The finalists of the nationwide New World Emerge competition have been announced, highlighting some of the most exciting up-and-coming food and grocery innovators in Aotearoa. 

Designed to uncover the next generation of great Kiwi grocery suppliers, the annual competition is split into two categories:  

◦ Start-up, for those not yet ranged in any supermarket 

◦ Small supplier, for those already locally ranged or in a handful of stores 

The ultimate prize is the chance for suppliers to see their products on shelves in New World stores across the country, along with receiving tailored support from industry experts to help scale up their businesses. 

This year’s competition has attracted an impressive calibre of entries, with entrepreneurs from across the country submitting their most innovative products. After a rigorous semi-final process that included business coaching, financial analysis, and a 60-second pitch video submission, judges from across Foodstuffs North Island and South Island have selected 10 standout finalists: 

Start-up suppliers 

◦ Teeny Teeth: Trio-toothbrush, three-sided brushing for little mouths, based in Auckland 

◦ ButterLuxe: Oaty butter, based in Auckland 

◦ Gut Comfort: Kiwi sorbet, based in Auckland 

◦ NODE: Rapid hydration formula, based in Auckland 

◦ Dirty Donuts: Apple fritter flavour, based in Upper Hutt 

Small suppliers 

◦ Planta: Yerba mate, a carbonated water product based in New Plymouth 

◦ Pierogi Joint: Frozen pierogi, based in Christchurch 

◦ Mag Bag: Magnetic close storage bags, based in Auckland 

◦ HiveEnergy: HiveEnergy gels, based in Mosgiel 

◦ Little Ardroy: Frozen beef bites, based in Christchurch 

Each entry was judged on their potential to scale, the strength of their business plan and financials, the uniqueness of their product offering, and their ability to meet an identified customer need. 

Chris Quin, Managing Director of Foodstuffs New Zealand said: “We have a proud history of supporting small and local suppliers and this year’s entries have been incredibly strong.  We’ve seen a real step up in terms of quality and business readiness. These are entrepreneurs who are ready to grow, and we’re keen to help them take that next step.” 

The competition culminates in a live pitch event on Thursday, 14 August at Foodstuffs Support Centre in Auckland. Finalists will present their products to a panel of judges, including supermarket owner operators, who will sample the products, ask questions, and select the winners in each category. 

The winners will receive a comprehensive support package, with a combined valued at over $120,000, including mentorship from industry experts and exposure across Foodstuffs’ extensive retail network. 

New World Emerge is proudly supported by New World and delivered in partnership with an expert group of industry mentors, including Precision Media, NZ Food Innovation Network, Rise Growth Lab, HOOP, Stickybeak, and Calico. It’s part of Foodstuffs’ broader commitment to backing local suppliers and helping them succeed, ensuring communities thrive as part of its commitment to be Here for NZ. 

For more information visit New World Emerge.