A small local business in Cairns, Queensland has achieved a major milestone that has put them on the map not only in Australia, but around the world. Fenglehorn, an award-winning sauce maker that prides itself on using locally-sourced produce, has secured a major export deal with a major US retailer.
For a business that started at Rusty’s Market in Cairns just a few years ago, this is a remarkable achievement. The company’s focus on quality and flavour has won them many awards in recent years, including Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards for their range of Aussie Sauces & BBQ Rubs.
What sets Fenglehorn apart from many other businesses is their unwavering commitment to using 99% Queensland grown produce. This not only ensures that the products are fresh and delicious, but also supports local farmers and the economy.
The company’s Director, Mikey Hayman, said that exporting to the US market had always been a dream scenario for them since they started in 2017, but it seemed too difficult to break in. However, with persistence and a little bit of luck, Fenglehorn was invited to exhibit at the Taste of Queensland export showcase, facilitated by Trade & Investment Queensland and held in Brisbane. This led to negotiations with a major US retailer, and soon Fenglehorn sauces and BBQ rubs will be available in over 3,800 stores across America.
As an Australian Owned Certified business, Fenglehorn truly embodies the values of quality and excellence that our country is known for. They are a testament to the fact that with hard work, passion, and a commitment to quality, any business can achieve great things.
Congratulations to Fenglehorn for their incredible achievement, and for showcasing the amazing flavours of Queensland to the US consumer market!
Navigating the Great Australian Potato Shortage and Supporting Local Businesses
Australia is currently experiencing a potato shortage due to heavy rainfall and major flooding that has devastated the country’s potato production.
The poor weather conditions have significantly impacted the potato harvest, particularly in the eastern states, leading to a shortage of potatoes and an increase in the price of potato-based products. Supermarket chains like Coles have had to introduce purchasing limits on frozen potatoes and potato-based snacks.
This shortage has also affected restaurants and other commercial businesses, forcing some to close their doors or find alternative options. The situation is expected to improve in the coming months, but the industry is currently facing challenges to meet the demand.
The current potato shortage in Australia is a reminder of the importance of supporting Australian Owned businesses. The potato industry and related businesses, like restaurants and retail outlets, are an integral part of the Australian economy and provide employment and income for many people. By choosing to buy and consume products from Australian Owned businesses, we can support our local economy and help to keep jobs and revenue within the country.
Additionally, Australian Owned businesses are more likely to prioritise supply to the Australian market first, ensuring that the needs of the local population are met before exporting abroad. The challenges faced by the potato industry and related businesses during this time is a great opportunity for us to show our support and appreciation for the hardworking individuals and companies that make up these businesses, who are playing a vital role in feeding the nation.
It is important to remember that by choosing to buy local products and support local businesses, we are helping to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of our economy and secure access to the goods we need.
The 7 words launching Aussie owned businesses to the world
Aussies are innovators at heart. We see obstacles that need a solution and we don’t shy away from hard work. This is the Aussie way. And the Australian Fencing and Agriculture industry is no different.
A group of small-scale manufacturers in Australia have received national and international attention for their innovative products – all designed and made right here in Australia.
Brought together by Woodshield Business Development Manager, Ashley Davidson, these businesses have a common interest: keeping jobs and investment in Australia. They also share a common logo: the unique Australian Owned Certified logo.
“I’m a proud Aussie owned manufacturer and it was a no brainer to apply for my Australian Owned Certification. Once I realised there were other businesses in the fencing industry that were officially Australian Owned certified – I had to bring us together,” said Mr Davidson.
“We have all overcome obstacles in our own farming and agriculture businesses and have designed and manufactured new products to find a solution,” said Mr Davidson.
Mr Davidson’s obstacle was to find a replacement to chemically treated timber posts.
“I had to find a product that was strong, durable, easy to use and recyclable. The Wood-Shield Post concept was created and is now a unique patented product.”
James Higgins from James Higgins Rural Fencing is another incredible story from this group of Aussie owned businesses.
“One particular problem common with old fences is loose and sagging wires. My Australian manufactured fence repair tool solution is the result of trial and error. Since starting the design process in early 2019, we have tested nine different prototypes in order to arrive at the finished model.
James said that whilst 2020 presented some real curveballs, the one huge benefit was a renewed interest in Australian made and owned products.
“Since getting on board with the Australian Owned team and the group effort started by Ashley Davidson from Woodshield, I’ve noticed a distinct uptick in sales and interest from both domestic and international markets.”
Another fencing invention, the Vini Clip was designed by Ian Western from Plastic Precise Products Co – in response to a need for a wire clip for the vineyard industry that could stand up against extreme temperatures and last the distance.
“In 2009 many large businesses moved offshore for their requirements and Australian manufacturing took a hit. We decided to downsize and focus on a smaller range of products. The Vini-Clip continues to be sold around Australia each year and is iconic in the industry.”
Then there is Walter Fencing. When asked why they moved into the business of manufacturing equipment, Company Director Stephen Walters replied, “we’ve always engineered and made our own gear to help make fencing as quick and efficient as possible, and we realised if we love our gear so much, other people might too!”
“Our goal is to increase our research and development capabilities to allow us to remain at the cutting edge of innovation in the fencing industry. We will continue to work with contractors and farmers in an attempt to shape the future of rural fencing in Australia for the better.”
Four other businesses make up this Australian Owned Fencing Group; Wireman HQ, Spiralfast wire joiner, Davo’s Fencing Clip and Fastway Fencing Tie Offs.
This group of fencing and agriculture industry leaders have had enthusiastic endorsements from Australian agriculturalist and educator turned ‘posterboy for fencing’, Tim Thompson. His promotion of Australian Agriculture has helped boost awareness and promotion of these fencing products through his video reviews.
Australian Owned General Manager Kristy Ponting applauded the Aussie engenuity and collaboration of these businesses.
“Our mission is to support the Australian business community and give businesses the tools to grow and contribute to the long-term prosperity of this country.
“It is so encouraging to see Australian Owned Certified licensees use our strong and growing network to boost Australian industry.
“Long live Aussie manufacturing!”
Be part of Australia’s growth, support Australian Owned Certified business.
Outback Harvest is owned and operated by the McNaul family, located near the township of Wakool in the southern Riverina of NSW. They have a long history in agriculture stretching back four generations, with a passion for innovation that has led them to grow and market the first Australian grown teff, a grain traditionally grown in African regions.
By providing a range of ‘paddock to plate’ products, Outback Harvest reinvigorates the personal connection between the origins of food produced by farmers, and the people that consume them. They also support other Aussie farmers, sourcing ingredients from them throughout the production process.
Being official certified by Australian Owned, Outback Harvest use their AO certification and AO logo to better assist the consumer in identifying them as locally owned.
‘Consumers feel it’s important to support Australian-owned businesses in light of the current Covid-19 pandemic. They are learning that it has never been more important to strengthen our economy and our communities. We feel proud to be an Australian Owned Business and to be associated with a logo that resonates with so many people’, says Mr McNaul.
Since being granted the Australian Owned licence the community response has been ‘outstanding’, reports Mr McNaul. ‘Having an Australian Owned Logo is a competitive advantage on International brands who cannot possibly own this title’, he said.
‘Although we have always showcased that our products are proudly Australian grown and owned by an Australian family, having this licence has tied it in nicely to promote within the community’ Australian Owned are proud to have granted Outback Harvest with the Australian Owned Licence in acknowledgement of their Australian grown, produced and owned products. Find their business directory listing here.
