HSY AUTOPARTS VOLUME 7, ISSUE 02 | FEB 2025 LEADING THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET Also in this issue KUMEU RIVER WINES PETER TIPPNER, GENERAL MANAGER
WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM Email for all inquiries: info@businessviewmagazine.com 2422 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 820 Sanibel FL, 33957 239.220.5554 CONTACT US TITLE SPONSORS GREAT NEWS! Business View Publishing was named to the 2020 Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies! Read the press release Editor in Chief Karen Surca Research Directors Mike Luchetta Dylan Tenbrink Contributing Writers Dan Macharia Veronica Enair Director of Production Jared Ali Director of Marketing Nora Saliken Director of Administration Michelle Siewah Digital Strategist Jon Bartlow Art Director Renée Yearwood Managing Director Alexander Wynne-Jones COO Matthew Mitchell Executive Publisher / CEO Marcus VandenBrink 1 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
EDITOR’S NOTES Valentines is on the horizon this month and many are set to celebrate their loved ones. With economic indicators favorable across many Australian and New Zealand business sectors, many locally-based companies, organizations and municipalities are celebrating expansion, positive numbers and success as February unfolds. We are still quite early into the first quarter of 2025 and we can already see some of the plans and business objectives starting to bear fruit for many organizations and thriving businesses across the beautiful Oceania region. Businesses in the region are well positioned to see growth. As always, we have been privileged to cover some of these exciting economic developments for our February issue dissecting what lies next for these organizations. Our editorial team always consider it a privilege to cover exciting developments across all business sectors in the region and we enjoy bringing leading sector-focused features that engage and inform our valued business readership. February’s issue leads you on a journey into the workings of Kumeau River Wines, a thriving business that is dedicated to bringing quality products and a taste of excellence. In this month’s issue we also interviewed hsy Autoparts. With continued business growth and impressive plans as well as the experience to back it up, this company is driving head on into 2025. With all our profiles we hope that our valued business leaders learn a little something new about their relevant business sector as well as key developments in other industry sectors that may help drive their business model forward. As we continue to bring you features covering the very best in business developments across the Oceania region, we hope that you have a chance to unwind and enjoy the start of a new year. Karen Surca Editor in Chief Dear Readers, 2 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 11 HSY AUTOPARTS Leading the Automotive Aftermarket COVER HSY AUTOPARTS 2 EDITOR’S NOTES 5 OPENING LINES AUTOMOTIVE HSY AUTOPARTS 11 3 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
23 23 KUMEU RIVER WINES Vine to Glass: Crafting World-Class Chardonnay FOOD AND BEVERAGE The articles in this publication are for information purposes only. Business View Publishing assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed, or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual or organization has been provided by such individual or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is that of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Business View Publishing. KUMEU RIVER WINES 4 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
RBA FEBRUARY 2025 RATE CUT: BANKS YET TO PASS ON CUTS Source: https://www.realestate.com.au/, Tim McIntyre, First Published Feb 21st, 2025 The big four banks were quick to act following the RBA’s first rate cut in more than four years, but what about the borrowers not with the big four? A new analysis by Finder has found up to two-thirds of Australian lenders have yet to announce plans to drop their rates. The 25-basis-point reduction to the official cash rate announced on Tuesday, brought it down to 4.10 per cent from 4.35 per cent. It was the first rate cut since 2020 and follows 13 consecutive hikes that pushed rates to their highest level since 2011. Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, NAB and Westpac quickly announced they would implement the full 25-point reduction. Collectively, the big four hold $1.546 trillion in owneroccupied mortgages – or nearly 72 per cent of the market – according to Finder’s analysis of Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) data. Australian mortgage holders could save $103 a month if the rate cut is passed on in full by their lender, based on the average home loan of $641,416. Opening Lines 5 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
will be passing on the full rate cut,” he said. “The reality is you can likely save more than a couple rate cuts by switching to a better deal. “A reduction of even half a per cent can be the difference of thousands of dollars a year. “Shop around to find a variable home loan that offers a lower interest rate than your current provider. The very lowest rates now have a ‘5’ in front of them.” Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, said Aussie homeowners have a right to be upset if their lender isn’t announcing a cut. “Every extra day without a cut leaves many Aussie homeowners with tighter budgets,” he said. “If your bank isn’t looking out for you when all eyes are on an RBA cut, when will it?” Cooke said refinancing is the best way to save on your mortgage costs. “Social media was full of Aussies celebrating their bank announcing a 25-point cut on Tuesday – and it was refreshing to see some lenders announce they 6 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
OPENING LINES QUEENSLAND’S STAMP DUTY SHAKEUP: FIRST-HOME BUYERS HANDED TAX RELIEF Source: https://www.realestate.com.au/, Juliet Helmke, First Published Feb 21st, 2025 Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, who took up the role after an upset election at the end of 2024, has axed a big tax for the state in an effort to help first-home buyers while also hoping to boost the construction of new homes. Mr Crisafulli announced that the state would axe stamp duty for all first-home buyers purchasing new builds in the state. The reform, which is set to be implemented from 1 May, 2025, is expected to save Queensland first-time buyers an average of $9,096 on a median-priced house-and-land package. First-home buyers in Queensland are already eligible for a stamp duty waiver when purchasing a property under the value of $700,000, and a concessional rate for homes valued up to $800,000. A vacant land concession has also been available in the state on residential lots valued up to $500,000 for eligible first home buyers. Under the changes, first home buyers who enter 7 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
into a contract to purchase a new home to live in or vacant land on which to build a home will be able to apply for a full transfer duty concession, reducing the duty to nil. Modelling from the state estimates that this change could deliver an additional 800 new homes thanks to increased demand in the sector. The move comes after the Queensland government said it would change the rules related to its stamp duty concession to allow first-home buyers to immediately sublet rooms in the home, as long as the purchaser also occupies the property. Previously, the buyer was barred from renting out part of the property for a period of 12 months from taking occupancy. Queensland treasurer and minister for home ownership David Janetzki said he expected these changes to impact “thousands of young people who want to enter the housing market”. Moreover, Antonia Mercorella, CEO of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland, called the policy shifts “sensible” and commended the government for “[lowering] the upfront financial hurdles to home ownership”. 8 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
HSY AUTOPARTS LEADING THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET automotive 9 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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LEADING THE A AFTERMARKET hsy Autoparts AT A GLANCE hsy Autoparts WHAT: A n Australian importer and distributor of new automotive parts for European vehicles, serving independent workshops with OEM, genuine, and aftermarket components. WHERE: O perating in 15 branches across Australia, including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra. WEBSITE: www.hsy.com.au 11 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
AUTOMOTIVE T For over 60 years, hsy Autoparts has been a key player in Australia’s automotive aftermarket, specializing in European car parts. As a privately owned company, hsy has built its reputation on quality, service, and a forward-thinking approach to business. General Manager Peter Tippner, who joined the company three years ago, brings a fresh perspective shaped by his background in aviation and engineering. “We are an Australian-owned company that operates in the automotive aftermarket space,” Tippner says. “We import SUCCESS DRIVEN BY QUALITY, SERVICE AND LOOKING DOWN THE ROAD AHEAD 12 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
and distribute European car parts exclusively to independent workshops across Australia. We focus on genuine and OEM parts—components originally manufactured for the car without the manufacturer’s stamp. We aim to provide high-quality, reliable parts that ensure independent workshops have everything they need to service European vehicles efficiently.” With 15 locations across Australia’s major cities and approximately 120 employees, hsy has steadily expanded its reach.The company’s ability to remain privately owned while continuously growing highlights its resilience and adaptability in an evolving industry. INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURIAL GROWTH hsy’s origins are firmly grounded in European heritage. “The company was established 61 years ago by German immigrants who relocated to Australia,” Tippner shares. “Around 20 years ago, ownership shifted when two long-time employees took over following the original founders’ passing. Coming from outside the automotive industry, these entrepreneurs brought a fresh perspective, challenging traditional practices and redefining the role of a parts distributor. That spirit of innovation and willingness to question convention continues to shape our approach to business today.” The leadership’s outside-the-box thinking has influenced hiring strategies as well. “Being outside the industry has allowed me to challenge established practices and rethink our operations.That approach has helped us stand apart from our competitors.” CUSTOMER-CENTRIC GROWTH AND MARKET ADAPTATION One of hsy’s key differentiators is its commitment to customer partnerships. Unlike retailers selling discretionary items, hsy operates in a market driven by necessity. “Nobody wakes up excited to buy a new alternator or radiator,” Tippner notes. “People come to us because they need those parts to keep their vehicles running. That’s why we emphasize making the purchasing process simple, accurate, and efficient.” With the rise of European car ownership in 13 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 hsy Autoparts
Australia—particularly after the decline of domestic manufacturing—hsy has adapted to meet growing demand.“When I was a child,European cars were rare. Now, you see Volkswagen Golfs, BMWs, and Mercedes vehicles everywhere,” Tippner says. “The market for European car parts has expanded significantly, and we’re growing alongside it.” This shift has been driven in part by affordability. In the 1990s, luxury European cars were far less accessible to the average Australian. Today, the price point for brands like Mercedes has become much more competitive, offering Australian drivers a wider range of options. hsy has expanded its reach as demand surges, placing branches as close to customers as possible to ensure efficient last-mile delivery across major capital cities and along the Eastern Seaboard. DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION As the industry evolves, so too does hsy’s approach to technology. The company has significantly invested in digital infrastructure to improve efficiency and customer experience. “We were early adopters in transitioning to a fully digital and paperless ordering system,”Tippner explains.“Years ago, most sales were done over the phone. Now, we’ve moved towards a seamless online ordering experience.” To ensure hsy remains in tune with customer needs, the company has established a Steering Committee composed of leading independent European workshops.“We meet with them quarterly to discuss business plans and get direct feedback on how we can improve. That dialogue helps us refine our strategies and investments to benefit our customers directly.” The commitment to digital innovation extends to hsy’s logistics and inventory management. A recent warehouse management system upgrade introduced digital scanners, eliminating paper-based processes and improving order accuracy.“This has significantly reduced our error rate and ensures that customers receive the right part quickly and efficiently.” SUSTAINABILITY AS A STRATEGIC PILLAR Sustainability has become an increasingly important focus for hsy. The company has introduced several 14 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
initiatives to minimize its environmental footprint. “One of the first big steps was eliminating paper in our warehouses and finance teams.That move alone saved over 445,000 A4 pages from being printed.” Another initiative involved transitioning to reusable water bottles and installing filtered water stations at all locations.“This has saved over 10,500 single-use plastic water bottles from landfills since we started the program,” Tippner adds. In addition, hsy has installed solar panels at its central warehouse in Melbourne and several branch locations, reducing the company’s reliance on non-renewable energy. Cardboard and soft plastic recycling programs have also been implemented across all sites. “Our sustainability efforts are not just about being environmentally responsible—they also help us attract and retain top talent who want to work for a company that cares about its impact.” BUILDING A PEOPLE-FIRST CULTURE At the heart of hsy’s success is its people.“Our motto is ‘People are our most important part.’ It’s a play on words, given that we’re a parts distributor, but it truly reflects our philosophy,” Tippner says. The company fosters a supportive work environment through initiatives that prioritize employee wellbeing and professional growth. “We provide our teams with stocked kitchens for daily lunches, we buy our employees lunch every Friday, and we encourage team-building activities. But beyond that, we invest heavily in personal and professional development. Every year, we allocate a budget to send employees to training programs that help them grow professionally and personally.” Decentralized decision-making is another pillar of hsy’s culture. “With 15 locations across the country, we empower our teams at the branch level to make decisions. We support them from head office, but we 15 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 hsy Autoparts
SYSTEMS DESIGNED FOR AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS GROWTH Fenwick stands as one of Australia’s largest and most experienced implementers of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Offering tailored enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions to medium and large businesses since 1976, Fenwick have been trusted to deliver IT solutions that help organisations modernise operations, optimise financial management, and enhance business processes. Fenwick’s expertise spans a diverse range of industries including manufacturing, import and logistics, food services, waste management, non-profits, and pharmaceuticals. Fenwick Apps, formerly known as Fenwick Gold, is a suite of Business Central apps available to Fenwick Clients and purchased through an international partner network. Enhancing Business Centrals functionality beyond standard features, Fenwick Apps allow businesses to customise their ERP system to unique requirements. These tailored solutions address specific industry needs, improving efficiency and streamlining processes. Whether refining financial management or optimising operational workflows, Fenwick Apps empowers organisations across Australia and internationally to maximise the full value of their Business Central investment. With offices in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, Fenwick’s local team works closely with clients to design bespoke solutions that meet their specific needs. If you’re upgrading from a legacy system, switching partner, or implementing a new business solution, Fenwick is dedicated to helping your business evolve and reach its full potential.
trust them to manage operations in a way that best serves their local customers.” GROWTH, ADAPTATION, AND INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP Looking ahead, hsy has ambitious goals for the next decade. “We want to continue being the leading supplier of European car parts in Australia, but we’re also looking at geographical expansion. As the European car market grows, we’re identifying new regions where we can set up branches to be closer to our customers.” In addition to expansion, hsy is preparing for the rise of electric vehicles (EVs).“The automotive landscape is changing, and we must be ready. While internal combustion engines still dominate, EV adoption is increasing. We are actively researching how this shift will impact our industry and what parts and services we must provide in the future.” A key part of hsy’s future strategy is maintaining its position as an employer of choice. “We want to be recognized as a great place to work. Investing in our people and creating a positive workplace culture will 17 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 hsy Autoparts
always be a priority.” STRENGTHENING SUPPLIER AND CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS Building strong partnerships with suppliers and customers is a key focus for hsy. “We see ourselves as the bridge between global suppliers and local workshops,” Tippner explains. “Beyond providing parts, we prioritize education and training, hosting multiple training nights each year to keep our customers informed about the latest advancements in automotive technology.” One of hsy’s standout initiatives is The EVOLVE Auto Festival, an annual trade show and training event. “It’s more than just a trade show—it’s an experience,” says Tippner.“We create an interactive environment where suppliers and customers connect, combining hands-on training with a festival-like atmosphere, complete with food, entertainment, and networking opportunities.The goal is to foster collaboration and drive industry growth.” Key suppliers supporting hsy’s efforts include ATE (brakes), ZF (gearboxes), MAHLE (filtration), Liqui 18 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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Moly (oils), Bosch, and Schaeffler, among others. These industry-leading brands provide the essential components that allow hsy to maintain the high standard of quality that customers expect. “These partnerships are vital to our success,”Tippner explains. “Our suppliers trust us to represent their brands in the Australian market, and we take that responsibility seriously. Beyond simply distributing their products, we collaborate closely to ensure our customers receive the latest technical knowledge and best-in-class support. We help workshops effectively understand and utilize these premium products through training programs, workshops, and direct engagement.” BUILT FOR THE FUTURE As the automotive industry continues to evolve, hsy remains at the forefront, ready to adapt, grow, and lead.The company’s success goes beyond distributing parts—it’s about building strong relationships, empowering independent workshops, and enhancing efficiency through digital transformation and sustainability initiatives. “We’re not just selling parts—we’re building relationships, supporting businesses, and driving the future of the European automotive aftermarket in Australia,”Tippner says.“That’s what sets us apart.” PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Fenwick www.fenwick.com.au Fenwick is one of Australia’s largest and leading implementers of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Since 1976 they’ve provided tailored ERP solutions to businesses, helping organisations enhance operations, optimise financial management, and improve business processes. Fenwick’s expertise spans a diverse range of industries including manufacturing, logistics, food services, non-profits, and pharmaceuticals. 20 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
KUMEU RIVER WINES VINE TO GLASS: CRAFTING WORLD-CLASS CHARDONNAY food & beverage 21 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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KUMEU RIVER WINES FAMILY VALUES AND EXPERT EXPERIENCE EQUAL WORLDCLASS CHARDONNAY AT A GLANCE KUMEU RIVER WINES WHAT: A family-owned winery recognized for producing world-class Chardonnay WHERE: Kumeu, New Zealand WEBSITE: www.kumeuriver.co.nz VINE TO GLASS WORLD-CLASS 23 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
Kumeu River Wines, a name synonymous with world-class Chardonnay, is more than just a winery—it’s a testament to the Brajkovich family’s deep dedication to their craft and community. Located in the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand, Kumeu River Wines has built a reputation that extends far beyond its vineyard. With a legacy spanning nearly eight decades, the winery has established itself as a premier producer of fine wines, earning the respect of critics and enthusiasts alike. The Brajkovich family’s S: CRAFTING S CHARDONNAY 24 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability has solidified Kumeu River as a leader in the industry. Kumeu River blends time-honored winemaking traditions with a progressive approach, ensuring each bottle reflects heritage and innovation. With careful vineyard management and hand-harvesting techniques, the winery maintains an uncompromising commitment to quality. While staying true to its roots, Kumeu River has adapted to an evolving global market, refining its craft to meet modern tastes without losing sight of its origins. KUMEU RIVER ORIGINS The story of Kumeu River Wines began when Maté Brajkovich and his parents purchased a vineyard in Kumeu, just outside Auckland.“The property already had an established vineyard,” says Paul Brajkovich, Director of Marketing.“But to pay off the mortgage, my father and his family had to grow mixed crops like pumpkins and strawberries, and they even had cattle.” Maté also worked at a local winery, Soljans, where he developed a deep passion for winemaking. “He would bicycle to work at the start of the week, stay with the Soljans family, and immerse himself in the craft,” Brajkovich explains. “That’s where he realized he could do it himself.” In 1948, Maté built the winery’s first cellar, which housed production, storage, and sales. “Those four walls that he built back then are still part of the winery today,” says Brajkovich.“He was a gregarious man who built a loyal customer base, and soon people from Auckland drove out to buy wine directly from him.” Over the decades, the winery evolved. Initially known as Brajkovich Wines and later as San Marino Vineyards, it was Michael Brajkovich, Maté’s eldest son, who rebranded it as Kumeu River in the early 1980s to better reflect the winery’s identity and terroir.“Kumeu is the place, and the river runs behind the property,” Brajkovich explains. It made sense to tie our name to the land. A FAMILY-RUN ENTERPRISE Today, Kumeu River remains a family-run business. Michael, a trained oenologist and New Zealand’s first Master of Wine, oversees winemaking. Milan, 25 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 KUMEU RIVER WINES
originally an engineer, manages viticulture and vineyard operations. Paul, with a background in commerce, leads marketing and sales, while their sister, Marijana, who joined 18 years ago after a career in the hotel industry, handles finance and marketing. “It’s rare to have all four siblings return to the business,” Brajkovich says. “We each found our way back, bringing different skill sets that have helped the winery evolve.” The next generation is also beginning to step in. “My sister’s son, Scott, has completed vintages in Burgundy and Sancerre,”says Brajkovich.“He’s keen on production, and we expect to see more involvement from the next generation in the coming years.” CHARDONNAY EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION Kumeu River Wines has built its reputation on producing world-class Chardonnay, often drawing comparisons to the finest white Burgundies.“When Michael returned from France in the early‘80s,we were making several varietals—Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Franc—but the Chardonnay consistently stood out,” says Brajkovich. “It made sense to focus on what we did best.” With its elegance, minerality, and depth of flavor, the Chardonnay quickly gained recognition in international markets, particularly in the UK and US, where it rivaled top-tier Burgundian wines at a more accessible price point. The flagship Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay, first released in 1985, remains the benchmark for the winery. Over the decades, the portfolio has expanded to include several single-vineyard Chardonnays, each showcasing distinct terroir-driven characteristics. Maté’s Vineyard, introduced in 1994, holds special significance. “It’s on the original site my father bought in 1944,” Brajkovich explains. “Initially, we assumed it would contribute to our Kumeu River Chardonnay blend, but when we vinified the wine, we realized it had a unique identity. That’s when we decided to release it as a single-vineyard bottling in his honor.” The wine has since become the most sought-after in the Kumeu River lineup. 26 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
EXPANDING THE PORTFOLIO Following Maté’s Vineyard’s success, the winery introduced two additional single-vineyard Chardonnays in 2006—Hunting Hill and Coddington. Hunting Hill, situated just above Maté’s Vineyard, produces a more floral, mineral-driven Chardonnay with notes of lemon and lime blossom. In contrast, Coddington offers a more decadent, opulent style, with a weighty texture balanced by fine acidity.These additions further cemented Kumeu River’s position as a global leader in cool-climate Chardonnay. Beyond refining its winemaking approach, the winery has embraced innovation. “We were one of the first in New Zealand to switch to screw caps in 2001,” Brajkovich notes. “It was controversial at the time, 27 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 KUMEU RIVER WINES
but we believed in it, and now it’s widely accepted as the best closure for preserving quality.” HAWKE’S BAY AND BEYOND In response to increasing urban development pressures near Kumeu, the winery expanded to a new vineyard site in Hawke’s Bay.“Buying more vineyards in this area became nearly impossible, so we looked elsewhere,” says Brajkovich. “In 2017, we acquired Rays Road, allowing us to explore Chardonnay further and introduce Pinot Noir.” While Kumeu remains the heart of their operations, the winery’s expansion into Hawke’s Bay in 2017 brought new opportunities.“This site is on limestone, making it perfect for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir,” Brajkovich explains.“We’ve been gradually replacing the original Sauvignon Blanc plantings with Chardonnay, a process that will take another six years.” Additionally, the winery has ventured into sparkling wine production. “We started making bottlefermented sparkling wine in 2012—our Kumeu Cremant, Cremant Rosé, and Blanc de Blanc,” says Brajkovich.“These are small productions but gaining traction in markets like the UK and Spain.” GLOBAL RECOGNITION Kumeu River Wines now exports 70% of its production to over 23 countries, with strong UK and 28 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
US markets.“One of our UK importers used to serve our Chardonnay blind at tastings,” Brajkovich recalls. “People would assume it was Premier Cru Burgundy from a top producer. They were shocked to learn it was from New Zealand.” The winery has earned international recognition, with numerous awards highlighting its excellence. “Michael was recently awarded the Institute of Masters of Wine Winemakers’ Winemaker of the Year, which is a huge honor,” Brajkovich says. “Our wines consistently receive top ratings from leading critics, reinforcing our reputation on the global stage.” Kumeu River’s export success began in 1988 at the London Wine Trade Fair, where the family secured key international partnerships. “That was our first foray into exports,” Brajkovich explains.“We had just appointed our UK importer, Boxford Wine Company, and at that same event, we met our US importers, 29 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 KUMEU RIVER WINES
Wilson Daniels Limited, who we’re still with today.” CELEBRATING 80 YEARS As Kumeu River approaches its 80th anniversary, the focus remains on refining its craft while embracing new opportunities.“We don’t chase trends,”Brajkovich emphasizes.“We stay true to our philosophy—making wines of integrity that reflect our land.” One of the most significant developments on the horizon is the continued transformation of the Rays Road vineyard. “We see an opportunity to establish new single-vineyard expressions,” says Brajkovich. “There are still pockets within the site that we believe have even more to offer regarding unique character and expression.” Over the next six years, the winery will complete its transition from Sauvignon Blanc to Chardonnay, unlocking the full potential of the limestone-rich terroir. Additionally, Pinot Noir, which has remained relatively small in Kumeu River’s 30 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Albatrans www.albatrans.com Albatrans’ offer innovative global logistics solutions, rooted in experience and trust, with both our clients and suppliers. Technology, expertise, creativity, combined with careful customer service and a culture of continuous improvement are the core of our operations. That’s why: Professional service with a personal touch. Our motto is more than just marketing. It’s the way we operate. portfolio, will become an increased focus, leveraging the site’s ideal growing conditions. Kumeu River’s expansion into traditional-method sparkling wines is gaining traction. With the success of the Kumeu Cremant, Cremant Rosé, and Blanc de Blanc, international demand is rising, particularly in the UK and Spain.“We’re seeing real interest, which is exciting,” Brajkovich says. “It’s still a small part of what we do, but we see great potential.” As the next generation steps in, bringing fresh perspectives and new expertise, Kumeu River remains committed to the principles that have defined it for nearly eight decades—quality, innovation, and respect for the land. “We’ve come a long way from that small vineyard in 1944,” says Brajkovich.“But at our core, we’re still a family working together, making the best wine possible.” And that, above all else, is what makes Kumeu River Wines truly special. 32 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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