First-ever canned vegetable exports to Russia

Media Statement
March 23, 2011

First-ever canned vegetable exports to Russia

Heinz Wattie's is shipping it first-ever canned vegetable exports to
Russia.

Canned peas from Canterbury and corn from the Hawke's Bay will be sold
under the Heinz brand, highlighting New Zealand as the Country of
Origin. The Russian label proudly displays a postage symbol with the
words: "New Zealand: Special Edition".

Heinz Wattie's Group Export Manager Donald Park says the company has a
track record of export success with frozen and canned products, but
these are its first products to Russia, a country with which New Zealand
has begun negotiating a Free Trade Agreement.

"Russia is a growing market for consumer products, and the Heinz team
has identified an opportunity for quality canned vegetables grown in New
Zealand."

Mr Park says these products will give Russian consumers a taste of the
quality of New Zealand vegetables.

Following the expansion of the Hasting facilities in 2000 Heinz Wattie's
exports have grown to 55% of production with the major markets being
Australia, Japan, Korea, Europe and USA.

ENDS

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