Tribute To Retiring Cheese Business Founder

Media Statement
March 15, 2004

Kapiti Fine Foods Pays Tribute To Retiring Cheese Business Founder

Kapiti Fine Foods has announced that one of the founding partners of its cheese business, Ross McCallum, will retire from the company as of March 31, 2004.

As a founding partner of Kapiti Cheeses in 1984, Ross McCallum’s name has become synonymous not only with that business, but with the specialty and premium cheeses market in New Zealand.

Announcing the retirement, the Chief Executive of Kapiti Fine Foods, Greig Shearer, said that Ross McCallum would leave a tremendous legacy, not only in terms of Kapiti Cheeses, but the cheese market in New Zealand.

“He leaves the company in the knowledge of having established a remarkable brand and a discerning product range. Indeed, it is hard to imagine there is a household in New Zealand whose cheese eating habits haven’t been touched by Ross’ vision and entrepreneurship.

“As a founding partner of Kapiti Cheeses, Ross had the foresight to establish an indigenous premium cheese market so that today we have some world-class cheeses which are prized internationally.”

During the past year the ownership of Kapiti Cheeses has changed and the business has been consolidated with a milk production and marketing business to create Kapiti Fine Foods.

Mr Shearer said that with the business entering a new era, Ross decided it was an opportune time to step away.

“We respect his decision. He takes with him our best wishes and thanks, not only from his colleagues in the company, but members of the retail, foodservice and hospitality industries.”

For the past two years Ross has been responsible for developing international market opportunities for Kapiti Cheeses, including the major airlines.

Wendy Stokes will assume responsibility for international sales and support. She has a strong background in customer service through former roles with the New Zealand Dairy Board and Fonterra. Manager for the company’s northern region, Rachel Everett will be responsible for the company’s growing business with international airlines.

ENDS

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