The Warehouse Group Celebrates 20 Years in China

On October 16, 2024, New Zealand retail giant The Warehouse Group (TWG) marked its 20th anniversary in China with a celebration event in Shanghai. This milestone reflects TWG's successful expansion and deepening partnerships within the Chinese market over the past two decades. The celebration event traced the company’s impressive journey since the establishment of its representative office in 2004, showcasing its milestones and successes while outlining ambitious plans for future development. The transformation from a small office to a fully-owned subsidiary not only reflects TWG’s growth in China but also stands as a testament to the increasingly dynamic and attractive business environment in Shanghai.

The anniversary event, attended by John Journee, CEO of The Warehouse Group; Mark Anderton, Chairman of The Warehouse Shanghai Trading Co., ITD and Executive General Manager of Supply Chain and Sourcing; representatives from the New Zealand Consulate in Shanghai; the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce; and key strategic partners including Calvin Yang from HOMELIFE ENTERPRISES LIMITED and Aaron from Deloitte Tax Services Shanghai Co., Ltd., provided an opportunity to review the company’s achievements and explore future opportunities for deeper cooperation with Chinese businesses.

Founded in 1982, The Warehouse Group (TWG) is New Zealand’s largest retail group, holding a dominant position in the domestic market. China has become an essential part of TWG’s supply chain, playing a crucial role in the company's global sourcing strategy. In 2019, TWG established The Warehouse Shanghai Trading Co., ltd, a fully-owned subsidiary, to strengthen its partnerships with Chinese suppliers and deepen collaboration with key strategic partners. This subsidiary provides vital procurement support and is driving TWG’s strategic expansion in the Chinese market. Currently, 60% of the 58 product categories sold in TWG’s 221 stores in New Zealand are manufactured in China, offering New Zealand consumers a wide range of high-quality Chinese-made goods. The Shanghai subsidiary has enhanced collaboration with local suppliers, leading to cost efficiencies and improved service for customers.

TWG’s CEO John Journee reflected on the company's evolution in China, highlighting how TWG has transitioned from sourcing low-cost goods to developing innovative products such as smart home electronics and energy-efficient appliances. He credited the Free Trade Agreement between New Zealand and China for enabling the company to source high-quality products at competitive prices. Back then, New Zealand was the first developed country to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China, and China has consistently been New Zealand’s largest trading partner and export market. In June 2024, the two countries signed further agreements to expand cooperation in areas such as service trade, agricultural exports, and technology.

Mark Anderton, Chairman of The Warehouse Shanghai Trading Co., ITD, and Executive General Manager of Supply Chain and Sourcing, emphasized the importance of local operations in strengthening supplier relationships and improving procurement efficiency, with annual orders increasing from $1 million in 2004 to $100 million today.  Both John Journee and Mark Anderton highlighted that sustainability is central to TWG’s operations in China, aligning with the company’s philosophy of "Being Here for Good." By leveraging China’s advanced manufacturing, TWG has developed eco-friendly products and implemented green energy solutions.

Calvin Yang, a key supplier and representative of Homelife Enterprises, praised the partnership with TWG, and highlighted TWG’s strong focus on sustainability, leveraging China’s advanced manufacturing to reduce its carbon footprint and meet growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Aaron, a partner at Deloitte Tax Services Shanghai, spoke about his firm’s role in helping TWG navigate China's evolving tax regulations, ensuring compliance and facilitating growth. Looking ahead, TWG plans to deepen partnerships with Chinese suppliers and expand its product offerings in smart home technologies and environmentally friendly goods.

At the anniversary celebration, The Warehouse Group honored team members and partners who have made exceptional contributions to the company's growth. The event also highlighted the company’s accomplishments in social responsibility and corporate culture throughout the years. Additionally, a charity auction was conducted, with all proceeds directed toward the construction of schools and the restoration of infrastructure in rural Yunnan Province, thereby providing meaningful support to local communities. TWG’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a reflection of its broader mission to create positive social impact both in New Zealand and China. As TWG celebrates two decades of growth and success in China, it is committed to strengthening partnerships, driving innovation, and continuing to deliver high-quality, sustainable products to customers in both New Zealand and China.