several factors” that scuppered the startup, but it wasn’t a lack of effort by founder Sarah Balle.

Sarah Balle’s grocery challenger runs short of cash after a key investor pulls support, leaving the company facing a creditors’ bill of around $3m.

The Regional Strategic Partnership Fund has backed dozens of projects since it was launched – how has the food system fared?

The startup behind plant-based product Vince is raising funds so it can add to its manufacturing capacity ahead of a planned supermarket launch.

Kāpiti Coast District Council has injected $50,000 towards progressing local food and beverage economic opportunities via a grant to The Bond Store.

TradeWindow is still looking for a payment from British technology company nChain after it unexpectedly failed to materialise earlier this month.

AgriZeroNZ, the public-private joint venture investment vehicle aiming to reduce farm emissions, has appointed Wayne McNee as its chief executive.

The dairy giant’s nutrition science solutions ventures arm has been given a new name and added three investments to its portfolio.

Ebos is bedding in Superior Pet Food Company to its animal care portfolio after buying the Wairarapa business for $83.8m.

Two food system-related capital raises are entering their final days this week.

Seeka says it has invested $19m in developing orchards in New Zealand during H1 2023.

The agritech startup’s latest investment round is also supported by an Auckland-based deep tech investor.

Two innovative New Zealand food system startups have attracted international backing as they continue on their respective commercialisation journeys – and zone in on the US.

The Tasman brewer is the latest food and beverage firm to look for external capital as it looks to accelerate its growth.

Fonterra is stepping up its commercial probiotics game by forming a partnership with what it describes as a world-leading Irish research centre specialising in human microbiome.

The startup co-owned by Australia’s largest dairy co-op revealed the investment as stakeholders such as NZ’s FoodHQ and Miruku presented at AltProtein23 in Melbourne.

The oat milk and banana business hits the fundraising trail for a one-off capital injection to support an export drive.

ASB has launched a new programme to accelerate the export growth of established high-potential food and fibre businesses, through access to debt capital alongside advice, connections and expertise.

The Overseas Investment Office has signed off Australasian poultry group Inghams’ purchase of New Zealand’s Bromley Park Hatcheries.

Investors who focus on the capital-intensive side of food investment can have a big impact on global food security and affordability, writes UBS’ Darren Rabenou.

How much did Intersnack pay to take full control of the Nelson-based snack company?

Sole owner John Bostock has appointed Craigs to run a sales process for a minority stake in the Hawke’s Bay horticulture business.

Global drinks company Pernod Ricard is revisiting a potential sale of its Australian and New Zealand wine brands – a divestment it explored in 2019.

The company says the numbers do not stack up to continue investment in the current environment.

Almighty has extended the time span of its capital raise being undertaken via Snowball Effect.

Eighteen roading projects across the West Coast will receive more than $22m in government investment from the $419m Transport Resilience Fund.

The Thai-owned global drinks business snaps up NZ premium spirits producer Cardrona Distillery for an undisclosed sum.

Pāmu is launching a seven-year $10.5m genetics programme, which aims to produce sheep with top meat quality traits, lower methane emissions, finer wool and a greater tolerance for hot weather.

Majority owners Navis Capital is reviewing its ownership of the egg producer, which could result in a $400m-plus sale.

A joint venture of major New Zealand agribusiness companies and the government, is the lead investor in a US start-up developing probiotics and natural enzymes that reduces methane from cows.

If re-elected, the party says it will use the money to help transform NZ into a global leader in sustainable agri.

Farm reporting and insights platform, Trev, is chasing a $2.23m capital raise to accelerate its growth strategy.

Cloudy Bay Vineyards is extending one of its Malborough vineyards with the purchase of a leasehold interest in 12.9 ha of land located at 440 Old Renwick Road, Rapaura.

The Chinese food and beverage company is buying the shuttered Waikato dairy factory with plans to revive the cheese and UHT milk processing plant.

New Zealand Coastal Seafoods’s 100%-owned subsidiary Nine Ocean Fisheries has secured a debt facility with the National Australia Bank for the aggregate sum of A$1.9m.

CEO Andrew Low on the coffee company’s ambitions and the opportunities to expand overseas.

The juice company’s CEO on its $30m bet and the opportunities being explored for its two major brands, The Apple Press and Boring Oat Milk.

Milford Asset Management has sold down its ‘substantial holding’ in meal kit company My Food Bag.

The founder of the Allpress espresso empire is turning his attention to building up an olive and tourism operation on Waiheke Island.

Kiwisaver’s socially responsible investment fund, Booster Innovation Fund, has completed a $200,000 cash investment in Scentian Bio.

Beverage brand Almighty has opened what is its first public capital raise.

Wellington-headquartered infrastructure investor Morrison & Co has taken a 50% stake in Australian-listed packaging firm Pact Group’s crate pooling business.

Countdown Bethlehem is the first supermarket to rebrand as Woolworths New Zealand, following the announcement by the ASX-listed group in July.

Beverage brand banks $400k, while the vertical farming venture has five more days to reach its $1.5m target, and potentially another $3m in oversubscriptions.

Deal activity remained on an even keel in Q2 but headwinds could see more consolidation in sectors such as food manufacturing and hospitality.

The agribusiness builds up its global proteins division by planting a flag in Europe with partner Esro.

Agritech innovator Hot Lime Labs has closed an oversubscribed funding round, banking $4m.

Scott Technology has signed a contract with McCain Foods to deliver a $12m project at the manufacturer’s Alberta, Canada, processing facility.

Good Spirits Hospitality is asking its lender to permit a payout to shareholders from the proceeds of its sale, even though its disposal price is less than its debt pile.

The iconic Canterbury cookie company snaps up Rangatira’s Auckland-based bakery business.

Good Spirits Hospitality’s Geoff Tuttle and Nourish Group founder Richard Sigley are part of the group buying the nine-strong portfolio.

Private equity-controlled Mainland Poultry is undertaking a $78.9m sale and leaseback of its New Zealand land holdings freeing up capital for investment.

The government has welcomed a report from the Startup Advisors Council on steps to support a thriving startup sector in New Zealand.

The Wellington investor has been considering its options for the business since taking full control of it last year.

The specialist manufacturer that has helped leading coffee brands including Supreme and Havana develop their coffee-in-a-can concepts is brewing up a fundraise.

After taking control of Hansells from Walter & Wild, Alan Stewart tells the Ticker what he has planned for the iconic Kiwi brand.

The Commerce Commission has granted clearance for Reward Supply Co to acquire 100% of the shares of Southern Hospitality.

The proposed sale by Fonterra and Nestlé of their Dairy Partners Americas (DPA) Brazil joint venture to French dairy company Lactalis has caught the eye of staff at Brazil’s antitrust watchdog CADE.

Walter & Wild is offloading the rump of the Hansells business it bought in 2018 in a deal that sees the brand being taken in-house by its contract manufacturer.

Vertical strawberry farming venture 26 Seasons has pushed go on its capital raise.

Supply chain technology company TradeWindow says it has concluded a strategic agreement that will see UK-headquartered technology company nChain take a 19.99% stake for $11.1m.

The NZ-founded drinks brand is raising funds for a drive into the US and Asia.

New backers join the NoLo beverage business ahead of a capital raise to support Australasian expansion.

The proposed $50m oat milk factory slated for Southland now looks likely to be built in Canterbury with broader plant-milk ambitions.

New Zealand’s plant-based cheese manufacturer Angel Foods has completed its latest fundraise.

Kiwisaver’s socially responsible investment fund, Booster, has added a stake in Calocurb to its portfolio.

A food & beverage supply chain initiative has been confirmed as among 19 transport projects to share in $6.4m of funding from the government’s Low Emission Transport Fund.

New Zealand product traceability company is adding $91m to its balance sheet as it expands to meet growing demand in Europe and the US.

Australian non-alcoholic spirits maker Lyre’s has announced the closure of its latest strategic funding round, raising A$34.5m.

Dairy farm reporting software company Trev has acquired red meat specialist Cloud Farmer, a pioneer of farm recording in New Zealand.

The beverage brand is looking for up to $1m capital, which it says will be used to accelerate growth and capitalise on current market momentum. 

Australasian poultry group Inghams has been given the green-light by the Commerce Commission for the upstream acquisition.

The government is investing $4.6m from the Climate Emergency Response Fund into four projects tackling food waste.

Whether it’s cherries or hops or mussels, the country needs to move up the value chain, says NZTE.

The Better Packaging Co has raised $5m in a Series A investment round to support expansion, particularly in the United States.

Good Spirits Hospitality has received final bids as part of the sales process for its nine-strong portfolio of venues.

The former Zespri boss says NZ needs new, innovative large businesses to help grow the country’s food and fibre sector.

Comvita makes good on its pledge to consolidate ownership of the mānuka honey sector, buying Singapore’s HoneyWorld.

Mrs Higgins produces a range of premium oven-fresh bakery products from its retail outlets as well as packaged cookies for the grocery channel.

The SFFF fund backs microalgae exploration led by NewFish and the Cawthron Institute, while a whānua-initiated kānuka smoke project also gets cash.

The NZ Food Safety Science & Research Centre delivers value of $164m to New Zealand annually, according to the findings of a new study it commissioned.

It joins a number of other food stakeholders opting for green finance, including Yealands, Pāmu, and T&G Global.

The drinks business tells the Ticker it has ambitious growth plans for its health and functional beverage products.

The acquisitive foodservice company continues to expand, this time picking up a Tegel subsidiary in Wellington.

Cawthron Institute’s CEO says refocusing investment in the ocean’s potential could result in NZ becoming climate positive in just one generation.

Good Spirits Hospitality is expecting final bids shortly as part of the sales process for its nine-strong portfolio.

A culture of harmonious partnerships beats disruption when it comes to agrifoodtech, according to the co-founder of a plant trait technologies company that has transplanted from Palmerston North to California, collecting US$24m of backing along the way.

The government must step up efforts to support the rural sector so that all Kiwis can access safe, healthy and affordable food, says Animal & Plant Health New Zealand.

Delegates from far and wide have descended on Ōtautahi Christchurch for this year’s E Tipu IFAMA 2023 World Conference Global Forum.

Invest South and Mainland Angel Investors have invested in Frist Table, bringing the Queenstown-based venture’s capital raise to $3.5m.

The Centre for Climate Action Joint Venture has rebranded as AgriZeroNZ and announced an investment in a methane measurement facility, taking its confirmed deployments to over $8m since launching in February this year.

One of the original players in New Zealand’s plant-based food scene is undertaking its third crowdfunding raise to support its expansion into export markets.

The government is co-investing $17.7m into the construction of a new greenhouse gas testing facility at Massey University.

Lisa King’s AF Drinks is starting an “exciting new chapter” after attracting the attention of global drinks giant Pernod Ricard.

Meal kit company My Food Bag says it has successfully installed automated pick technology in its distribution centres in Christchurch and Auckland.

The strawberry grower is looking to build on current investment to raise millions more in funding.

The watchdog will be running a fine-tooth comb over all parts of the domestic supply chain for fresh fish as part of Moana New Zealand’s proposed $125m-plus Sanford deal.

Following the release of AgFunder’s 2023 global AgriFoodTech Investment Report, Sprout gives its take on the key findings, along with how they fit in with what it is seeing in the market. 

New Zealand needs substantial investment in organic, regenerative agriculture to combat climate change, rather than loosening regulations on genetically engineered products, according to the Soil & Health Association..

The West Coast dairy company buys out its partner’s 60% stake in the loss-making infant formula joint venture.

Standalone business will incubate, scale and invest in nutrition science ventures via partnerships and M&A, with its first investment already inked.

Australia’s Joval Wine Group is set to expand its Central Otago operations after being cleared to buy 19.0515 hectares of land on the Bendigo Loop near Cromwell by the Overseas Investment Office.

The biotech nutrition company rallies a number of heavy hitters with global experience to assemble a governance board and team of advisors ahead of a growth capital round.

The decision to divest the consumer cheese businesses comes four years after investing around $150m to acquire them.

The government’s Research and Development Tax Incentive has supported more than $2bn of New Zealand business innovation – an increase of around $1bn in less than nine months.

The company commissions phase one of its $100m Hawke’s Bay packhouse – one of the largest apple packhouses in the Southern Hemisphere.

A proliferation of competitors, the fragmented nature of the market, and the power of supermarket buyers would constrain Moana’s behaviour and preserve competition should the deal go through, states a report.

Foxton vertical farming venture 26 Seasons and Nelson’s Snap Information Technologies are both in line for RSPF loans.

The CEO tells the Ticker that the scale-up will enable the iwi-owned business to unlock investment in innovation across its whole supply chain.

The proposed long-term arrangement turns the profit-dragging operations into a lower-risk revenue stream, says Sanford CEO Peter Reidie.

The Auckland startup closes a successful fundraise after seeking a minimum of $30k.

Christchurch plant-based manufacturer Grater Goods has raised $399,300 in a fundraising round that had a maximum target of $1.5m.

The under pressure Auckland hospitality group reports “good interest” from potential buyers as the sales process for its nine-strong portfolio grinds on.

The Australia-based poultry group says the deal would help avoid potential disruption of chicken meat in NZ, where it is the most popular animal protein available to consumers.

The West Coast spirits powerhouse is opening up to new investors as it looks to add to its gin-centric premium spirits range by building out its whisky business.

Food system stakeholders have been linked to the sales process surrounding Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which ran the Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields, and went into voluntary administration in October.

Auckland’s first ghost kitchen operates at the front line of fledgling hospitality and food firms, where current challenges are impacting both tenants and the company’s own growth.

A vegan meal topper and sauce company has its sights set on an expansion to NZ, and is gearing up to raise investment to support its growth plan.

M&A activity in NZ remained steady in the first quarter despite economic headwinds, according to PwC, with some high-profile food players spicing up activity.

Christchurch plant-based manufacturer Grater Goods has opened its $1.5m capital raise.

The hospitality technology platform First Table blows through its minimum target to take in $2.79m from investors but falls short of its $4m maximum.

New Zealand-founded agritech company CropX has raised $50m (US30m) in Series C round.

The alternative protein investment firm takes a stake in the Kiwi cauliflower ice-cream startup, as well as other food ventures overseas.

The sale of Kono Seafood follows that of snacking business Annies as part of a strategic reset of what is now largely a beverage and hort group.

The investment will treble production of the high-value bioactive dairy ingredient at the company’s Hokitika site.

Hospitality technology platform First Table has passed the $1m in its capital raise after extending the length of time of the offer.

It included $5.6m in goodwill for the premium cracker brand, with a significant revenue and profit bump following.

Alt-meat sales were flat but plant-based milk continued to grow and new categories like salmon and schnitzel emerged.

Sarah Balle, the owner of online supermarket startup Supie said the company will be looking to undertake a “small capital raise” to fund the Auckland-centric firm’s expansion across the country.

The Wellington brewer closed the offer on Sunday after extending its duration, with a target of between $2m and $4m.

Silver Fern Farms grew its annual profit 82% last year, triggering a $250m investment programme which will likely see an expansion of its carbon-zero products.

Co-owner Darren Guo has overhauled the Auckland organics retailer and is now looking for external capital to fund an ambitious five-year growth plan.

Fonterra has completed the sale of its Chilean Soprole business to Gloria Foods – JORB S.A.

Fonterra’s flexible shareholding capital structure comes into effect today, after two years of development.

New Zealand spirits producer Scapegrace has received government support for its $25m Central Otago distillery expansion.

Market Gardeners has bought Warkworth-based capsicum hothouse operation, Southern Paprika Limited.

Early-stage raw dog food company Huntaway is planning to hub its wild venison product in the centre of the US and use four regional distribution centres.

Vertical farming venture Greengrower is producing and supplying leafy greens to the grocery and foodservice channels.

Wellington brewer Parrotdog has raised its $2m minimum target after extending the time line for its capital raise via Snowball Effect.

Hospitality technology platform First Table is live with its $1.5m capital raise.

The Heineken-owned brewer is increasing its interests in the hospitality sector in a deal that will create a new 55-venue hospitality group.

Kiwi-founded agtech company WayBeyond has secured an undisclosed investment amount from BASF Venture Capital.

Wellington brewer Parrotdog has raised nearly $1.5m with six days left to reach it’s $2m minimum target for its capital raise via Snowball Effect.

Recent weather events have raised food security concerns for parts of New Zealand’s primary-production sectors, says Plant & Food Research New Zealand principal scientist Dr Brent Clothier.

Twiice has its sights set on the UK – and is looking for backing to unlock the opportunity to scale into the vast Northern Hemisphere market and continue to stamp out single-use plastic.

The plant-based desserts venture will use some of the funding on export pilots for the US and Australia.

The firm is snapped up by acquisitive international logistics management company VerifyMe, providing the Kiwi business with a springboard into the US.

Global food ingredients innovator Azelis has snapped up a Kiwi speciality distributor with a network of more than 200 strategic principals across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

The precision fermentation start-up closes an oversubscribed funding round backed by fellow alt-diary specialist and Raglan Food co-founder Latesha Randall.

Christchurch plant-based manufacturer Grater Goods is looking to scale up manufacturing to expand in NZ and make a move into Australia.

Hospitality group Savor says it has successfully completed its fully underwritten capital raise to shareholders.

TradeWindow says it has raised $5.4m in its discounted non-underwritten capital raising, well short of the $20m it was seeking.

Fonterra is progressing its condition sales of its Chilean Soprole business to Gloria Foods, having received sign-off from the country’s competition authority.

The scene is set for a cool down in merger and acquisition activity following two years of peak deals fuelled by cheap money and a strong economy, according to PwC.

Wellington brewer Parrotdog has set a $2m minimum target for a capital raise taking place via Snowball Effect.

Research, Science and Innovation Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall recently announced two new contestable funds, He tipu ka hua and He aka ka toro, that will inject up to $10m into Māori research capability.

The Connecticut-headquartered company has enlisted investment bank JP Morgan to explore a sales process for the company, which could fetch an estimated US$10bn.

Mushroom meat startup had to navigate capital markets going into shutdown and plant-based sentiment souring to close its $13m series A round.

Global investors have lined up behind the Australian alt-meat startup’s $13m series A round, despite a cool-down rippling through the plant-based meat sector.

The government is investing more than $2m into research on the potential of regenerative farming practices to boost carbon in vegetable and other ground crop-growing soil.

Hospitality software company Loaded Reports has raised $3.25m in equity and debt to help drive expansion overseas.

“The investment will help us grow our presence in the NZ market and hit some of the milestones we want to achieve this year,” says co-founder Mrinali Kumar.

An Australian private equity firm and owner of sausage maker Hellers is buying the company which owns Boost Juice and Betty’s Burgers.

“The group is now well positioned to accelerate its growth through existing and new venues, as well as exploring M&A opportunities as they arise,” says Savor.

A difficult environment with little respite ahead in 2023 prompts some F&B founders to cut their losses.

Hospitality technology platform First Table is preparing to hit the fundraising trail early this year.

A new venture capital fund set up to invest in New Zealand’s food sector as part of a focus on the “new” sustainable economy already has two deals underway.

New Zealand Trade & Enterprise has appointed a three-strong independent advisory panel to support New Zealand’s new Active Investor Plus visa scheme.

T&G Global has sold another apple orchard to the New Zealand Superannuation Fund rural investment manager, FarmRight.

A NZ firm aiming for a slice of the US$71bn global dried foods market is live with a capital raise to kick-start development of a network of innovative toll-drying hubs around the globe.

The two-year SFF Futures/AGMARDT co-funded project aims to help vineyard owners identify and replace unproductive grapevine.

TradeWindow is planning to raise up to $20m via a non-underwritten capital raising to drive growth, scale and profitability.

The Wellington coffee company has revised down its crowdfunding ambitions after falling short of its initial $500k – $1.5m target range.

This year has been a fertile one for F&B fundraising, with an array of companies successfully – and a few unsuccessfully – looking at home and abroad to fill their coffers.

Mainfreight chief executive Don Braid said the company is expecting to invest $707m across the next two years into its global logistics portfolio.

A flurry of F&B-related takeovers completed in the final quarter of 2022, closing out a solid year for NZ food industry mergers and acquisitions.

The company is preparing a 2023 capital raise to drive expansion and help lift annual brewing capacity to five million litres.

Seafood company Sanford has signed a contract with Netherland’s based Damen Shipbuilding Maaskant for the design and build of a new scampi vessel for operation in the Southern Ocean.

The government has approved a loan of up to $1.25m to hospitality software company Loaded Reports.

Farmed fresh whitebait could be hitting the market as early as February next year, following the commencement of a scale-up project in Bluff.

New Zealand agritech startup 26 Seasons has secured government cash to help the scale-up of its domestic vertical farming operation as it looks to close its $5.5m capital raise early next year.

The government has launched Rautaki mo te Taurikura – Embracing change for prosperity, which it says is a detailed plan to support the Māori food and fibre sector.

The Overseas Investment Office has granted consent to Craigmore Sustainables Management Group to purchase 234 hectares of Blenheim land for a new vineyard.

A consortium of investors keen to buy out SeaDragon minority shareholders have tabled a formal offer.

Torere Macadamias is in talks with investors to bring forward the next stage of a 10-year growth plan for the Māori macadamia industry.

The acquisitive foodservice distributor adds another butcher and its retail brand to its growing portfolio.

The country has its first cultivated meat company – and it has gone niche to go big.

The former Air NZ CEO says there’s a significant opportunity to produce more sustainable, innovative beverage containers for drinks producers and brands.

Contract wine bottler and warehouser WineWorks is investing $52m in a four-year expansion plan to combat glass shortages and supply chain woes hitting winemakers.

Black Cap and Rockit Global ambassador Kane Williamson is putting skin in the game when it comes to his partnership with the miniature apple exporter.

Since launching in 2014, the platform has raised tens of millions of dollars for food and beverage manufacturers and grocery retailers.

An initiative to reduce emissions by matching freight with existing capacity is among 11 transport projects to share $2.14m in government support.

The paneer maker is on the hunt for new capital as it ramps up production, with further supermarket and exports deals in the pipeline.

A new majority owner for Waiheke Island’s Stonyridge Vineyard has plans for export growth.

The Auckland-based jerky manufacturer says its new investor has not only injected growth capital it has also unlocked a 20x capacity increase.

International wine heavyweight Edmond de Rothschild Heritage paid $10m to buy Akarua in Central Otago from local rich-listers the Skeggs family.

A twelve-week capital-raising preparation programme for food and fibre businesses has been launched by Palmerston North innovation development business, The Factory.

The proposed new Centre for Climate Action on Agricultural Emissions unveiled in Budget 2022 is on track to be up and running by the end of the year, according to MPI.

Behemoth Brewing Company is closing in on its $3m target going into the last five days of its capital raise on Snowball Effect.

Institutional dairy investment fund Southern Pastures has been included in the annual benchmark report released by the Responsible Investment Association Australasia for the seventh year running.

The aquaculture company is developing a prototype for what it says is NZ’s first sustainable, land-based salmon farm.

Cooks Coffee Group’s estimated number of outlets is likely to be over 200 by full year 2025 if its current growth rate keep up.

Biotech company Greenfern has opened its rights issue.

Peoples Coffee says more than 500 people have pre-registered their interest in its fundraise campaign, which opens this Friday.

Christchurch-based NZCS says it is a “unique opportunity” to establish an Australian base.

A multi-million dollar investment into a new Taranaki dairy factory is behind one of the latest brands to hit supermarket shelves.

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After raising and borrowing more than $7m over the past two years, SeaDragon says it is seeing signs of promise in its value-add plan.

The Wellington-based coffee company is looking to boost production capacity and go after supermarket shelf space.

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Private equity-owned pet food company Ziwi has been cleared to buy Hastings-based Freeze Dried Foods NZ and its subsidiary Kiwigarden.

Reefton Distilling Co hosted local dignitaries, iwi, shareholders, staff and board on the weekend on 24 and 25 September for the opening of its new distillery.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has officially opened New Zealand Wine Centre–Te Pokapū Wāina o Aotearoa in Blenheim.

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The Christchurch-based diversified agribusiness invests in pet food processing and edible by-products operations in Australia.

A Kaipaki Dairies initiative is among the first recipients of the government’s $50m Plastics Innovation Fund.

Plant-based food venture VV Mylk is part of the four-strong line-up participating at the Rotorua Pitch Night on 28 September.

Kono is a Kiwi business that proves “time and time again that purpose and profit can go hand-in-hand,” says the new campaign.

The Wellington wine tech startup has landed “some of the biggest wineries in the US” as customers, and secured a spot at TechCrunch Disrupt.

“We are excited about this unique opportunity to take some of Australia and NZ’s best-loved brands to the next level,” says the Hong Kong-based investor, one of Asia’s largest PE firms.

The US investor wrote the first cheque into Impossible Foods and led a $22m Series A in a Kiwi venture – what is it looking for and why NZ?

Basketball star Steven Adams and Zespri boss Dan Mathieson are the latest high-profile investors to back the brain food technology venture.

Countdown has opened the first supermarket designed and built to meet rigorous Green Star standards in Christchurch.

Foodstuffs North Island has opened a new $10m custom-built transport and warehouse facility in Whangarei.

Research into the value of octopus to NZ aquaculture is one of the food system projects to share more than $30m of investment.

Key account with Coles adds Australian heft while the route-to-market in the US is a reciprocal brew under license partnership.

“We see a clear opportunity to win in critical segments of the global wellbeing nutrition space,” says chief innovation and brand officer, Komal Mistry-Mehta.

Biotech company Greenfern Industries has opened a $1.2m offer to wholesale investors.

Among the big opportunities from the new partnership could be a push in Europe for the Waikato company’s mānuka honey brand Haddrell’s.

Mrs Higgins owner Rangatira Investments has completed its capital raise to eligible existing and new wholesale investors.

The Mother Earth and Alison’s Pantry owner brings on a significant European partner to drive growth opportunities.

The Auckland business is undertaking its third – and biggest – capital raise to scale into a “large independent craft brewer”.

Move Logistics Group has signed a $15.2m agreement to acquire the business and assets of Fluidex Transport, a domestic bulk liquids and bulk dry powder transport provider with recurring revenue of $11m.

The plant-based food manufacturer is looking for investors to back both its short and long-term growth ambitions.

New Zealand agritech startup 26 Seasons is looking for $5.5m to expand its domestic vertical farming operation and establish a footprint abroad for its premium strawberries.

Three pilot projects in Paeroa, Taranaki and Wānaka have each received a share of $8m to revitalise te Taiao and share their pathway with others seeking to revitalise te Taiao in their places.

Meal kit company My Food Bag has invested $5m into picking technology that it says will create operating efficiencies and and unlock growth via customisation and its grocery offer.

A total of 29 Pacific businesses located across regional New Zealand have received up to a $100,000 each from the Pacific Aotearoa Regional Enterprise Fund, said Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio.

A fishing technology venture developed by Sealord Group, Moana New Zealand, Sanford, and Plant & Food Research has received government backing as it moves to commercialise.

The seaweed company secures backing from the government’s Regional Strategic Partnership Fund for a $1.5m expansion of its Waikato plant.

A 140m² extension to the FoodSouth Building, located at Lincoln University, has been officially opened by FoodSouth chair Alan Malcolmson.

Tony Falkenstein’s Just Life Group is adding Natural Solutions NZ to its ‘Healthy Living’ division, following its purchase of About Health and Intenza New Zealand.

Marlborough Lines is looking to sell down its investment in Yealands Wine Group and reinvest the money in its electricity lines business.

Grocery sector challenger Supie has raised $3.5m via public platform Snowball Effect.

A new piece of patent-pending kit will unlock domestic capacity, while an international opportunity is also being assessed.

The premium dairy company is taking its single serve sustainable butter product global, supported by a significant investment in its Hamilton plant.

The government has created a new investor category aimed at increasing direct foreign investment in New Zealand businesses.

The race is on for NZ Functional Foods to sign up high net worth, institutional, and ESG investors to fund the balance of its $60m oat milk factory.

The RSPF investment will support development of a factory for sustainable plastics venture, Plentyful.

Booster has added a stake in CellCo to its Booster Innovation Fund portfolio.

Investing into the alternative protein sector could save more carbon emissions than decarbonising 95% of the aviation sector, says BCG.

Mrs Higgins owner Rangatira Investments has opened its $50m capital raise to eligible existing and new wholesale investors.

The sustainable seafood distribution business has been bought by its former national sales manager, chef Martin Bosley.

Will the $6m Regional Strategic Partnership Fund investment be the catalyst for the $50m NZ Functional Food project to move forward?

Clean-tech startup Cetogenix has raised $4.5m in seed funding for its organic waste to renewable energy venture.

Regional development agency Venture Taranaki has launched nine new food and fibre value chain opportunities focused on diversifying the region’s existing offerings.

The biscuit firm’s founders exit, leaving the investor mulling options – could a sale be on the cards?

More than $15m was invested in 2021 in NZ TIN200-related agritech companies, like vineyard data venture Cropsy.

Cider company Zeffer has raised $749,104 via Snowball Effect.

King Honey owner Me Today says it has placed $750,000 of the shortfall arising from its rights issue, bringing the total capital raised to approximately $7.5m.

Booster has added a stake in Hot Lime Labs to its innovation fund portfolio with a $361,000 investment into the startup.

The investment will see the Nelson brewer capture and re-use its CO2 emissions, giving it surety of supply and reducing its carbon footprint.

Rangatira Investments is looking to raise $50m to support the on-going growth of the firm which owns food manufacturer Mrs Higgins.

Supie has opened its $5m capital raise to the public.

Its caffeinated sparkling water is a first for NZ, with the beverage business also securing new brand and distribution partnerships, as well as nearing completion of a capital raise.

Growing sheep milk supply, new market development and NPD to build on its range of infant formula, milk powder and nutrition products are all part of $20m programme.

The Commerce Commission has granted clearance for Lineage Logistics New Zealand to buy Cold Storage Nelson.

Improving the sustainability and productivity of New Zealand’s food system will not be enough to fortify against challenges such as climate change and new consumer and geopolitical landscapes.

Bay of Plenty’s Ohiwa Black Diamond truffles is receiving more than $155,000 of government funding over three year to share its knowledge with interested growers so New Zealand can grow enough truffles for a robust export industry.

The shortlist includes a new pea protein venture targeting the fast-growing market in plant-based foods.

King Honey owner Me Today has opened its $10m rights issue offering eligible shareholders the opportunity to participate at $0.01 per share.

Arnott’s has developed plans to install renewable solar power systems across its biggest sites in Australia, as well as its head office.

The wholesale marketplace startup has been backed by a range of early stage investors to go for growth in Australia and the US.

The government is investing $4m over four years from the Ministry of Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund to expand a biosecurity readiness and response app developed by Onside.

Economic development agency Venture Taranaki is set to launch 10 new food and fibre investment opportunities focused on diversifying the region’s opportunities. 

The online supermarket startup is seeking growth capital to drive a big jump in revenue in 2023.

The seed funding gives the startup a 12 – 18 month runway as it looks to improve and deploy its tech, grow subscribers numbers and sign partnerships with Foodstuffs and Woolworths.

The new facility will shore up its South Island chilled supply chain and comes just weeks ahead of the opening of its $150m Auckland Fresh DC.

Comvita has scotched reports that it is in talks over a proposed take-private by shareholder CR Capital Management, the investment arm of Chine Resources Holdings Co.

Hospitality group Savor has posted an improved EBITDA of $3m for the year to 31 March, compared with $2m in the prior year.

The healthcare and wellness group is downsizing its honey operations and raising cash to invest in its brands and international distribution.

ComCom finds the acquisition was unlikely to substantially lessen competition in any New Zealand market. 

The biotech and future food venture gets backing from iwi, food stalwarts and NBA basketball star Steven Adams.

The plant-based food manufacturer gets a loan of up to $1.25m from the government’s Regional Strategic Partnership Fund.

Total investment and divestment activity across all investment stages increased to $4.3b in 2021, up from $2.5b in 2020, according to EY’s New Zealand Private Capital Monitor.

“We’re right behind Coffee Supreme’s current growth plans,” says the PE firm, which has added the business to its growing F&B portfolio.

The global freight giant is building its first cold storage facility in NZ on the back of strong demand from food exporters and importers.

There were 45 M&A deals announced or completed in the first three months of the year, according to PwC’s latest quarterly update, compared with just 11 for the same period last year.

A “strong track record of growth” is to continue at the bakery brand under the PE firm’s new ownership.

Private equity firm Rangatira Investments has seen its net asset value climb from $14.87 last year to $16.27 in the year to March 2022, reflecting a portfolio valuation of $288m.

The snack company is looking for investors to unlock plans to quadruple revenue over the next three years.

The oil extraction technology will be trialled with green-lipped mussel and cannabis manufacturers.

Southern Lamb Investments has closed its full takeover offer of Blue Sky Meats Limited, with acceptances received for 74.87% of the meat processor’s shares.

New Zealand King Salmon has closed its $60.1m underwritten 2.85 for 1 pro rata rights offer.

The government is investing $110.9m as part of Budget 2022 to protect the primary sector from biosecurity threats and continue its Mycoplasma Bovis eradication.

An eight-month project to explore the bioactive properties of Aotearoa cherries to better understand their potential health benefits has attracted research funding and is now underway.

“It gives us about five times the footprint and capacity… and that matches our ambitions for 180 Degrees,” says NZ country manager Mike Cullerne.

A Covid-induced strategy reset has seen cider company Zeffer put New Zealand and Australia at the centre of its plan to triple the size of the business in the next three years.

Food & beverage comprised just 4% of the $257.5m invested in early stage investment in New Zealand in 2021, according to a new report.

The company is hitting up new and existing investors in a fresh fundraising, as it secures a major new account for its 0% cider in Australia.

The Auckland independent grocery chain will use the investment to expand its network, as well as upgrade existing properties.

New Zealand King Salmon has opened its $60.1m underwritten pro rata 2.85 for 1 rights offer – the proceeds of which will be used to deleverage its balance sheet and improve liquidity.

The government is investing $7.44m to help New Zealand’s apple industry become a world leader in sustainable production practices.

Alternative protein trends could promote a global transformation in the seafood industry, according to GFI.

Romano’s Food Group is aiming to complete the rebuild of its Christchurch pizza factory by the last quarter of the year.

Alongside the capital raise, the company is making structural changes to its farming model, slashing costs and shedding jobs.

The company says it will make a “material announcement regarding its full year results and a potential cap raise”.

The iwi-controlled entity makes its first foray into aquaculture as part of a jv with private equity.

Investors include Rocket Lab-backer Khosla Ventures, a new Ngāi Tahu vehicle, and Kiwi-born US-based NBA star Steven Adams.

The online grocery challenger is looking for more backers after strong growth in members and revenue over the last quarter.

The Nelson nut butter company is throwing its support behind a Plant and Food Research-led feasibility study to see if almonds can be grown sustainably in Hawke’s Bay.

New Zealand based agri-tech company Bluelab has acquired automation company Autogrow as part of a global strategy to expand operations into new territories and increase its range of technology offerings to customers.

Proper Snack Foods GM Andy Leonard says challenging shipping and rising costs provided extra motivation to establish manufacturing across the ditch.

New Zealand Coastal Seafoods Limited is raising $1.5m from new and existing shareholders.

Independent directors and advisers say Southern Lamb’s $3 offer price falls short of recognising the full value of the Southland meat processor.

Southern Lamb Investments’ takeover offer of Blue Sky Pastures has gone unconditional after receiving more than 50% share acceptances.

The High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge is contributing $980,000 into a Plant & Food Research led programme looking at native honey and what appeals to consumers.

The Queensland factory recognises the growth Frucor Suntory believes is possible, says boss Darren Fullerton.

The completion of Auckland pub group Good Spirits Hospitality’s conditional takeover of restaurant owner Nourish Group has been delayed until Q2.

Investments in ventures like Raglan Food Co and Sustainable Foods are a vote of confidence in New Zealand’s burgeoning plant-based sector.

Pioneer brings capital and connections to support Raglan Food’s vision to be leader in plant-based products.

Alternative protein player Sustainable Foods has closed its capital raise reaching a total of $2.15m.

The Ministry for Primary Industries Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund is contributing $493,500 to a $823,500 research programme to create a digital farm environment plan.

An investor takes a multimillion-dollar majority stake in Sebastian Walter and Latesha Randall’s plant-based venture.

Mt Cook Alpine Salmon’s quarterly auction has gone live on Catalist .

The ingredient supplier dodged supply chain disruption to pick up foodservice and industrial clients left in the lurch.

Gallagher and the Royal Barenbrug Group have backed Christchurch-based agritech firm Farmote Systems.

The government has entered the mussel hatchery business acquiring equity in an iwi-run venture and committing up to $6m.

The venture uses molecular farming technology to cut the cows out of protein production.

The project will provide Southern Fresh with year-round production of baby leaf salads, herbs, and vegetables. 

Auckland-headquartered international coffee chain Cooks Global Foods has issued 80,989,340 new shares at 3 cents each totalling $2.43m following a shortfall from its rights issue last year.

The healthcare and wellness company has had to turn to its investors for cash after being surprised by inventory levels after its acquisition of King Honey.

Australian fuel retailer Ampol has been cleared by the Commerce Commission for its $2bn purchase of Z Energy.

The QSR franchise has used the pandemic to validate new food concepts, and is now working up a plan for a bricks and mortar rollout.

The current shareholders will be able to cash out of the company, currently generating nearly $40m in revenue, via the new capital platform.

The innovative beverage maker plans to push up its valuation ahead of dusting off a delayed $5m capital raise.

About $1m is being invested into a land-based seaweed trial beside the Firth of Thames wetland.

Eat New Zealand has secured up to $275,000 of government funding to support its multi-day Feast Matariki festival.

A $30m capex requirement and a desire for long-term sustainability are the motivations for Blue Sky Pastures investors Scott O’Donnell and Andrew Lowe to launch their takeover offer.

The company is looking for investment to scale-up production of its home compostable packaging.

A flurry of F&B-related takeovers were recorded in the final quarter of 2021, closing out a record year for mergers and acquisitions in New Zealand, according to PwC.

The entrepreneur is hoping for a “table-thumping” final report on Tuesday, paving the way for a third major player in NZ’s $22bn grocery sector.

Economist Cameron Bagrie rejects the argument that New Zealand’s credit rating could be hurt if the supermarket giants are forced to divest.

SeaDragon has secured a new loan agreement of $500,000 from majority shareholder Pescado Holdings, as well as pushing out the repayment date of an existing loan facility.

The sheep milk company is looking to diversify from its heavy reliance on the Chinese market, with the US, Japan and Singapore in its sights.

GM Matt Williams says the company is eyeing a fundraise to fuel expansion and help satisfy the double-digit sales growth of its premium bars.

The avocado oil producer’s acquisition commercialises its waste-stream and provides an export opportunity to boot.

Me Today Group has called a special meeting for Friday 18 March to seek approval from shareholders for a $6m placement of additional share capital.

Fonterra is to operate New Zealand’s first electric 46T milk tanker.  

The company says it wants to consolidate ownership of the mānuka honey sector to generate operating leverage and drive “higher category standards”.

Derek Handley’s climate tech firm Aera VC has raised US$30m to invest in startups tackling sustainability across all sectors including food.

Halfback TJ Perenara makes a “significant and material” investment in the plant-based business.

Waikato-based Ngāti Hauā Iwi Trust is to receive more that $2m to develop a new horticultural programme and education hub.

The Nelson nut butter business looks to new SKUs and overseas expansion in its hunt for further growth.

The investor expands its new mānuka honey platform with the addition of a second business.

Freightways is investing $40m into a new Waikato cold store to meet growing demand for its fresh and frozen logistics business.

Alcohol is driving the West Auckland kombucha maker’s sales, as it eyes expansion overseas and a potential capital raise.

Fast-food and tetra pak cartons destined for the landfill are being converted into building supplies, thanks to Freightways investment.

Logistics providers are tapping into a global shift away by FMCG from a ‘just-in-time’ towards a ‘just-in-case’.

A major horticulture project is underway in northern Hawke’s Bay to lift the productivity of Maori-owned land.

The Commerce Commission is considering an application by Life Health Foods NZ to purchase 100% of meat alternative manufacturer Chalmers Organics.

The purchased business will be consolidated into Service Foods’ new $36m Trentham DC.

A multi-million-dollar investment is to look at how hemp can be made into food packaging and other innovations.

The current backers are seeking fresh investment to bring forward plans for an Aquaculture Centre of Excellence in the deep south.

Seeka has completed its acquisition of Gisborne-based New Zealand Fruits in a deal that values the latter at $21m.

The Warehouse founder’s venture capital fund backs NZ ventures seeking global exposure.

Capital raising for food and beverage ventures on crowdfunding platform Snowball Effect fell to $4.7m in 2021, down 65% on the $13.3m raised in 2020.

Bostock has partnered with Milford Private Equity to grow and market a South Island organic apple variety to overseas customers.

Proposed Rolleston development could add a fifth DC to Countdown’s national network, with focus on fresh and perishable product lines.

Healthcare and animal care company Ebos Group says it has successfully raised $674m from existing and new investors across New Zealand, Australia and further afield.

The world’s most powerful investors urge the global food industry to produce healthier products.

The government is investing nearly $2m into a $5m commercial regenerative seaweed farming pilot that aims to provide proof-of-concept for commercial scale production.

NZX-listed international coffee chain Cooks Global Foods has set a price of 3 cents a share for a rights issue, which is targeting $8m to restructure its balance sheet.

The SOE targets the healthy ageing category for the longterm commercial success of its ‘world first’ product.

Nut butter baron Pic Picot is pushing ahead with his mission to develop homegrown peanuts by bringing forward a project to support marketing opportunities for the spread.

The Auckland craft beer business says it is making a multi-million dollar investment into its brewery and scaling up staff numbers.

The Lewis Road founder says his new advisory firm is looking to work with F&B founders with a global proposition – often in exchange for a stake.

Burger Fuel signals a holding pattern while UK-heavy CGF rides the first wave of the global recovery.

The purpose-led company commits to being a customer of New Zealand’s first purpose-built oat milk processing factory.

New Zealand beauty and supplement company Jeuneora has closed its capital raise after hitting its maximum target of $3.5m.

The salad supplier grapples with increasing costs and conducts a review of margins to ensure acceptable returns.

A handful of heavyweight FMCG deals support a record quarter of M&A activity according to PwC.

The plant-based giant arrives in NZ and tells the Ticker how it plans to make an impact on the market.

The funds will be ploughed into scale-up for a US foodservice launch of animal-free mozzarella next year.

CEO Kevin Bowler tells the Ticker what he’s looking for in any acquisition – and it may not have to be in food.

The apple exporter seeks capital to invest in meeting global demand for its Jazz and Envy apples.

The pilot project aims to enable locally grown hemp food products to compete with imported goods.

The 12-month programme provides access to Countdown’s customer marketing and insights teams, as well as product development and manufacturing support.

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The FMCG investor says it backs brands with a point of difference and potential to scale.

The Dunedin chocolate maker plans to boost production and sales, and launch a new entry product to help it expand north following a $500k capital raise.

Milford Asset Management has increased its holdings in meal kit company My Food Bag to 8.79%.

The Auckland pub group gobbles up Nourish in a “transformational growth opportunity” creating one of New Zealand’s largest hospitality operators.

New Zealand’s signing of the US/EU Global Methane Pledge at COP26 could become a “massive structural risk to our food and fibre sector,” says KPMG’s Ian Proudfoot.

New Zealand food and beverage startups managed to secure about $3.7m in early stage investment during the first half of 2021.

US consumers are a big focus for the dairy company’s increased volumes, and the UK is on the agenda thanks to the proposed FTA.

The New Zealand Truffle Company says it is pleased with interest from both NZ and overseas and is targeting mid-December to complete its capital raise.

The Mother Earth owner says its acquisition of Sunsol and Lucky is a “leap forward” in a key international market for the Hamilton-based business.

New Zealand’s largest kiwifruit grower says it has negotiated an increased debt facility of $190m, up from $152m.

Australian petrol company Ampol has applied for Commerce Commission approval for its $2bn purchase of Z Energy.

Functional beverage startup Little Elephant Tonics is seeking up to $230,000 in capital to help fund exports to the US and Australia.

Omega fish oils refiner SeaDragon says it has signed a new secured loan agreement of up to $1.5m with its majority shareholder, Pescado Holdings.

The produce giant will use the cash to fuel its growth strategy, as it faces a profit squeeze from Covid-19.

New entrants, existing players and would-be investors are all wary of the power wielded by the grocery duopoly, the Commerce Commission hears.

Onions New Zealand says the government’s commitment to invest $2.83m to enhance the competitive advantage of the country’s onions producers will help transform the industry.

FGC says NZ’s highly concentrated market means conflicts of interests are amplified but supermarket groups argue private labels are critical for budget consumers.

The winemaker is bringing forward a multi-million dollar investment into its low and no alcohol range, which has raced ahead of sales forecasts.

The hemp meat trailblazer is looking to drive growth both here and overseas.

The latest deal sees Freightways expand its grip over the express chilled and frozen food transport sector following 2020’s Big Chill purchase.

Z Energy’s portfolio of 481 New Zealand petrol stations is set to go into new ownership after a $2bn takeover offer from Australian petrol company was recommended by its board of directors.

Chapman Tripp has confirmed that Christchurch investment group the South Island Office paid A$95m ($100.25m) to buy dessert company Sara Lee from McCain Foods.

Law firm Simpson Grierson’s latest M&A report puts a value of US$1.057bn on FountainVest Partners’ purchase of NZ pet food company Ziwi Peak – the third largest New Zealand deal this year.

An A$45m (NZ$47.7m) investment into innovation over the past 15 years in Australasia has seen cereal and snack company Kellogg New Zealand remove more than 700 tonnes of sugar and 300 tonnes of salt from their foods.

The Gisborne business is pumping millions into its pilot undercover growing project to test the environmental and productivity gains it can unlock.

Foley Wines has lined up the purchase of a 55.5-hectare Central Otago pinot noir vineyard to supply grapes to its Mt Difficulty Roaring Meg brand.

Investor and customer interest is being lined up for the $50m Southland oat milk factory, keeping it on track for a 2022 opening.

Auckland’s The Kefir Co and Christchurch’s Badass Brownies are looking for funds via crowdfunding platform PledgeMe.

A close-to million dollar investment into a new canning line releases a packaging bottle neck and opens up contract manufacturing opportunities.

The head of the US giant’s Kiwi business on its $45m investment in innovation, supply chain ‘whack-a-mole’, and is she applying for Kellogg’s top ANZ job?

Meadow Mushrooms, Talley’s and Mataura Valley Milk among latest recipients of $70m GIDI fund.

Franchising drive aims to convert 2% of NZ’s 5,000 convenience stores to Circle K banner.

After a rollercoaster 2020, No Ugly is gearing up for growth undertaking a $2m capital raise as it looks to transition from a functional beverage business to a broader health and wellness company.

Winemaker Delegat Group says it will invest $29.7m in FY22 to provide earnings growth in the years ahead.

A strategy reset will see billions invested in “differentiating NZ milk on the world stage” to drive the co-op up the value chain.

Four months on from its acquisition of 180 Degrees, Arnott’s is dodging Delta disruption and preparing to push the premium cracker brand.

The sale to the Chinese private equity firm provides the pet food business with access to capital and global market intelligence.

Chinese private equity players FountainVest and Boyu have been linked to $1bn-plus bids for Ziwi.

Countdown is set to build a 3,490 square metre green star-rated supermarket in a 3.4-hectare residential development in Halswell, Christchurch – the supermarket chain’s largest development to date.

Three Sisters Brewery is looking to raise $1.5m to help boost production capacity tenfold, expand its retail network and enter the Australian market.

A three year project to rebuild FSNI’s supply chain was delivered just in time for Delta, and sets the co-op up for an increasingly digital future.

The government’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund is contributing $2.6m towards a $5m project to develop a commercial-scale autonomous robotic asparagus harvester.

The foodtech startup is moving from a successful trial with Fonterra to one with US dairy company Valley Queen Cheese.

Beverage business Lion New Zealand has been fined $10,000 for breaching the Overseas Investment Act when it bought a South Island leasehold farm in 2017.

Ngāi Tahu Holdings CEO Mike Pohio says the iwi-controlled entity remains on the lookout for food investments following its $38m buy-up of Sanford shares.

The plant-based milk business will ring-fence 1% of sales revenue to invest into making oats a “viable and exciting” alternative for farmers to grow.

Ngāi Tahu Investment now holds a 19.9% stake in seafood company Sanford, making it the largest single shareholder in what is New Zealand’s largest seafood company.

The acquisitive wholesaler is considering bringing in a private investor or an IPO as it looks for long-term capital.

Icehouse Ventures, Hillfarrance Scout Fund and ArcAngels back Christchurch plant-based startup.

Kombucha company Batchwell raised just over $1m in its equity capital raise, exceeding its minimum target of $700,000.

A New Zealand chef who pioneered the development of avocado milk has teamed up with a buttercup squash grower to develop a new plant-milk destined for export markets in Asia.

With deployments in ventures like Rockit and Sunfed, NZ Growth Capital Partners outlines what it looks for in food and agritech.

Co-founders Ali Alomari and Leila Deljkovic are sounding out investors as the startup preps for a commercial pilot in Marlborough.

CEO David Hughes is looking for partners in emerging areas such as orchard automation and urban horticulture.

US food-tech company Ripple Foods collected $549,450 from New Zealand wholesale investors in its oversubscribed $55m fundraising round.

Functional drinks and an expansion out of beverages are all in the mix for the kombucha company currently raising capital.

This startup will seek the funding after trialling its hyperlocal online grocery service in Auckland.

Think you know reusable takeaway coffee cup company Again Again? Think again (again).

Dunedin probiotics firm Blis Technologies has been given access to a raft of new global opportunities after selling a 13% stake to form a strategic partnership with Swedish giant Probi.

Michal Garvey’s Auckland-based food waste startup has signed its first cafes in the capital.

The 12-week accelerator is focused on helping encourage a more diverse supplier base in Aotearoa.

The US plant-based dairy company backed by Goldman Sachs and Prelude Ventures has opened the round to New Zealand wholesale investors.

The brewer is making a big move into the no alcohol beer market, which is says will be worth $25bn globally by 2024.

With global challenges to supply chains, productivity, climate change and food security, New Zealand’s startup ecosystem is responding with new companies emerging, networks deepening and investment broadening.

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise is calling for applications for Te Kōmaru – its annual Māori investment showcase.

The jerky startup has secured funding for a new facility to help more than double production.

Organic small batch Kombucha maker Batchwell has launched a capital raise with funds set to be ploughed into production capability, portfolio expansion and increased sales and marketing.

Described as a milk factory in a box, Happy Cow Milk Company, has today launched its second capital raise as it looks to scale-up its prototype into paddocks and retailers around the country.

A sparkling mead maker, a plant-based food manufacturer, and a probiotic kefir company are among twelve startups selected for Sprout’s accelerator.

The speciality grocer has inked a deal that will see it open its seventh Auckland store, and is close to signing on another.

New Zealand’s largest kiwifruit grower, Seeka, has bought a $2.6m minority stake in hort tech startup Fruitometry.

NZX-listed probiotics firm Blis Technologies said its strategic partnership with Swedish giant Probi will open up “significant growth opportunities” and see the New Zealand firm’s products delivered to new markets around the globe.

Package-free, lifestyle grocery store GoodFor has raised $2.2m of fresh cash, hitting its maximum capital raise target.

Wellington startup Marama Labs is charting a course for global growth after raising $1.25m for its winemaking technology.

Package-free, lifestyle grocery store GoodFor has raised more than $1.8m of capital on fundraising platform Snowball Effect – exceeding its minimum target of $1.7m.

The plant-based startup is seeking investment as it targets annual sales of $1.2m after fielding enquiries from overseas.

A South Island private equity firm is looking for more horticulture investments after finalising and funding a two-part deal which sees it become a major supplier and IP owner in New Zealand’s fruit tree market

The future of meat prices and production are likely to be challenged by the emergence of a cultivated meat sector on track to become a US$25bn global industry by 2030, according to a new report from McKinsey.

New Zealand’s food industry is in a prime position to capitalise on Covid-era export opportunities but must overcome capacity challenges on home soil first.

The TIN New Zealand Agritech Insights Report 2021 details the leading syndicates of angel groups and local venture capital funds underpinning the growing sector.

DMS Progrowers is doubling the size of its existing Te Puke packhouse investing $40m into the project.

Tauranga-based private equity firm Oriens Capital has raised its target of $80m for its second fund.

Food firms like Pic’s Peanut Butter have helped chip in $139m taking total investment to quarter of a billion dollars.

UK plant-based meat maker Meatless Farm has launched a £5m ($9.9m) crowdfunding campaign with retail investors able to buy in for just £10.

Package-free grocery store GoodFor is closing in on the half-way point of its capital raise target after the offer went live to the public this week.

A new stock exchange is to be launched in New Zealand targeting small to medium-sized companies who want to access public investment but are too small to list on the NZX.

South Island Office invests $30m in its first food acquisition and says there are more deals in the pipeline.

A clinical trial that could underpin the development of deer milk as a new industry in New Zealand has secured $244,000 of funding from the HVN Challenge.

Kiwifuit company Seeka has delayed a decision on developing a new packhouse at Pukenga by pledging a $20m upgrade at an existing packhouse.

Food & beverage has proved to be the most popular sector for online investment marketplace Snowball Effect which said close to a third of the first $100m it has raised to date has gone to the innovative sector.

Rockit Global has officially opened its new global headquarters in New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay, unveiling a a brand refresh at the same time.

Global ingredient company Kerry aims to be at the forefront of taste trends across New Zealand and Australia with the opening of a new multi-million dollar purpose-built food technology and innovation centre in Queensland.

The new online grocery service will be looking for investment within a year, says founder Sarah Balle.

Miniature apple company Rockit Global is ready to cut the red ribbon on its new circa $40m global headquarters following a bumper harvest.

The Singapore-based cultured food startup has reached out to NZ food regulators ahead of its planned product launch.

With even institutional investors wanting green metrics, there has been a convergence of mainstream and impact investment in the agrifoodtech community.

New Zealand virtual fencing startup, Vence, has raised $16m which will help it prepare for its entry into the Australian and US markets.

The CEO says global investor KKR will accelerate the premium pet food firm’s international expansion.

Food as medicine, medicinal plants and food personalisation are all the radar of US agrifood venture capital investor, AgFunder, as categories of opportunity.

MPI is seeking more applicants from the food sector for SFF Futures funding.

Described as the biggest food and fibre event of the year, the Boma NZ Agri Summit kicks-off in Christchurch this morning.

The Ticker sits down with Finistere’s investment manager to find out what NZ opportunities he will be looking for.

Nestlé’s Launch of Wunda pea milk in Europe follows Coca-Cola expanding into oat milk in the US.

Aotearoa risks being left behind by its international peers in the increasingly competitive emerging protein sector.

Southlander Justin Riley returns home to bring forward Great South’s oat initiative.

The deal catapults Australian biscuit giant Arnott’s into NZ’s premium cracker category.

The New Zealand Meat Board is investing some of its reserves into B+L’s genetics research programme.

CEDA boss Linda Stewart on how AgriFood Week supports Manawatu’s ambition to be one of the world’s top three agrihubs by 2025.

The deal sees Pioneer Capital exit and the food company fuelled to grow globally.

Higher margin evidence-based health and wellness products present a huge opportunity to change the value of New Zealand’s agriculture and food sectors.

An investment bank has been appointed to marshal growing investor interest in the $50m Southland venture.

Around 8,000 unique investors took part in more than 9,000 transactions in 2020.

The Rockit Global private equity backer will soon be on the hunt for F&B investments.

The vehicle has attracted a $14m commitment from New Zealand Growth Capital Partners.

The funding will see the functional drink company deep dive into indigenous ingredients.

The project will reduce the factory’s carbon emissions by 7%.

The upgrade of its Levin rendering facility will support the co-op’s drive to capture greater value from products.

A new plant-based ice cream is one of five business start-ups moving through to the final stage of Venture Taranaki’s business accelerator, the PowerUp Ideas Competition.

Seeka’s proposed $60m purchase of rival kiwifruit company Opotiki Packing and Cool Storage would create New Zealand’s largest kiwifruit grower with annual revenue of £300m – but it is far from a done deal.

The government has moved to ban new low to medium temperature coal burners from next year.

The package-free grocery store network is planning to expand.

Annual profit rises to $5.2m, but Covid delays push out development of a new Rolleston factory.

The fast-growing alternative protein market is on track to account for 11% of the global protein market by 2035.

NZ smart cart startup says it has finalised deals with two European retailers.

The plant protein startup secures $8m from MPI for a five-year R&D programme.

The Bay of Plenty-based company is looking to expand its footprint in the kiwifruit sector.

An aggressive growth strategy underpins the kombucha maker’s forecast 325% jump in annual revenue.

The West Coast dairy company will double the capacity of its Hokitika butter manufacturing plant.

The agribusiness confirms it is in the running to buy Villa Maria in what would be its first foray into wine.

Significant investment has set the scene for global demand for insect ingredients, says Rabobank.

Whitebait farming could soon become a reality with a $7m project garnering government support.

Southland’s largest employer is automating its warehouse and using laser guided storage and retrieval systems.

The company is on track to dual list on 5 March with a post-IPO market cap of $449m.