64 | Don’t skimp on crop preservation Starting alone in 2004, the business initially covered Taranaki before expanding north and south through. Russell Fredric Independent Wrap has built a nationwide presence supplying crop preservation products, growing steadily from its Taranaki roots into a key partner for farmers and contractors. The business focuses on baleage wrap, net wrap and related products that sit at the centre of modern feed systems, supporting farmers to preserve feed for tighter seasonal periods. Owner Lydia Dickinson says the company was built on a clear idea from the outset. “There was room in the market for an independent player that focused more on service and communication. It wasn’t just about supplying product, it was about doing it better and more professionally. That’s what we built the business on and it’s still what drives us today.” Starting alone in 2004, the business initially covered Taranaki before expanding north and south through a mix of organic growth and acquisition. It later extended into the lower North Island, then into Canterbury and eventually Southland, with each step responding to demand. Growth also brought the need for staff, with territory managers introduced about a decade in to strengthen regional relationships and support. Having local representatives has been critical, Lydia says. “They need someone who understands what they’re doing and can explain why something works. That knowledge and service side is just as important as the product itself.” Today the company operates with a small team covering New Zealand, supplying farmers and contractors during what is often a narrow and weather-dependent window for silage making. Its product range has expanded from core wrap, net and twine into grain bags, silage covers and inoculant systems designed to support fermentation and feed quality. The broader offering reflects a shift toward being a more complete supplier rather than a single-product business. That evolution has taken place alongside wider changes in farming, with baleage playing a more flexible role in feed management across dairy, sheep and beef systems. Product development has also moved with the RURAL SERVICES » Independent Wrap industry, particularly around efficiency and environmental impact. “There’s been a big push toward thinner micron films so you’re using less plastic but still getting the same performance. Plastic has its place because the technology isn’t there to fully replace it yet, but it’s about using it responsibly and managing it properly at the end.” The business actively encourages recycling, recognising the challenge agricultural plastics present while working within the practical realities of current farming systems. During its earlier years, the company received industry recognition, including the 2015 Taranaki Business Awards Service Industry Excellence Award, alongside several earlier awards. Lydia views those milestones as part of an ongoing process. “I don’t tend to focus on the awards too much. They’re a good check that you’re doing something www.unlimit.co.nz Proud to support Independent Wrap Is your business performing as well as it could be? We can help Learn more at COOL ROOMS & F R E E Z E R S 0800 522 665 WWW.MADE2COOL.CO.NZ • Strong Portable Rooms • Made in New Zealand • Accessories sold separately • Delivery available to your site (North Island only) Freezer / Chiller Rooms For Sale or Long Term Lease right, but it really comes back to learning and improving every day.” Strong supplier relationships and forward planning have helped the business navigate pricing pressures and supply challenges, particularly in a competitive market where timing and reliability are critical. Looking ahead, Lydia sees continued opportunity, driven by the need to do things better rather than simply grow bigger. “There’s always room to grow if you’ve got the right people and you’re prepared to do things differently. It’s about being a little bit better each day and looking after the people you work with.”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=