Included in your FBA membership. This event is for Family Business Members and Advisor Members.
Get an inside look at Service Foods, one of NZ’s largest food distribution businesses. Meet the Balar family, go behind the scenes at their facility and learn how the family turned their small corner store into the business it is today.
Founded in Christchurch as a small corner grocer by Stan and Vicki Balar in 1983. It began by supplying the local community with hard-to-find ingredients and has since grown into a national wholesale food service company employing over 800 team members, operating over 220 trucks, and have 15 strategically placed branches across New Zealand.
During this special event, you will hear from Managing Director and 2nd-generation leader Aneil Balar and non-family member COO Richard Campbell. The two will discuss succession, governance, and their expansion and growth into the North Island.
What to expect:
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Facility Tour: Go behind the scenes at Service Foods Christchurch facility and see how the business successfully distributes over 1000 deliveries a day.
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Succession Plan: Understand how the family have put their succession plan in place and how the transition to the next generation unfolded.
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Governance: Learn how the family introduced a formal board and their experience with having non-family member executives board members.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow family business owners and industry peers, share experiences, and build valuable relationships that can support your business's future growth.
Meet Service Foods
Service Foods is a family-owned food distribution company passionate about supplying quality products to businesses across New Zealand. They are one of NZ's largest food distribution businesses, employing over 800 team members, operating over 220 trucks, and maintaining 15 strategically placed branches across the country.
Founded by Stan and Vicki Balar in 1983 as a small corner grocer in Christchurch, Service Foods was established to supply the local community with hard-to-find ingredients. What began as a modest family operation has grown into something far greater. Over four decades, Service Foods has embodied Stan and Vicki's family values and vision, expanding to include hundreds of team members, trucks and distribution centres.
Service Foods' continued commitment to excellence and supporting New Zealand businesses remains unwavering. The business has successfully transitioned to second-generation leadership under Managing Director Aneil Balar and his brother, while integrating experienced non-family leaders like COO Richard Campbell. The company has expanded from its Christchurch roots into the North Island.
Why Come Along?
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Gain exclusive insights into the operations of a successful family business.
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Learn first-hand from the family behind the business about their opportunities and challenges.
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Expand your network within the FBA community and enjoy a relaxed environment for learning, sharing, and connecting.
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Find inspiration and practical ideas for your own business.
Event Details
This event is being held at the Service Foods Christchurch facility.
Please arrive promptly at 5:30pm and enjoy networking, a panel discussion and a tour of their facility.
If you have any questions, need assistance with registration, or require support on the day, please contact Nicole Pluck at Npluck@familybusiness.org.nz. Alternatively, you can reach FBA's Office by calling 0800 249 357.
