Business Central September 2021

74 | Sustainability a key driver for firm T T Karen Phelps Lowe Corporation LEATHER INDUSTRY S ustainability is at the heart of Hawke’s Bay tanning company Lowe Corpo- ration. It operates to internationally recognised standards and is always seeking to improve its systems and processes in this area, says company chief executive officer Andrew Ritchie. “Our clients and consumers internationally are demanding accountability in the manufac- ture of leather and as a leader in this space we are well placed. “We are happy to continue to keep improv- ing our performance,” says Andrew who has 30 years experience in the meat and by-prod- uct industry. Importantly Lowe Corporation is a member of the Leather Working Group, which is com- mitted to improving environmental steward- ship in the industry internationally. To become a member a company must meet the group’s biannual audit standard. This is the flagship certification for the leather industry, developed with input from key actors in the supply chain to promote environmental best practice. Launched in 2005 the audit certification assesses the environmental performance and compliance of leather manufacturing facilities and considers factors including water and en- ergy usage, solid waste and effluent manage - ment, traceability and health and safety. Andrew says that Lowe Corporation is constantly working with the group to keep improving its processes. Environmental stewardship is also a per- sonal passion for Lowe Corporation’s owner Andy Lowe. In 2006 he and other land owners em- barked on an ambitious project to restore Cape Kidnappers peninsula back to its former wildlife glory. Covering 2500ha, Cape Sanctuary is home to the widest variety of native bird species living on mainland coastal New Zealand. Andy says he brings that passion and dedication to Lowe Corporation, which he says operates the most modern tannery in New Zealand. It has made major investment in technology to ensure its operation is as efficient and as sustainable as possible, which extends from receiving material right up to how it is packed ready for export. World leading handling equipment makes the job safer for staff and tanning processes are fully automated and computer controlled including recycling and effluent control. As a 100% export business, cattle hides are predominantly exported to Italy for the hand- bag and upholstery market and lambskins to India, China, Pakistan and France to be made into garments and shoe linings. Andrew says Covid-19 has had a negative impact on the garment market but had a stimulating effect on upholstery demand internationally as more people stay at home and renovate. Prices reduced significantly in the face of the Covid-19 outbreak but are showing signs of recovery 12 months on. With its focus on quality, technology and flexibility in both processing and marketing, Lowe Corporation can meet customer de- mands, he says. Based in Hastings, Lowe Corporation has a long history. Graeme Lowe started the compa- ny in 1964 and the company is still owned and run by the Lowe family. It now employs around 100 staff at peak season making it a major local employer. Giving back to the local community has always been important. From the company’s inception it has been a principal sponsor of the Hawke’s Bay Rescue Helicopter, which was established in 1984 to provide a dedicated rescue helicopter service to Hawke’s Bay. Andrew says it is the generous support from individuals, groups, businesses and spon- sors within the Hawke’s Bay community that enable the service to be provided, and Lowe Corporation is proud to play a part. SOIL QUALITY • B OO S T Y O U R • WITH WEBSTERS AGRICULTURAL LIME CALL US TODAY: 06 877 7617 • www.whlc.co.nz Warner Engineering has been in business for over 25 years servicing the meat works and by-products. Machining • Plant maintenance • 3D CAD Design • Fabrication of Stainless • Mild Steel • Aluminum • Installation of PVC, CPVC, PPE & PPR pipe work for use of chemicals and water systems. 0274 482 981 | 7 Groome Place, Whakatu, Hastings | shanewarner@xtra.co.nz