DELICIOUS DELI TREATS

Cheeses and deli products are perfect for easy platters, special occasions, and the upcoming festive season.

The Foodstuffs team told FMCG Business: “October marks NZ Cheese Month and the announcement of the NZ Wine Awards, an ideal time to spotlight the evolving world of specialty cheese. Globally, we’re seeing a ‘cheese renaissance’ with consumers embracing bold flavours, artisanal craftsmanship, and cheeses with a story. International varieties like burrata, paneer, and queso quesadilla are gaining popularity, while traditional favourites, such as cheddar and parmesan, remain strong.

“In New Zealand, soft white cheeses like Camembert and Brie continue to lead the deli category, reflecting a preference for creamy, indulgent textures. Semi-soft yellow cheeses also perform well. However, traditional cheeseboards are seeing less engagement, with shoppers shifting toward more functional, snackable formats that suit modern lifestyles. Innovation is thriving. Cheesemakers are blending traditional techniques with new flavour profiles and wellness trends. Sustainability is also a key focus, with local producers like Whitestone, Puhoi Valley, and Barrys Bay leading the way in responsible sourcing and storytelling.

“With cheese and wine in the spotlight this month, there’s a strong opportunity to inspire customers through curated pairings, in-store tastings, and digital content. Specialty cheese is no longer just a trend, it’s a transformation, and New Zealand is playing a central role in its evolution,” says the Foodstuffs team.

We also checked in with the Woolworths NZ team to see what’s trending in their supermarkets. They shared: “With the rising cost of cheese, we are seeing customers look for alternatives to ‘the norm’. Although Block Cheese is still a household staple for many households, instead of buying a large block of cheese, customers are opting for other formats, such as Grated, Sliced and Snacking Cheese. More care and time is taken to carefully plan the household ‘cheese needs’. These cheese formats offer convenience, time saving, portion control, and a dairy snack for the adults and kids seeking a dairy component in their diet.

“Cottage Cheese continues its strong resurgence and is currently growing over 40% vs LY, with the help of social media, and is offering high protein and versatility.

“Deli Cheese sales are achieving some growth despite increasing costs, and subsequent retail increases. Outside the larger segments such as Camembert, Brie, and Blue cheese, we are seeing growth in most of the other segments. The growth in Specialty Cream Cheese is no surprise as it is one of the most affordable cheeses to put on a cheese board and Kiwis love it!”

Goodfood Group – Fresh look and exciting new products driving summer sales

“At Goodfood Group we’re passionate about bringing the world’s finest food products to New Zealanders’ tables,” says the team.

Goodfood Group is the number three manufacturer in Speciality Cheese (Circana, 6 months to 3/8/25), representing trusted brands including Food Snob, Moondarra, Emborg, Coombe Castle, Meredith Dairy, Paramareggio, Applewood, Mexicana, Belton Farms, La Panzanella and now Telegraph Hill, the artisan olive oil and condiments producer.

The Summer and Christmas season is a critical trading window, accounting for a third of annual Deli Cheese sales between December and February. Shoppers are especially receptive to new products during this period, making innovation and strong in-store visibility key to driving trial and basket spend.

Food Snob is arriving on shelf with a fresh new look designed to engage shoppers in-store. The refresh is supported by exciting launches, including Danish White Cheese with Chilli 100g and Garlic & Parsley 100g, both convenient small-format marinated packs that deliver fresh flavour without waste. Food Snob Manchego, a 12-month aged Spanish sheep’s milk cheese, offers nutty complexity with a firm, crumbly texture. Mediterranean Greek-style Cheese 100g provides a single-use pack ideal for salads or platters. Completing the range, Green Olives with Orange & Coriander 120g add a vibrant citrus-spice twist, perfect for entertaining.

“We’re also extending into the growing Cheddar category with Belton Farms’ award-winning English cheeses. Red Fox is a rich aged Red Leicester with a distinctive crunch, while Silver Fox is a premium White Leicester with nutty, creamy depth,” says the team.

“With our expanded portfolio, Goodfood Group delivers variety, quality and innovation to help retailers capture growth this summer.” Head to www.goodfoodgroup.co.nz or email info@goodfoodgroup.co.nz for queries.

Zany Zeus

Zany Zeus is a 100% New Zealand-owned, and locally operated artisan dairy company based in Wellington.

“With over 25 years of experience, we specialise in crafting highquality cheeses and dairy cultures using time-honoured techniques and locally sourced ingredients,” explains the Zany Zeus team.

“We’re passionate about delivering the best possible products and service to customers across the country and beyond.

“From luscious Greek yoghurt to our award-winning cheeses and cultured products, Zany Zeus offers a range of organic and conventional options, all rich in flavour and authenticity. These handcrafted creations have earned numerous accolades at the NZ Champions of Cheese Awards, with our Ricotta and Crème Fraîche recently taking home gold. Once you try our award-winning products, you won’t want to eat anything else.

“Our commitment to quality and innovation continues to set us apart in the artisan dairy industry. Zany Zeus products are highly regarded in restaurants and homes alike, helping Kiwis create wonderful dishes the whole family can enjoy,” says the team.

“Sold throughout New Zealand and now expanding into overseas markets, Zany Zeus remains proudly local – focused on exceptional flavour, expert craftsmanship, and the joy of sharing great food.”

Contact: sales@zanyzeus.co.nz www.zanyzeus.co.nz

43 Seaview Road, Seaview, Lower Hutt 5010