A DOUBLE WIN FOR BARKER’S

Barker's of Geraldine were so excited to be announced as the winner of the Large Manufacturer category at the ARA 2021 Business Excellence Awards in Timaru. The win compliments Barker’s Foodstore & Eatery who were also recognised as the best Emerging Business. The two wins add to Barker’s previous recognition at the awards in 2009 and 2014.

It was a privilege to celebrate organisational diversity, resilience and success amongst our South Canterbury community, especially after a challenging year. Agnes Baekelandt, our CEO, recognised the success factor that helped our business remain buoyant over the past 18 months;

‘As a business, we are about the right size to adapt to the changing conditions post-Covid. We’re not too small that we get snowed under and not too big, allowing us to exercise flexibility and turn things around when the landscape changes.’

Despite a turbulent year, we have launched many new exciting products that have helped kiwi families enjoy more time at home; our new versatile Meal Sauces help you make everyday meals exceptional (and in new 2-4 serve pack sizes!) and our new Premium Mixer Soda Syrups add a splash of fancy for making drinks exciting at home. The year 2020 also brought a powerful innovation out of lockdown with the development of our new Immunity Gels - using our knowledge and love of the Vitamin C- rich New Zealand blackcurrant - the great tasting, easy-to-take gel sachet is a great way to support daily immunity.

It was a pleasure to take a moment to celebrate another year in business with many other locals on the night. Congratulations to all the Finalists and Winners!