COVID-19: Update: Operating at Red Level
All of New Zealand will move to Red under the COVID-19 Protection Framework (traffic light system) from 11.59pm tonight. Due to the operating practices we already have in place, we are well positioned to continue to deliver the capacity our shareholders require and meet customer demand.
Our plants and offices will remain open, with the additional health and safety processes continuing. These include physical distancing, temperature checking and rapid testing, in plant ‘bubbles’, and the use of the COVID tracer app and Vaccine Passes.
Access to plants and offices will be restricted to essential visitors only, and all visitors must be fully vaccinated. For your safety and ours, we ask that farmers do not visit plants at this stage.
Livestock Reps will continue to visit farms in their home regions. In any meetings between farmers and livestock representatives, please observe physical distancing, wear masks and ensure QR codes are displayed on farm.
Processing capacity
We are continuing to increase processing capacity and are in constant contact with supply chain partners so that we understand their capacity and restraints. Whilst there remains disruption in the global supply chain, we are managing this and it’s important we maximise our load and sales to customers.
We continue to encourage farmers to book space as soon as livestock is at an optimal weight to minimise any impact of a rapid spread of Omicron. While we currently have available processing capacity and can manage the flow of stock, if any of our plants or supply chain partners are impacted, we may not be able to process all stock when required.
Preparing for COVID-19 on farm
We remain focused on ensuring the health and wellbeing of our people and meeting the needs of our farmer shareholders and customers. The Omicron situation is developing rapidly. We will continue to monitor and keep you informed if anything changes.
It’s important you have a plan to ensure your farm can continue to operate if you, an employee, or a family member contracts COVID-19. This Beef + Lamb NZ document can help you create a plan in the event you are required to leave your property and are unable to look after your animals, staff and business. The detail contained in your plan is unique to your own property and circumstances to allow family, friends or neighbours to come in and look after your livestock.
Thank you for your continued support.
