FMG, the New Zealand based member of the International Cooperative and Mutual Insurance Federation (ICMIF) has been announced as the inaugural winner of the Cooperative Business of the Year award in New Zealand.
FMG was announced the winner on Wednesday 10 August during the Cooperative Business New Zealand association (the trade body for cooperatives in New Zealand, also known as NZ Co-op) Annual Cooperative Awards celebration.
The award recognises the cooperative or mutual which has made the most significant and positive impact within the New Zealand cooperative community over the past year.
“Cooperatives return value to their shareholders/members in many different ways – not just the bottom line. FMG leads the way here in New Zealand, no better example being its concern for the well-being of farmers and growers nationwide with its Farmstrong programme. In challenging economic times, Farmstrong is aiming to shift the focus of mental health from illness to wellness,” said NZ Co- Op Chief Executive Craig Presland.
“In addition, in true cooperative spirit, FMG has been fully involved in community investment with such programmes as principal sponsorship of the NZ Young Farmer of the Year, rural crime prevention advice and guidance, and support for farmers and growers by attending, hosting or sponsoring hundreds of rurally focussed events across New Zealand each year,” continued Presland.
FMG was recognised for its outstanding work inside the business which included being named New Zealand’s Best Large Workplace in 2015.
“It was humbling to accept this award on behalf of FMG, particularly given the calibre of the other finalists,” said FMG Chief Executive Chris Black (pictured).
“Receiving this award is a real honour for the mutual and recognises the commitment and good work of everyone who helps achieve the things we do on behalf of members and clients.
“For us, the unique mutual philosophy we are looking to foster is all about ensuring all our stakeholders are successful – our members and clients, employees, industry partners and suppliers and the wider rural community, “said Black.
