HERALD WEEKLY ISSUE 608: 21 March 2012

True Pacific angles in on quality products
Tupuanga coffee coupled with Hot Samoan Boys Chiili sauce have not only got hearts racing but people talking at the rapid pace with which these quality Pacific products have hit the market.
The products are on display at the Clean and Green Industry Showcase at the National Auditorium.
Tupuanga Coffee, is a family owned and operated business between Tongan Emeline Afeaki-Mafile’o and her husband. With over 30 coffee pickers, 10 cooperative farms, 10 factory staff and a newly opened café all located in Tonga, Tupuanga Coffee is “100% Tongan made,” says Afeaki-Mafile’o.
XOX Pacific Ltd, a Samoan company owned by Stella Muller, produces Hot Samoan Boys Chilli Sauce. The product provides employment for young people and village families, processing Birdseye Chillies needed to create the hot sauce and has been branded and marketed in a uniquely dynamic way that encourages the curiosity of customers. Currently, Hot Samoan Boys Chilli Sauce is only available in New Zealand however Muller has plans to expand into Australia and the Pacific.
Both Afeaki-Mafile’O and Mullers products are sold under the True Pacific brand which assures customers of quality. The attention the two products have received has been rapid.
“This was my weakest point,” acknowledges Afeaki-Meafile’o of the necessary branding and marketing process, “and I think that’s something common with Pacific Island businesses. The good part of this alliance (with True Pacific) is that it provides that space.”
The true Pacific brand was an initiative established by the Pacific Cooperation Foundation a NZ based non -profit body which helps eco-friendly Pacific businesses. Some 25 Pacific businesses have taken up the brand but no Cook Islands businesses. -Maria Tanner

Herald Issue 608 21 March
- Terms of one China Policy document should be reviewed
- Pacific Media Assistance Scheme Seeks Innovation
- Successful NZ visit by PM
- Rerekura Teaurere New Climate Change Coordinator
- News Briefs

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