Opinion - Despite Uncertainty, It’s Time to Celebrate Marlborough’s Business Success
Kylie Cornelius | Executive Officer | Marlborough Chamber of Commerce
CEO’s from across the NZ Chamber network have recently completed a Regional Business Conditions Survey, capturing business conditions and sentiment from Northland to Southland. The survey paints a picture of the national business community in a holding pattern, with CEOs describing a “Groundhog Day” of cautious investment, flat performance, and a wait-and-see approach.
Here in Marlborough, we’re not immune to these national trends. The survey reflects what many of us already know; that retail, hospitality, and parts of the construction sector continue to do it tough. Costs are rising, demand is soft, and confidence is fragile. Energy costs and infrastructure issues continue to be the fly in the ointment across the country.
Yet amid the caution, there are pockets of real optimism. Rural regions like ours are holding their ground, supported by strong performances in agriculture, food production, manufacturing, and logistics. Marlborough businesses are quietly getting on with the job by innovating, exporting, and succeeding in spite of wider uncertainty.
But that uncertainty is hard to ignore. Many CEOs expressed concern about international instability, particularly around trade and export markets. Several made reference to the so-called “Trump effect” as a source of anxiety making business planning more difficult. And it’s not just exporters feeling this, there is a flow on effect at a local level. As one Marlborough furnishing retailer recently told me, “I can tell when my phone is going to ring based on confidence reported by media.”
It’s a stark reminder that confidence, both consumer and business, is easily shaken. But it’s also something we can actively restore.
That’s why now, more than ever, is the time to celebrate the businesses that are not just surviving, but thriving. Marlborough is home to some truly remarkable operators, many of whom are achieving on a national and international scale yet remain under the radar.
So, here’s my plug: entries are now open for the 2degrees Marlborough Business Excellence Awards, and we want to hear from you. With 11 categories, free entry, and a straightforward entry process, there’s never been a better time to showcase your business.
These awards aren’t just about trophies, they’re about sharing stories, finding new opportunities, and recognising the people behind the scenes who make our region tick.
Entries close 15 September at marlboroughchamber.nz. If you're proud of what you do, or know someone who deserves recognition, enter now!
Let’s celebrate the resilience, innovation, and excellence that continues to define Marlborough business. Because even in uncertain times, there’s always success worth spotlighting.