Plenty Foods opened today in Brewtown with the goal of offering locals an alternative to the supermarket duopoly operated by Foodstuffs and Woolworths. Owner Henry Hutcheon who also runs Supersave in Naenae says they faced technical difficulties on opening, but remains committed to affordable prices and community support. He says he would employ 40 staff to work at the store, mostly hiring from the local community, and aims to work with closely with community groups to help keep essentials affordable.

Hutcheon began his career in the supermarket business in 2007 and acknowledges the challenges of sourcing for suppliers, especially the larger ones. The supermarket offers a full range of offerings including produce, meats, fish, a bakery, hot food, and a cafe, as well as featuring local products like a pie developed with CJ’s Hangi.

Mayor Peri Zee praised the store’s support for local producers and it’s role in boosting the competition, saying it could help lower prices and boost the local economy.

Source: Radio New Zealand

07/11/25