Fine Food New Zealand expo a major drawcard for international exhibitors

A strong international flavour is guaranteed at the upcoming Fine Food New Zealand expo, with multiple companies from across the world readying to display their wares at the premier hospitality, food service and food retail event of the year.

Taking place at the ASB Showgrounds, Auckland on 24-26 June, Fine Food New Zealand brings together the finest in food, beverage, equipment, packaging and much more. Event Manager Lorraine Smith points to substantial growth in exhibitor numbers – up to more than 330 from the previous edition’s 280 – with many more international companies coming on board. “In 2016 we had 27, for the 2018 show we are already at more than 40 and there is plenty of interest from many more,” she reveals.

Smith says organisations from Australia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the USA, the UK, the Pacific Islands and Japan will add to zest, excitement and variety to the event. “There’s growing recognition from food, beverage and food service organisations that this is the place to reach the New Zealand hospitality and related industries.” 

Among the companies exhibiting are the Dallas Group, Amoy Canning Corporation, Niue Vanilla, Ariki Spirits, the US Meat Export Federation and Pacific Island Trade and Invest. Their reasons for being at Fine Food New Zealand are diverse, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the business to be conducted at the 10,000 square metres of exhibition space. 

USA-headquartered Dallas Corporation manufactures edible oil recovery solutions. Geoffrey Meade, APAC director of sales, says the company is returning to the show to demonstrate products that improve sustainability and reduce operational costs. “Being the largest industry event in New Zealand, Fine Food New Zealand offers us a gateway to multiple levels and market segments in the hospitality and food manufacturing sector of potential customers. The opportunity to demonstrate our products face to face and connect with customers is gold.” 

Dallas Corporation’s team of qualified chefs will demonstrate a filtration and treatment process that greatly extends the life of cooking oil. 

Senior VP of Singapore’s Amoy Canning Corporation Darius Huang says the company is on an Australasian expansion drive for its range of Asian cooking pastes, sauces, chilli condiments and drinks. “We’ll be at the show looking to set up a distribution channel to import our products into New Zealand.”

Boutique spirits are capturing the imagination of the public and connoisseurs will be pleased to enjoy the opportunity to sample Ariki Spirits’ Polynesian gin and vodka again at Top Shelf. Director Tania Honoré shares what it has in store for Fine Food New Zealand delegates: “Gin is riding a wave of popularity and we want people to experience our Ariki ultra-premium spirits which showcase the unique flavours of New Zealand and Polynesia.”

She adds that Ariki enjoys the atmosphere and access to the many trade customers nationwide. “Fine Food New Zealand is the ideal opportunity to present our product and brand to such an important market.” 

Among the exports of Pacific island Niue is its locally produced vanilla products, including NIUE Vanilla Organic and NIUE Vanilla Vodka. Therefore, it is returning to Fine Food New Zealand 2018: “The 2016 Fine Food New Zealand show was absolutely amazing. We’re looking forward to further building our brand and awareness, making sales and getting new customers raving about our NIUE Vanilla Products,” enthuses Stanley Kalauni, Director. 

The US Meat Export Federation’s Sabrina Yin has long appeared at Fine Food New Zealand exhibitions. “This year, we’ll be showcasing a variety of US pork brands. Come and try!” she says. “US Pork is premium, consistent in quality and supplied with the backing of the stringent USDA inspection system for wholesomeness and food safety.”

Multiple Malaysian companies are joining the show, some of which are returning, others that are appearing for the first time. The New Zealand market is important to these organisations, confirms Bhavani Foods’ Rathinasabarathy Sachithanantham. “We’re looking to explore, launch new products and establish distributorships,” he relates.

RBNG offers more than 40 types of Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN) products including functional food, health supplements, skin care, and lifestyle products.  The company’s Mr Tan says it is the first time appearing in New Zealand, thanks to the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers. “We’re looking to enter this market through value-added EBN products by introducing them into the populace through reputable names." 

Fine Food New Zealand is set to be a bonanza for local and international brands as a diverse arena where multiple opportunities for trade and commerce will present themselves.

Fine Food New Zealand’s Smith notes: “'The strong relationships with our International agents ensures we have many more companies taking note of the valuable New Zealand market and to experience our famous Kiwi hospitality. We are excited about all the innovative International products to be showcased at the show from countries around the world. It’s free for trade delegates – and it’s not to be missed.”