John Key launches Auckland South Business Lunch Series

John Key launches Auckland South Business Lunch Series

Prime Minister John Key stressed the importance of export markets in strengthening the national economy at an inaugural event in south Auckland this afternoon.

Speaking to more than 380 business people at the Auckland South Business Lunch Series in Manukau, John Key emphasised that while the New Zealand economy has a lot of potential, it is through businesses integration into the global export market that will lead to growth.

Organised by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED), and sponsored by Manukau Institute of Technology, the lunch was the first in an on-going series for local businesses.

ATEED chief executive, Grant Jenkins presented the Prime Minister with a gift package of food and beverage products produced by local businesses, some of which are already exporting, or planning to target new markets in the future.

“Supporting businesses that are currently or planning to export, is a key area of ATEED focus,” commented Mr Jenkins. “Our dedicated sector and business development team, including our local offices in south, west and north Auckland work closely with businesses stepping into the world arena.”

The Prime Minister’s gift package featured samples from companies that are aiming to export and will test new product ideas at ATEED’s new food innovation centre, The FoodBowl.

Opened in October 2011, the FoodBowl is a hi-tech food testing facility proving companies the opportunity to trial new products, before having to heavily invest resources and finances into a new line.

With a further two events planned for 2012, the Auckland South Business Series will feature high-profile business presenters and be hosted throughout South Auckland.

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