It was 1981 and everyone was wearing Stubbies when Dad’s Pies began in a pint-sized pie shop at Red Beach. The task at hand was feeding peckish beach goers on pies and ice creams.
Q: What is the brand story?
A: Eddie and Erika Grooten purchased a small beach side shop selling ice creams and pies to summer beach goers. Eddie quickly realised that there was a high demand for a quality New Zealand pie. Over the coming years of tough times, through the different stages of growth, and the untimely downturn in the economy it was his ambition, drive and focus on keeping the high standard that got the business where it is today.
As the next generation of Grootens become involved they are bringing a new wave of energy and passion that will drive Dad’s Pies to become a highly recognised food manufacturer and a market leader.
Q: What is the current product range and what makes them stand out in the market?
A: Alongside their authentic story, and product consistency, standing out also comes from within the pie. Eddie loves the freshness and quality of New Zealand and its produce, therefore he has only dealt with the best New Zealand meat suppliers and honoured the relationship through the hard times, no matter what.
The range includes 110g Juniors, the staple Sausage Roll range, 900g Family pies and their most popular 200g pies. With over 20 flavours on the market and 200 recipes on the books, they stand out through flavour innovation and pure quality.
Q: What is innovative and unique about the product?
A: Their effective execution in quality comes from having a full-time chef, product developer and butcher on site, constantly improving the high standards. Having a high standard of processes enables them to turn over new products efficiently and provide the market with trending new flavours. Dad’s Pies contain no added preservatives and have a shelf life of up to 18 months, when frozen.
Q: Who is the consumer and what benefit does your product bring them?
A: From the on-the-go tradie, to the hard-working soccer mum wanting to provide wholesome options for the family, Dad’s Pies brings convenience and quality to the table. Providing no artificial flavours, no MSG, fresh New Zealand grown vegetables, grass fed New Zealand beef and lamb and fully trimmed New Zealand chicken, allows Dad’s Pies to offer a product that everyone can trust and enjoy more of.
Q: What consumer trend does the product support?
A: With quality, natural ingredients, vegetarian, convenience and health being constant trending topics, Dad’s Pies have always been ahead of trends and making sure their recipes and processes are constantly improved.
For more information please contact Tom Grooten at tom@dadspies.co.nz or on +64 022 429 2809
