Supplier Background

Our Milestones

1984

Prolife Foods Ltd founded as a hot nut vending supplier - focussed on supplying health foods shops and independent retail. Operated from the Crosby home garage. First year turnover approx $113,000.

1985

Diversification into catering lines, canned goods, oils, herbs and spices conducting business with the hospitality trade, primarily in Rotorua. Later a decision was made to refocus on the proven success of the self selection business.

1988

Bulk Foods proposition developed and migrated to supermarkets. Consumers now have the flexibility to choose the quantity they would like.

1990

Value Pack launched - own brand, high quality product in clear simple packing with a 200% guarantee.

1993

Higher quality service of Bulk Foods offering developed - Alison's Pantry in Foodstuffs NZ - endorsed by kiwi icon, Alison Holst.

2001

Required significant expansion of warehousing and production and made the move to the current premises, 8.5 hectares in Maui Street.

2002

Waikato Business Excellence Awards: CEO of The Year, Innovation Award and Manufacturing Award Finalist.

2004

First venture into business in Australia - purchase of Australasian Bulk Foods Pty Ltd. (ABF)

2005

BC's snacks launched; Amcham Award - Importer of the Year from the USA; NZFSA Certification; ISO 9001:2000 compliance.

2006

NZ sales reached $42M. Sale of ABF.

2007

Recipient of Nargon Best Small Supplier Award for Excellence in Service; Sales exceeded $50M. Board of Directors established, incorporating three independent directors.

2008

Acquisition of Mother Earth - premium pre packaged brand; Nargon Best Small Supplier Award finalist. Expansion of Warehousing and Production facility.

2009

Appointment of CEO. Winner of Nargon Best Small Supplier Silver Award. Launch of Mother Earth Snack Packs and Nut Packs. Celebrated 25 years in business.

2010

Re-launch into Australian market with Mother Earth brand.

Appointment of Australian based director.

2011

Acquisition of Donovans Chocolates - a premium New Zealand cocolate and confectionary brand.

Testing of Bulk Foods concept in Australia.

2012

Launched Mother Earth into affluent Asian markets.

Achieved over $100M sales.

Further extensions of warehousing and manufacturing capability.