bright issue 24: September / October 2007

Key stories in this issue include New Zealand companies learning to boost productivity; creative companies using geographical isolation to their advantage; establishing a presence in the Chinese market; Kiwi businesses diving into online retail; the economic benefits of Antarctic-related activities; speciality food makers addressing the difficulties of exporting; France's changing F&B environment; and briefs on successful exporters.

Contents page (PDF, 292KB)

In brief (PDF, 656KB)

Editorials
Business portal goes interactive
Squawking about NZ
Consultancy lands big one in Oman
Massey link opens doors to India
FDA gives nod to honey-based wound care

Cover story

Learing to be lean (PDF, 618KB)

Raising productivity is a must if New Zealanders want a more prosperous future. Kiwi businesses have been comparatively slow to adopt internationally proven methods to achieve productivity gains, but change is afoot.

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Departments

Market snapshot (PDF, 286KB)

France's changing F&B environment

Exporter focus (PDF, 1,116KB)

Business briefs on Preston International, baby accessories company; Vianet International, creaters of an internet-based travel management system; Earth Sea Sky, suppliers to Antarctica New Zealand; Wedgelock Equipment, manufacturer of excavator attachments

The bottom line (PDF, 506KB)

When the heart trumps the head
Dr. Ganesh Nana makes a case for the heart’s role in decision making.

Innovation nation (PDF, 2,196KB)

Stop killing ideas!
Challengers of the status quo just might save your company, says Ed Bernacki.

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Other Features

A creative approach (PDF, 781KB)

Technology, flexibility and a unique perspective are opening doors to international markets for these creative companies, reports Deirdre Coleman.

Making your way on the mainland (PDF, 751KB)

Creating an in-market presence in China seems daunting – but knowledge is power. We offer tools for establishing a legal entity for business purposes.

Catching the long (re)tail (PDF, 1,317KB)

Online retail is booming, but Kiwi businesses have been slow to respond. Kim Griggs finds valuable lessons from a few that have taken the plunge.

Banking on “the ice” (PDF, 867KB)

Antarctic science has been a boon to Canterbury business. Bette Flagler looks at the economic benefits of doing good work on the continent.

Gourmet growth (PDF, 772KB)

Speciality food makers find exporting a necessity – but it’s no cakewalk for small producers. Amanda Cropp explores secrets of success in a tough segment.