Sign the petition:https://petitions.parliament.nz/1eeb3383-766b-4eeb-25f7-08dbbccfc965

New Zealand is currently facing a cost of living crisis, primarily driven by the skyrocketing prices of food and groceries. The profitability of major grocery retailers continues to rise, while an alarming amount of food goes to waste. This dire situation has prompted the Global Food Consumers Forum to propose the establishment of a Public Cooperative Supermarket, a joint venture between taxpayers, the government, and local councils.

Need for a change

New Zealanders spend a significant portion of their income on groceries, with prices steadily increasing. Food prices, including fruit and vegetable costs, have surged, placing a heavy burden on households. While major supermarkets continue to reap record profits, many low-income individuals rely on food banks for their basic needs.

The Challenge: New Zealanders are grappling with the grim reality of spending a significant portion of their income on groceries. The prices of essential food items, including fruits, vegetables, and everyday groceries, continue to soar. This crisis has a far-reaching impact, stretching the budgets of ordinary households and driving many into financial hardship.

The Current System: Our existing supermarket model is riddled with issues. It lacks the competitive edge needed to keep prices affordable for consumers. Pricing strategies are convoluted, making it challenging for us to make informed choices while shopping. Moreover, the recent COVID-19 pandemic exposed our vulnerability when it comes to food security – we rely heavily on private supermarkets, which don’t always have our best interests at heart.

The Solution: Public Cooperative Supermarket We have a visionary solution – the Public Cooperative Supermarket. It’s a cooperative company that will be owned and controlled by us, the people of New Zealand. The government will have a 50% stake in its capital, and taxpayers like you and me can contribute by purchasing shares. Local councils can also help by providing land for supermarket development. But to make this a reality, we need your voice and your support.

Petition request

That the House of Representatives urge the Government to create a new public retail supermarket chain, a cooperative company with a distribution and logistics chain, as a joint venture between the Government and members of the public.

Petition reason

We want to control food and grocery prices. We strongly believe the Government should have control over both food safety and food security of the country. We want to ensure a robust public food distribution system is established and provides access to safe and suitable food at affordable prices. There are news reports that private supermarket profits continue to rise while Kiwis battle higher costs of living. I believe a public supermarket is essential

Why Sign the Petition? By signing this petition, you’re saying YES to:

1. Affordable Food: You’re advocating for a cooperative that actively controls market prices with government subsidies, ensuring essential food items remain affordable for all.
2. Support for Local Producers: You’re endorsing the promotion of locally produced goods, supporting our farmers, and embracing a circular economy for a sustainable future.
3. Reducing Food Waste: You’re taking a stand against food wastage by encouraging active competition among retailers, thereby reducing the amount of food that goes to waste.
4. Government Assistance: You’re advocating for the government to step in and subsidize food products to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to affordable, nutritious food.
5. A Brighter Future: You’re helping pave the way for a robust public distribution system, reducing our dependence on private supermarkets and offering us lower prices.
6. Securing Our Food Supply: You’re supporting investments in overseas food companies to ensure a stable food supply, even in times of crisis.
7. Innovation and Quality: You’re endorsing the adoption of innovative technology to reduce operational costs and provide high-quality, safe food.

Conclusion:

Our call for a Public Cooperative Supermarket is about taking control of our food security and affordability. It’s about securing a better future for ourselves and generations to come. By signing this petition, you’re adding your voice to a movement that aims to reshape our food industry, putting our needs and interests first.