Buy NZ Made has launched a campaign challenging New Zealand businesses, manufacturers and producers to ‘make their way
out’ of our current tough times, by finding their niche and seizing the opportunity that Covid-19 has presented.
“Covid-19 has changed the environment in which businesses operate, and as we continue to face uncertainty, now is not
the time for business as usual. With many kiwi businesses doing it tough, embracing big thinking and new ideas is
essential,” says Ryan Jennings, Executive Director of Buy NZ Made.
“It’s a time for our businesses to recognise that weird can be good and embrace what makes them different and what gives
them an edge. Look at what your business does well, consider your unique point of difference, understand what your
customers want, and feel empowered to work with your team to sharpen and adapt this.
“From The New Zealand Sock Company who started making face masks during the lockdown to The Block Dock in Riverton who
figured out a way to keep your soap fresh – I see on an almost daily basis the amazing things that Kiwi makers and
producers can do when they embrace their weird and find their niche.
“This campaign is all about encouraging the next generation of Kiwi business to do the same. Many of them can already be
found at shopkiwi.online, a new home for New Zealand-owned and -operated businesses.”
“We’ve seen through the Budget that the Government is backing SMEs to rebuild the economy. With a focus on
entrepreneurship and e-commerce, it’s a great time to adapt your existing offering, extend your brand beyond its
pre-Covid-19 identity, create a new product or move your business online,” he says.
“The great news is that New Zealanders are ready to support you as you embrace new ideas. We know consumer behaviour has
shifted, and the fact that a business is New Zealand owned, and a product is New Zealand made; are more important than
ever for kiwis when purchasing.”
“Kiwis want to support locally made products, but it’s crucial that they can easily identify them. The iconic NZ Made
Trademark has been displayed proudly on many unique products since 1988 and assures consumers that what they are buying
is truly a NZ Made product.
“In the last week, we’ve seen six months’ worth of applications in a single week, and we want to see more NZ businesses
sign up and make themselves known in this way to their customers.”
You can check if your business is eligible and sign up for the NZ Made Trademark at buynz.org.nz
Jennings says New Zealanders have an important role in our recovery by making conscious purchasing decisions.
“This isn’t about buying more but buying better. We’re encouraging conscious decision-making in choosing products made
here at home, and at the same time, playing a key role in our economic recovery.
“When you’re next buying something, check to see if there’s a New Zealand made alternative for what you need online at Shopkiwi, and look out for the NZ Made logo on products and websites.”