We’re excited to introduce Yifan Li, Head of Group Supply and Infant Nutrition Sales. Yifan plays a critical role in managing both our internal supply to Yili Group and our growing external infant nutrition business. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the industry, he’s driving innovation opportunities with his customers and ensuring Westpro remains a trusted partner in the global market. In this Q&A, Yifan shares insights into his role, what sets us apart, and what excites him most about the future of infant nutrition. 

Let’s start with an introduction.  What is your role and what’s your background?  

I am the Head of Group Supply and Infant Nutritional Sales. Apart from looking after all internal supply from Westland & Oceania Dairy (ODL) to Yili Group in China (including infant powder, adult powder, butter, UHT milk, UHT cream etc), I also manage all external infant sales to the rest of the world. This adds up to a large customer base with a total of 29 specifications, and the number is still growing. 

What does a typical day look like in your role?  

A typical day is always very busy—taking orders, working with the supply chain, talking with the quality team, checking with the finance team, and discussing new opportunities with the R&D team for exciting innovations. It’s a lot of work, but also a lot of fun! 

Can you give us an overview of Westpro’s (produced at ODL) current infant base powder and canning business?  

After five years of developing the external customer market, ODL has become the industry leader in OEM base powder formulations in New Zealand. This strong foundation also provides a strategic advantage for expanding into the canning business. 

What makes us and the Glenavy plant well-suited to manufacture infant nutrition powder?  

We have successfully collaborated with Yili, consistently meeting their high-quality standards to ensure the safety and consistency of our products. 

Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities comply with global food safety and infant formula regulations, while our stringent quality control processes adhere to international standards such as Codex and country-specific food safety requirements. 

With advanced nutritional formulation capabilities, we develop tailored formulations incorporating DHA, probiotics, and hypoallergenic ingredients to meet evolving market demands. 

What are the key benefits to our customers working with us for this?  

We ensure a reliable and secure supply chain, consistently delivering high-quality infant formula powders. 

Our flexible customisation options allow customers to tailor formulations and create differentiated products, all while meeting stringent global regulatory standards for market approval. 

With diverse partnership models, we provide the right solutions - whether customers need base powders or fully finished formulas. 

Thanks to our efficient production capabilities, strong supply chain management, and economies of scale, we offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality, helping our customers stay competitive in the market. 

From your perspective, what sets us apart from other manufacturers in the industry? 

What truly sets us apart from other manufacturers in the industry is our ability to deliver high-quality, customised solutions backed by strong expertise and a proven track record. Our combination of expertise, flexibility, and commitment to quality makes us on track to be a great choice in partner for infant nutrition solutions worldwide. 

Can you share any customer feedback that highlights what they value most about working with us? 

Our external infant business has grown through partnerships with many small customers rather than relying on a single large client. What sets us apart - and what our customers value most - is our commitment to fairness, flexibility, and unwavering support.