Central Otago businesses make their mark

Lakes District and Central Otago businesses made their mark in the Deloitte Fast 50 Otago and Lower South Island list of regional winners announced in Dunedin last night.

Deloitte Dunedin managing partner Mike Horne said the companies proved being based in a small area was not an impediment to growth.

''These companies reach a wide market, many of them already operating nationally or internationally.''

A common theme behind their success was the ability to identify and then capitalise on a point of difference from their competitors.

They did a specific thing well and tried hard to nail their particular niche, he said.

This year, the region had its highest number of companies entering the national Fast 50 index with six.

Three of those were not regional winners because they had been beaten by other companies, but still had impressive enough growth to make the index, Mr Horne said.

The six regional companies to be included on the national Fast 50 index were: Who Ate All The Pies; Compass Agribusiness Management; Gore Flooring Xtra Colour Plus; Solar Pro; South Pacific Fire Protection; MAXRaft.

The companies in the South were focused on ''controlling the controllables'' and succeeded because of their ongoing energy and passion.

Asked about the rise of the Central Otago Lakes companies this year, Mr Horne said it was a reflection of the Central Otago economy which was growing strongly, allowing most people to benefit.

In Dunedin, overall growth continued but it was more subdued.

''There are good success stories in Dunedin but it is not a rising tide lifting all boats situation.''

To be considered for the index, turnover growth of more than 200% in a year was a minimum requirement.

The regional winners were now part of the national index and category winners would be announced on November 4.

 

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