9 December 2010

RNZRSA Media Release

RSA announces new poppy supplier for 2012

RNZRSA Chief Executive Dr Stephen Clarke today announced the new supplier for poppies for Poppy Day will be Cash’s (Australia) Pty Limited.

The poppies are exchanged for a donation throughout New Zealand prior to Anzac Day to raise funds which are used to help all returned servicemen and women in need and their dependants.

Dr Clarke said Poppy Day is the RSA’s major welfare fund raiser and it was vital the returns were maximised for their benefit.

“Until recently Christchurch RSA arranged the national supply of poppies. In 2011 Auckland RSA has also contracted a separate supplier for poppies.

“We decided some time ago that it was necessary to go out to tender to streamline our supply process and ensure the best possible value for money for the veterans. We set up an independent Tender Panel which included Murray Gough OBE (formerly Chief Executive of the NZ Dairy Board) and Hugh Rennie QC. The Tender Panel reviewed the quotes received and the National Executive Committee decided Cash’s (Australia) Pty Limited had provided the best offer.

“Cash’s (Australia) Pty Limited will therefore be the sole poppy supplier to the New Zealand RSA from 2012.”

Dr Clarke said there were some important things to note about the funds raised through Poppy Day.

“All the money raised locally is spent locally – so money raised in a community is spent on the welfare needs of returned servicemen and women in that community.

“As always the RSA is committed to the continuing support of our veterans and to honour the memory of those who have given their lives in times of war or conflict. Ensuring that the Poppy Day fundraiser is successful and earns the maximum amount of funds possible is part of that commitment.”

ENDS

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