$1.5 million Sponsorship a Family Affair
Calvin Kelemete may be only 10 months of age, but he had a wealth of experience to buckle him into his child car seat,
from left: Farmers chief executive, Nick Lowe; Health Minister, Annette King; and Plunket's New Zealand president, Kaye
Crowther.
Farmers, with a network of 76 stores throughout New Zealand, today (subs:14 November) announced it will underwrite
Plunket's car seat safety programmes, which operate nationwide, and also become a Star sponsor of Plunket.
The three-year Farmers sponsorship is worth $1.5million to Plunket and will comprise a cash contribution, advertising,
direct marketing and fundraising support. Farmers is currently developing a range of baby essential clothing. The range
will be launched early next year and royalties from these products will also support Plunket programmes.
Farmers chief executive Nick Lowe said the department store chain was based on the retail needs and requirements of New
Zealand families and welcomed its association with Plunket.
"We are once again 100 percent New Zealand owned and the Norman family is as proud to be supporting New Zealand families
through this partnership as are our 3,500 team members."
Health Minister, Annette King congratulated Plunket and Farmers on their new partnership.
"We, as Plunket babies, have grown up shopping at Farmers initially with our parents and now with our children. It is
wonderful that the health and well being of New Zealand families and children will also benefit from the partnership
developed by Plunket and Farmers," said Annette King.
Plunket president Kaye Crowther added that although Plunket and Farmers had a long association with New Zealand
families, Farmers as a 94 year old department store chain and Plunket as a 97 year old child health organisation, both
organisations had vibrant futures.
"Plunket and Farmers are represented in most town and cities in New Zealand. We both believe that child growth,
development and safety build strong foundations for family life. It's a great fit all round," said Kaye Crowther.