Zeffer sold to Tātau Tātau Commercial

Tātau Tātau Commercial (E Tipu), the commercial arm of Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa, has acquired Hawke’s Bay beverage brand Zeffer as the next step in its apple strategy.

It says the acquisition adds established beverage manufacturing and processing capability to E Tipu’s horticulture business, extending its operations beyond growing and packing premium apples in Wairoa.

Zeffer will continue to operate from its Fernhill site in Hawke’s Bay as a distinct brand, with continuity for its existing team, customers and partners.

Shayne Walker, Heamana (Chairperson) of Tātau Tātau Commercial, says the acquisition is a deliberate step in E Tipu’s apple strategy. “This acquisition activates the next stage of our apple strategy, moving our horticulture business into processing. Zeffer is also a proud Hawke’s Bay brand with a well-earned reputation, a highly experienced team and a genuine longstanding connection to the region.

From left: Shayne Walker, Heamana (Chairperson) of Tātau Tātau Commercial, Pieri Munro, Heamana (Chairperson) of Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa, and Colin Barriff, CEO of Zeffer.

“We grow premium apples in Wairoa, so there is a clear strategic alignment between our horticultural operations and the products Zeffer makes. This acquisition allows us to strengthen that connection across the value chain, from orchard to bottle, and creates real opportunity to add further value to the fruit we grow,” says Walker.

Zeffer CEO Colin Barriff says the acquisition is a positive outcome for the brand. “Zeffer has always been proudly Hawke’s Bay, so we’re pleased the business will remain locally owned. E Tipu’s connection to the region and the apple industry makes it a natural fit for Zeffer, and we believe they are well placed to take the business forward.

“The sale gives Zeffer a strong platform for its next phase while keeping the brand firmly connected to its Hawke’s Bay roots.”