New Zealand Cooperatives Association Elects New Chairperson

At today’s annual meeting, the New Zealand Cooperatives Association elected former Fonterra Shareholders Council Chairman, Blue Read, as the new Chairperson.

“I am excited about the possibilities the role presents in the upcoming year,” says Mr Read. “With the celebration of the UN International Year of Cooperatives during 2012, it is an opportunity for the Association to create a greater understanding of the strength of the cooperative model for all New Zealanders.”

“Cooperatives operate in all areas of the New Zealand economy. A deeper and more meaningful understanding of the nature of cooperatives will benefit and strengthen the realisation of their position as a powerful economic model.”

“I look forward to the opportunity to work with cooperative leaders and Government over the coming year as they help lead the celebrations for the UN International year of Cooperatives 2012 by developing a deeper understanding of cooperatives for themselves and the people whom they represent.”

Mr Read has a long association with cooperatives and was most recently the Chairman of the Fonterra Shareholders Council. He also chairs the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2012 National Committee.

The NZ Cooperatives Association is charged with promoting the cooperative and mutual business model and encouraging and supporting cooperative and mutual enterprise. The Association acts as the representative body which promotes discussion and cooperation with government, research in support of the cooperative business model, and collects and publishes relevant information relating to cooperatives and mutuals.

“I am confident that by celebrating the International Year of Cooperatives in 2012,” said Mr Read, “many more people will get the opportunity to appreciate what is special and specific about the cooperative business model and its importance to the New Zealand economy.”