Industry Leader to visit Cook Islands

Annah Stretton’s second book ‘Wise Heart’ explains the values behind this entrepreneur’s drive for success. In this candid, engaging book she shares the strategies and tools that have got her to the top and that have kept her there.
From art student to accountant; entrepreneur to serial philanthropist and now industry leader; Annah Stretton’s story is one of passion, colour, generosity and extreme business success.
Annah’s business, Stretton Group remains based in the Waikato where her success has grown to include a chain of 30 fashion retail stores throughout New Zealand, export accounts to the U.K., Ireland, and Australia, a publishing arm that delivers three magazine titles to the market – one of which is the highly successful ‘Her Magazine’ and interests in hospitality.
Stretton Group is based in a multimillion dollar purpose built head office building in the Waikato allowing Annah to factor for growth; particularly in the global fashion market.
In addition to directing her collection of business interests, Annah’s boundless energy also allows her to continue to be actively involved in a huge number of philanthropic endeavours, supporting many national groups including Look good Feel Better, Starship, SPCA, Safe and many Breast Cancer initiatives.
In 2008, the true level of Annah’s achievements and generosity of spirit was captured when she was awarded the honour of becoming a Member of New Zealand Order of Merit for Services to Fashion, Business and the Community.
Annah has shown at Air New Zealand Fashion Week since 2002 and at the last four Australian Fashion Weeks. 2010 highlighted the first Australian individual show for the designer who is consistently re-inventing and bringing fresh new feminine looks to the runway.
Following on from this recognition, Annah became the 2009 New Zealand recipient of the Veuve Clicquot Award. This global tribute acknowledges female achievers in business and industry who exemplify the qualities of Madame Clicquot, the woman behind the successful champagne house Veuve Clicquot.
In 2009, Annah was also invited to serve as an advisory board member for New Zealand Global Women - a network of recognised, accomplished senior women leaders from a wide range of national and international disciplines and industries.
Annah’s credibility as an over-achiever who has highlighted her abilities not only in New Zealand but also in the global market place was recently proven as she was chosen to be the face of Telecom’s XT Mobile Network – The journey for this extraordinary woman is far from over!
Annah’s clothing is now available in Rarotonga in id.CK fashion store in Banana Court.
Annah is going to be the Guest Speaker at the Chamber of Commerce meeting on August 25th more details will follow in a couple of weeks.

Herald Issue 463 10 June
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