TOWNS BIDDING FOR CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Manawatu Times, Volume LIV, Issue 6945, 26 June 1929, Page 8

TOWNS BIDDING FOR CHOCOLATE FACTORY

PALMERSTON NORTH’S CLAIMS ADVANCED. The possibility of persuading Messrs. Fry and Cadbury to establish their New Zealand factory in Palmerston North is not being overlooked by the Palmerston North Chamber of Commerce. The president (Mr. M. H. Oram) reported to yesterday’s meeting that when in Wellington, he had seen the New Zealand representative of the firm, who had stated that several towns were endeavouring to secure the factory, but before a decision was reached, all suitable sites would be inspected. Mr. Oram added that in the meantime the secretary would prepare such information as could be submitted to the .firm in support of Palmerston North’s claim. Possibly it would repay tho borough to oiler special inducements in the form of reduced rates or the laying on of various services free of charge. It would pay the Borough council to do jits utmost to induce the firm to erect j premises in Palmerston North. Mr. J. Carter objected that the giving of concessions would create a precedent. j Mr. A. P. Stuart said ho understood the Wanganui Harbour board proposed offering concessions and the chairman referred to Napier, which was also offering inducements.

It was decided to write the firm’s manager, inviting' him to Palmerston North as the guest of the Chamber and Messrs. Oram, W. E. Winks and L. H. Collinson were appointed to give him all possible information about the suitability of Palmerston North as a manufacturing centre.