Yealands Estate success in the USA Export Market recognised by American Chamber of Commerce

Yealands Estate has been awarded the Exporter of the Year, in the over $5 million category, at the AmCham-DHL Express Success & Innovations Awards.

The American Chamber of Commerce Awards celebrate success and innovation in the export, import and investment sectors between New Zealand and its third-largest trading partner, the US. In the year ended September 2011, exports to the United States comprised 8.3% of New Zealand's total exports[1].

Jason Judkins, CEO accepted the award last night at the Success & Innovation Awards Gala Dinner, held at the Pullman Auckland Hotel.

The judges said it was evident that the cornerstone of Yealands Estate’s success was based on a foundation of strong relationships.

“The award winners showed a real edge over their competitors by developing and sustaining joint venture and partnering relationships, whether it be for market access, developing innovation, or support in procurement and supply chain,” says Stephen Titter, American Chamber of Commerce Awards, Judge.

Yealands Estate Owner and Founder, Peter Yealands, says the award is testament to the significant work the Marlborough winery has put into developing this highly competitive export market.

“The USA has been a focus since Yealands Estate launched in 2008 and we’re proud of the growth we’ve achieved to-date. We know that there is demand for New Zealand wine from USA consumers and we’re confident that this market will only continue to grow.”

NZ Winegrower statistics show the value of exports to the USA has risen by 381 percent, from NZD$48.22 million in 2002 to NZ$231.92 million in 2011[2].

Yealands Estate beat off strong competition in the over $5 million category including Natural History New Zealand, Serato Inv LP and TRU-TEST Ltd.

The key brands the company exports to the US include, Yealands Estate, Yealands, and The Crossings.

Yealands Estate is owned by Yealands Wine Group, which currently has an international reach of 67 international markets.


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[1] New Zealand Economic and Financial Overview 2012
2 New Zealand Wine Annual Report p.32