18 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Port Waikato: Cobb Vantress Strategic move to secure global supply Karen Phelps Established in 1916, Cobb Vantress is the world’s oldest pedigree broiler breeding company. “Even though we were losing money to do this we have a greater responsibility, which is to supply food. If we didn’t supply those chickens three years down the track in 2023 those markets would not have food.” to page 20 Global chicken supplier Cobb Vantress has helped to transform work opportunities for locals in the Port Waikato region since the company opened its doors there in 2019. New Zealand’s bird flu free status attracted the company to set up its large New Zealand operation in a strategic move to secure global customer supply, says general manager of Cobb Vantress New Zealand Jimmy Chand. Established in 1916, Cobb Vantress is the world’s oldest pedigree broiler breeding company. The company develops, produces, sells and services broiler breeding stock. Healthy birds, continuous genetic progress, superior meat quality, and industry-leading products and technical support are the company’s focuses. Based at Rangiriri, the New Zealand facility has seen an almost $100m investment made in the operation, which employs 120 staff. Opening its New Zealand facility right before a global pandemic was not part of Cobb Vantress’ business plans. The company’s New Zealand facility is responsible for 10% of the global chicken supply. With freight connections to Asia severely affected Cobb Vantress decided to charter flights to ensure global market needs were met and safeguard food supplies for the world. “Even though we were losing money to do this we have a greater responsibility, which is to supply food. If we didn’t supply those chickens three years down the track in 2023 those markets would not have food,” explains Jimmy. Jimmy says that people have always been a major focus for the company, which saw it offer a living wage of $21 in its New Zealand operation from the inception. This has recently been increased to $24.50 in recognition of the pressure placed on people as a result of the pandemic.
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