The launch of the Inspire+ event series took place this week at the ANZ Centre in Auckland, bringing together a vibrant mix of food and beverage entrepreneurs, emerging brand owners, and artisan producers from across the sector.
Designed to spark ideas and accelerate growth, the afternoon was sponsored by RewardPay and featured insights from industry professionals, including Jen Rolfe (Rainger & Rolfe), Deane Hubball (Focus Insights), Sam Borgfeldt (Beverage & Food Gurus), and Deva Dhar (Oh Bubbles and Dhar Consultancy). The speakers shared practical strategies on digital marketing, data-led pitching, cost-effective reformulation, and building resilience in an ever-changing market.
“For New Zealand to thrive economically and socially, we really need growth. It gave me real hope and positivity seeing such ambitious, motivated business owners,” said Jen Rolfe.
“Inspire+ was a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded food and beverage brands committed to growth,” said Deane Hubball.
"I always enjoy any opportunity to connect with small FMCG businesses. While every business is unique and has its own challenges, there are also many businesses facing similar challenges, and sharing experiences with each other in a face-to-face forum is still a great way to fast-track learning," added Sam Borgfeldt.
"I always feel heartened that people are willing to share their knowledge for free to try and give others a helping hand on their journey. Running a small FMCG business is already tough enough, so these connections are very necessary."
"The energy at Inspire+ was fantastic. It was clear that everyone in the room was hungry to learn, connect, and grow. These kinds of events are so valuable for emerging brands, not just for the insights, but for the sense of community,” said Deva Dhar.
Inspire+ founder Tania Walters said the event reflected the energy and potential that exists within the sector.
“We launched Inspire+ to give smaller brands a space to grow, connect, and be supported. Running a business can be incredibly lonely, but events like this remind us that you don’t have to do it alone. The energy in the room showed just how powerful it is when driven people come together to share ideas, build relationships, and back each other,” said Tania Walters.
The Inspire+ initiative has been made possible in part through funds raised at the Peter Mitchell Memorial Golf Day. Peter, a long-time publisher and passionate supporter of the grocery and FMCG industries, was committed to helping emerging food and beverage businesses succeed. Tania said he would have been thrilled to see the turnout.
“Peter believed deeply in giving smaller brands the chance to be heard. It’s incredibly meaningful that the funds raised in his name are now providing the foundation for this community,” said Tania.
As part of its ongoing mission to support growth, Inspire+ will offer members the opportunity each year to nominate a team member to go into the draw for a fully funded trip to one of the leading international food and beverage expos. The goal is to bring global insights back into local businesses and help spark innovation at home.
With strong attendance, meaningful conversations, and enthusiastic engagement throughout the afternoon, Inspire+ has set the tone for a year of connection and progress.
The team behind Inspire+ extended their thanks to all who attended and contributed to the success of the event.
Even those who were unable to attend are invited to get involved. Inspire+ is designed to bring together brand owners who want to share ideas, build networks, and grow their businesses with confidence. Membership is open now for those ready to be part of the journey.
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