The Canterbury (NZ) Malting Company Restructures

Neil Barton, Chairman of the Grains Council of Federated Farmers of New Zealand, said today that Canterbury barley growers will miss the Canterbury Malting Company plant at Heathcote. The closure was announced on Tuesday.

Malting barley growers regret the loss of jobs for workers at Heathcote, as the Malting Company consolidates its operation to the Marton plant.

"Growers take comfort from the company's statement that it does not expect the decision will result in any changes to either customers or growers. In addition, the company also intends to buy barley to similar levels from both the South and North Islands is good news for Canterbury growers."

"Over the years, the working relationship between the Malting Company and its growers has been very good, with commendable loyalty exhibited by both growers and the company."

"Barley growers have been aware of the decline in the domestic market for malt for some time. That, combined with the loss of a major export contract, has led the Canterbury Malting Company to this decision."

Malting barley grown in New Zealand is considered some of the best in the world. Likewise, New Zealand malt made from our barley is the finest in the world.

"We hope that the restructured Canterbury Malting Company will be able to develop new export malt markets and expand the options of growing malting barley for farmers."

ENDS

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