Kilmarnock Enterprises Release Regarding the Poppies

The Board, management and staff of Kilmarnock Enterprises Ltd wish to thank all those organisations and individuals that sent messages of support directly and indirectly to us from throughout NZ and overseas, over the loss of the NZRSA poppy manufacturing contract. This support and understanding of our organisation is very much appreciated.

NZRSA made a commercial decision to award its contract to an overseas company which has understandably created major dissatisfaction in the community.

Kilmarnock Enterprises Ltd together with the Christchurch RSA has a long standing working relationship for over 30 years making the poppies which is why we submitted a joint tender for this contract. This is a very good example of two Charities working together for a cause that the very people that these poppies celebrate will have fought for. The work for Kilmarnock was regular and suited the skills of our workforce. It is creating significant income and a high level of job satisfaction. As reported, employees working on this contract have expressed their disappointment at the loss of the poppies because of its uniqueness. Employees could see the results of their work being worn by so many people especially dignitaries and this made them very proud.

Kilmarnock Enterprises Ltd is a Business Enterprise with charitable status employing people with intellectual disabilities and is subject to the commercial market for obtaining light industrial work and the sale of its traditional hand made toys from its shop on Riccarton Road. Our staff work 37 and a half hours per week in accordance with NZ employment laws which is a great achievement by them.

Management of Kilmarnock now has an additional significant challenge to make up the shortfall in funds by obtaining new business to fit the skills of our employees. Nothing will be as ‘special’ as the poppies.

Obtaining suitable contracts for Kilmarnock is ongoing, like any other business, therefore the loss of this long standing work will impact upon Kilmarnock in many ways. The expressions of support are very much valued at a time like this.

ENDS

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