Grocery Action Group Chair's Annual Report
- kateoktay
- Sep 15
- 4 min read
Annual Report Grocery Action Group
It is with gratitude and determination that I present this annual report on behalf of the Grocery Action Group. Over the past year, our organisation has remained steadfast in its mission to advocate for fairer grocery prices for all New Zealanders. Our collective efforts are making a tangible difference, thanks to the unwavering support of our dedicated board, members, volunteers, and partners.
Engagement and Advocacy
Throughout the year, we have been active in making submissions and engaging in constructive dialogue. This includes with government ministers, including Economic Development Minister Nicola Wills and her staff, and members of the opposition — including valuable meetings with NZ First leader Winston Peters and Labour opposition spokeswoman on groceries, Arena Williams. We have also maintained regular contact with iwi, the media, the Grocery Commissioner, and Consumer NZ, other govt ministries, and suppliers, and trade union representatives to ensure our message resonates widely.
Collaborative Research
Recognising the importance of evidence-based advocacy, we have partnered with Consumer NZ and Max Rashbrooke of the I.D.E.A think tank to develop research around what effective competition could look like within New Zealand’s grocery sector. This critical work continues, supported by the voluntary efforts of analysts, university academics, and other specialists on competition law and regulation who generously share their expertise.
During the year we have also received considerable support and guidance from competition lawyers at Lindsay Francis & Mangan, principally from Lindsay Francis.
Community and Outreach
Our commitment to transparency and connection is reflected in the launch of our website (gag.nz) and social media channels, creating platforms for sharing our work and growing our movement. We have also built meaningful partnerships, such as with Tex Edwards at Monopoly Watch, to unite voices in pursuit of market fairness.
Resourcing and Governance
Securing funding remains a continual challenge, yet our members have shown exceptional generosity. This year saw changes within our board: we acknowledge the significant contributions of departing founding members Ernie Newman, Deb Hart, and Nanaia Mahuta, and warmly welcome new board members, including former Supie head Sarah Balle and PR expert Kate Oktay. Our board remains open to fresh perspectives and new members. We also acknowledge support from Sarah Maguire from Austen Advisory.
We are deeply grateful for the extraordinary and ongoing support from both founding and continuing members, especially Mavis Mullins and Gilbert Peterson, whose dedication inspires our continued progress.
Progress and Outlook
Our ultimate objective is clear: achieving fairer grocery prices for all Kiwis. We are not alone in this ambition. Over the past year, the Grocery Commissioner and the Commerce Commission released two annual reports, each highlighting the serious issues within our grocery industry — including accusations of excessive profit-making.
The OECD also issued a report suggesting competition was lacking in many of New Zealand markets and it pointed to supermarkets as particularly poor. It suggested powers be given to regulators to be able to order structural reform. We totally agree with those comments.
While there is much work ahead, the Grocery Action Group is proud of the strides we have made and remains committed to championing meaningful change. Together, we will continue to advocate, collaborate, and hold the industry to account for the benefit of every New Zealander.
On behalf of the Grocery Action Group, thank you for your ongoing support and belief in our mission.
Sue Chetwin
Chair
Statement of Financial performance (15 Months)
01/01/ 2024 – 31/03/ 2025 (from inauguration)
Income
Donations – Kiwi Number 3 $12,000.00
D&A Marketing 1000.00
From Give a little page 1443.25
G Peterson 10.00
GST refund 1355.25
Total income $15,808.50
Loans outstanding
G Peterson $2,000
M Mullins $1000
Total loans $3000.00
(E Newman - $1500 loan repaid)
Total revenue 18,808.50
Less expenses
IT & misc
Website design (D1 Creative) 2127.50
Website hosting – Wix.com 314.20
Website updates, maintenance (ONZL) 1546.43
Website development (Austen Advisory) 2633.80
Stationery 6.50
$6628.43
Travel & accommodation
E Newman 5654.00
S Chetwin 1255.29
M Mullins 597.50
Total Travel and Accommodation $7506.79
Bank fees $110.00
Total expenses $ 14,245.22
Cash surplus for the period ( Income less expenses) $4563.28
Reconciliation to bank accounts
Opening bank balance - 0.00
Balance No.1 account @ 31/3/2025 $4428.90
Balance No. 2 account @ 31/3/ 2025 (debit card) $134.30
Total $ 4563.20
These accounts have been prepared on a cash basis. The directors have decided to 100% amortise the website build and host cost $6628.43.
GROCERY ACTION GROUP INC
Statement of financial position (15 Months)
01/01/ 2024 – 31/03/ 2025 (from inauguration)
Assets
Current Assets
Balance No.1 account @ 31/3/2025 $4428.90
Balance No. 2 account @ 31/3/ 2025 (debit card) $134.30
Total $ 4563.20
Non-Current Assets
Software ( Web-Site) $6628.43 (100% written off 1st year ) $0
Liabilities
Loans outstanding
G Peterson $2,000
M Mullins $1000
$3000.00
Equity (negative) $1563.20
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