50 Years Preserved

2019-10-01

At a time when consumers are looking for more and more connection with the foods they eat, Michael Barker proudly shares the Barker’s of Geraldine journey, the people, the innovations and the philosophies that still guide them.

After 50 years of business there are a lot of stories to be told… a lot of learnings to share, a lot of memories to cherish, a lot of laughs to be had and many proud moments to revisit.

50 Years Preserved is Michael Barker’s opportunity to record and celebrate the pioneering work of his parent’s Anthony and Gillian Barker, who established Barker’s of Geraldine in 1969. The book records the story of a two generational ‘family’ business and the tireless work of many people – the harnessing of a village industry. From this collective endeavour, a powerful brand has been born, and a business that Geraldine and greater New Zealand can be proud of which still thrives on a corner of the family farm.

The 300 page book includes almost three hundred pictures from the family and business archives and 30 contributions from past and present staff and other stakeholders. The story is not a chronology of facts or a comprehensive recollection of detail but rather a story that focuses on innovation – the foundation of the company. It follows a journey of building strong brands and about people who invested in a dream which turned into reality.