Beekeepers who have stuck with Paengaroa based company Comvita while it established as the world's premier manuka honey supplier on global markets are being rewarded with company shareholdings.

'These shares will be used as part of a value-add bonus scheme to reward our most loyal beekeeper suppliers who have contributed to the continued growth of Comvita,” says Comvita chairman Neil Craig.

'Shares provide a way for suppliers to participate in the value-add that Comvita has been able to achieve by selling premium branded products in local and overseas markets”

Global natural health and beauty products company Comvita acquired 177,354 ordinary shares on market at an average price of $3.24 and has now completed the issue of these shares to its most loyal beekeeper suppliers.

The more than half million dollar cost of the buyback was provided for in Comvita's 2012 financial result.

'We hope beekeepers will retain their shares for the longer term, and participate in the ongoing dividend streams,” says Neil.

The first of these dividends, at 10 cents per share fully imputed, will be paid on the June 29, 2012.

'Suppliers who contract their future crops to Comvita allow us to make commitments to our customers with confidence that our supply is secure. This in turn provides certainty for our planning and forecasting processes.”

Neil says Comvita directors and management reiterate their gratitude to loyal beekeepers for supporting Comvita in maintaining their position as the global category leader in Manuka honey based products.