EastPack: Financing future growth opportunities

This peer-reviewed case study examines how EastPack, a New Zealand horticultural cooperative, navigated capital constraints and growth pressures during a period of rapid industry expansion.

The case explores strategic decision-making, cooperative financing mechanisms, and the trade-offs faced by member-owned enterprises operating in global markets.

Research at a glance

  • Authors: Garnevska, Sixpence, Rolleston 
  • Year: 2020 
  • Publication: International Food and Agribusiness Management Review 
  • Focus: Cooperative finance, growth strategy, capital constraints 
  • Geographic scope: New Zealand 
  • Format: Peer-reviewed case study (PDF) 

Why this research matters

Access to capital is a recurring challenge for agricultural cooperatives worldwide. This case study provides a detailed New Zealand example of how cooperative structures interact with growth ambitions, industry dynamics, and member expectations.

The paper is frequently used in teaching and research contexts and provides practical insight for cooperative leaders and policymakers interested in capital frameworks that preserve cooperative principles.

Key themes explored

  • Cooperative capital structures

  • Growth and expansion strategies

  • Member ownership and control

  • Financial decision-making in agricultural cooperatives

Read the full paper [pdf]

Read more research

Previous
Previous

Co-operative Interview Series: Ion Technologies

Next
Next

Examining commitment heterogeneity and social capital within the membership base of agricultural cooperatives