Retail NZ says the Government’s revised Fuel Response Plan provides greater certainty for retailers by ensuring food and freight services would receive priority access to fuel in the event of a severe supply disruption.
The Government this week outlined changes to the National Fuel Plan, including a simplified Phase 4 framework that would prioritise fuel access for critical services, food and freight operators, commercial and community users, and the general public.
Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young says the updated approach reflects feedback from industry.
“Retailers will be breathing a sigh of relief that all food and freight will be considered a priority, behind critical life-supporting services, under the revised plan announced today,” Young says.
“The initial draft plan released for consultation did not take into account the complexities of the retail industry, and just how involved the process is to get goods from the border or producer, to retailers and their customers. We’re pleased the Government has listened to industry and simplified the plan.”
Under the revised framework, fuel prioritisation rules would only apply if New Zealand moved to Phase 4 of the Fuel Response Plan, which the Government says would occur only in the event of a severe and prolonged global fuel shortage.
The four Phase 4 categories would include:
- Critical users, including emergency services, health and schools
- Food and freight operators
- Commercial and community users
- The general public
Young says the changes will help retailers prepare for potential disruptions while maintaining confidence in supply chains.
“This is a big win for retailers, who can now plan with certainty that no matter what happens in the Middle East, the freight services they rely on will be able to get goods to their stores,” she says.
Young also welcomed Government assurances that fuel supply remains stable.
“We are also heartened to hear that fuel supply to the country remains stable, with diesel so crucial for the movement of goods around our country,” she says.
“However, we wanted to remind consumers to continue to just fuel what you need, to ensure our fuel supplies can remain in good health.”
