“Business is about relationships, and it always has been,” Hobbs states firmly. She highlights their long-standing partnerships with transportation companies, seed suppliers, and suppliers of day-old chickens as examples.“We still use the same seed provider that we used when we imported five seeds from Holland to trial a new product,” Hobbs shares. “We’ve maintained those relationships while also being open to innovations.” Perhaps most notably, the family business has maintained a direct supply relationship with major Australian supermarkets since 1985—a rare feat that speaks to both the consistency of their products and the integrity of their business dealings. HANDS-ON LEADERSHIP With a workforce of around 200 employees across their group of companies, Hobbs credits the familyoriented culture as central to operational excellence. “We’re not top-heavy or steeped in inefficient corporate structures,” she says. “We’re connected. I was on the packing floor today, speaking with staff and gaining an understanding of operations at that level.” That hands-on, humble approach is part of the company’s DNA—passed down from Hobbs’ parents. “My dad is still efficient and hands-on in his field. 65 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 04 INGLEWOOD FARMS
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