Group of people standing

From local to global: strategies from three food and beverage manufacturing businesses

21 January, 2026

NSW food and beverage products are making their mark on both local and international markets, thanks to the creativity and ambition of small businesses showcased at Fine Food Australia 2025 – the largest food industry trade show in the southern hemisphere.

For some businesses, participation was made possible through Investment NSW’s Flavours of NSW zone subsidy program, which helps food and beverage manufacturers access industry development opportunities and export support. This initiative enables businesses to scale, connect with new customers and explore global markets.

Meet three inspiring business who exhibited in the Flavours of NSW zone in September 2025:

Turning business into success:  For founder and CEO of Gather by Manuka, Matt Blomfield, the secret to building a thriving business is simple, ‘bringing all your previous experience to your new business – that’s more important than anything else’. 

Solving everyday problems: Nimbus Plant Milk began with a frustration. Founder and CEO Alexandra Bekker hated how many Tetra Paks her family went through. After surveying plant milk drinkers, she discovered others shared the same concerns – too few packs being recycled, milk expiring before the carton was finished, and the long ingredient lists. ‘Nimbus was my way of solving all three problems at once, in one simple, everyday product,’ Alexandra said.

Sharing culture through food: For owner and Executive Chef of Nunka Hampers and Gifts Matt Atkins, the journey started early: ‘I knew in primary school that I wanted to be a chef. Learning about native Australian foods from my family and through my culture was my biggest inspiration, Matt said’. Today Nunka celebrates First Nations Heritage by bringing native flavours to their customers.

Thinking about exporting and/or participating in a similar program? Here’s tips and lessons from these three businesses:

  • Take the plunge, even if you think you're not ready or ‘too small’, you'll meet fellow business owners who will offer invaluable advice on becoming export ready.
  • Start with your hero product and a clear story: One great product and strong creative strategy can open doors.
  • Understand the cost: An expo stand fee is one part. Add setup, signage, logistics, and staffing and the cost easily doubles.
  • Refine your pitch to 10 seconds: Communicate value quickly and clearly to a new audience.
  • Be ready with your paperwork. Have your documents, messaging and branding up to date and readily available to quickly include in a contract, or tender.
  • Be patient: Deals take time – may require months of follow up after initial meetings with potential local and international customers.

Tailored support for businesses looking to grow globally:

Focus sectors – learn how Investment NSW helps businesses invest, grow and innovate across key industries.

Export from NSW – find out how Investment NSW can support your exporting journey

Flavours of NSW – showcases the diverse food and beverage manufacturing capabilities of NSW.

TradeStart Advisors – free expert advice, programs and tools to connect to international markets.

Export Finance Australia – learn how the Australian Government’s export credit agency supports businesses to compete globally.

Service NSW Business Bureau – find grants, financial assistance and personalised advice. 

Support for First Nations people starting a business:

First Nations Bushfood & Botanical Alliance of Australia (FNBBAA)–access support to observe cultural and intellectual property standards for native foods and botanicals.

Yarpa Hub NSW – tailored support for First Nations businesses, industry and community.

Support from the NSW Small Business Commissioner:

Training and resources to win business and sell to government – guidance, tools and online training to help you win new business and sell to the NSW government.