Work stoppages hindering efforts

Press, Volume CXIII, Issue 33382, 14 November 1973, Page 19

Work stoppages hindering efforts

Work stoppages in New Zealand freezing works have been undermining efforts to establish markets for New Zealand lamb in Canada.

The Meat Export Development Company (N.Z.), Ltd, told the Meat Industry Commission in Wellington yesterday that a regular trade in! fresh chilled lamb had been; developed to Canada. But! two problems had ariseni which had caused disruptions to the trade and the loss of customer confidence in the company as a reliable supplier. “Unexpected stoppages at Auckland freezing works have, on many occasions, made it necessary for us to cancel, at very short notice, substantial shipments. By the time our customers learn of the cancellation it is too late for them to postpone or cancel press advertising and promotional efforts. “Fresh lamb is wanted off-season. The stores feature it, and are very unforgiving when firm contracts are not honoured. “The lack of reliable

temperature control in jet aircraft leaving for North America, and casual handling and transfer techniques have resulted in some products arriving in poor condition. “If and when Christchurch is granted direct flights to North America, packers in that area willing to prepare fresh lamb shipments for us would receive our full support.”