“Magnificent Response” To N.Z.’s Sales Drive

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30127, 10 May 1963, Page 14

“Magnificent Response” To N.Z.’s Sales Drive

(N.Z. Pres Association—Copyright)

MELBOURNE, May 9.

The leader of the New Zealand trade mission in Australia, Mr G. W. Lane, of Dunedin, today described the results of the mission’s visit to Melbourne as “magnificent.”

Mr Lane told a press conference today that the businessmen of Melbourne had been most receptive and co-operative to the mission and had shown willingness to assist in all matters.

Sales activities had been an outstanding success in Melbourne, he said. Mr Lane stressed that NewZealand manufacturers would have to make certain that shipping requirements were met properly. Otherwise the success of the mission could be jeopardised. he said. Air-freighting was playing an important part in providing for immediate sales, but obviously it could not do the whole job. Mr Lane said New Zealand asked only for a share of the Australian market in fair competition and equal opportunity with other countries. Some of the items Mr Lane listed as achieving success during the mission were:— Crockery: The crockery firm represented on the mission was aiming at 300 outlets in Australia within three years. Previously there were only 45 outlets, in Victoria.

Ski clothing: A mission member in one day in Mel-

i bourne doubled his previous year’s total export figure to Australia.

Hearing aids: The member’s objective was achieved and he expected at least to double his exports to Australia. Knitted garments: Although the representative is not in Australia at the appropriate selling season, he has made contacts which he feels will assure an impressive entry of his products for next winter. Pleasure craft: Good progress has been made with the introduction of New Zealand-built pleasure craft to the Australian market. Venison: Arrangements are being made to air-freight venison steaks for restaurants in Melbourne. They will be sent from the Rotorua area, and will substantially add to the small quantities flown regularly to Sydney.

Substantia] sales have also been made of fish, home battery-chargers. industrial rubber ware, fancy leather goods. survey equipment dish-washing machines, electric ranges, metal mouldings and builders’ hardware.