6 September 2002
Congratulations Eric Watson for Achieving Kiwi Dream?
Eric Watson heads to London with the full blessing, if not congratulations, of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce - and a
message!
“Exporting successful business entrepreneurs is a logical extension of the Kiwi and Auckland business dream to be
successful international traders.”
Michael Barnett, chief executive of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, said the bottom line of the global success of
Auckland entrepreneurs is a feather in the cap for the Auckland business environment.
“What Eric Watson confirms is that any Aucklander with a business idea, prepared to put in the work, can turn their
local success into global success.”
“We need more successful business people establishing themselves in international business capitals, and spreading the
word that Auckland is more than just the home of the America’s Cup - it is also a training ground for top business
entrepreneurs.”
Mr Barnett said he hoped Eric Watson’s example would motivate other Auckland business entrepreneurs not to be content to
limit their business activities just to New Zealand and Australia - but to look at the global market as the opportunity
and set their growth paths accordingly.
“I agree that we need more international investors establishing productive business ventures in Auckland. However it is
worth noting that there is a counter trade in entrepreneurs. Many Asians and Americans are establishing property-based
enterprises here, which unquestionably do have employment and other down-stream business benefits to New Zealand
consumers and job seekers.”
Every global success of Kiwi business is a feather in the cap for business here. Let’s encourage Mr Watson to do well in
Europe and network that success back here to Auckland’s advantage!
Ends