VIDEO: Speaker spotlights - talking consumer trends, sustainability and research at NZ’s Natural Products Summit

With regulatory uncertainty in China creating exports concerns, and a domestic market witnessing a slowdown in growth in both grocery and pharmacy channels, delegates at the event in Nelson heard how understanding the evolving needs of consumers was vital.

In this video, we caught up with Amarjit Sahota from Ecovia Intelligence, who explained how consumers are now demanding more from natural products. Hear he him discuss how ethical business practices and responsible consumption are now hot topics that the industry can ill afford to ignore.

Supplier support

Likewise, Bo Hendgen, founder of therapeutic oils company Absolute Essential, explains how a commitment to sustainability can create supplier and consumer loyalty. The long-time advocate of sustainable policies argues it’s imperative that the natural products sector is seen to benefit suppliers, as well as consumers.

And finally we assess the importance of high quality research in building consumer trust and opening the doors to new international markets with Dr Amanda Wiggins, from Forest Herbs Research. The company makes anti-fungal products from the horopito tree, and its commitment to research has seen it build strong markets in South Africa and Italy, as well as lead to new product development.

Check out the video as the speakers provide a snapshot of their full presentations.