Business beyond the borders – an interview with Cook Islands Pacific Pearl Merchants (Bergman & Sons)

A quick look at Bergman & Sons’ website shows the dedication this business has to the international market. With spectacular imagery truly showcasing their black pearl products, the goal of successfully entering the New Zealand online market seems within reach. 

Rarotonga, the familiar and much loved holiday destination for New Zealanders is, however, tantalisingly out of reach due to the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Frequent lockdowns and border closures mean potential tourists remain frustratedly in New Zealand. Bergman & Sons’ goal seems a logical step to bring a little piece of the Cook Islands to New Zealand.

Director Ben Bergman described the help required to mitigate the effects of COVID.

“As a direct consequence of COVID’s devastating impact, we had to radically revamp our overhead model – revising costs and just becoming more efficient. We were determined not to cut any staff and were grateful to receive the wage subsidy.” He continues, “With the interruption in trade, our staff have become more capable and flexible, helping with cleaning and reconfiguring the store. Everyone is willing to pitch in – it works both ways.”

Focusing on expansion into the New Zealand market and the need to acquire stock for their online store, Ben contacted the local Chamber of Commerce where he learned about Business Link Pacific’s subsidy programme. The subsidy has gone towards new stock, impossible without assistance.

It has been fantastic to have this option, and we are hugely appreciative. Anything and everything helps. It’s been incomprehensible, and nothing can prepare you for the reality this disaster entailed. Quite apart from the physical impact on the business, the impact psychologically has been immense, and we have all had to become very flexible and resilient as we find ways to survive.

Working with their existing advisor, KPMG, Bergman & Sons have a new and evolved business plan to ensure their survival long into the future. That plan incorporates their stunning new website, changing their marketing approaches to include social media marketing, and developing online distribution channels. 

Confidence in the ability of the business to survive and prosper has increased with the assistance of BLP and business advisory service provider KPMG. Bergman & Sons will continue their long-standing relationship with KPMG, enjoying regular exchange of business ideas and innovations.

Without the subsidy from BLP, rolling out the expansion of our business to the New Zealand market would have been slower and significantly more challenging.

BLP supports an extensive network of advisory partners across the pacific islands, who offer services in 15 different areas, including accounting, marketing, human resources, diversity and inclusion and business strategy. 

To get in contact with a BLP business advisor, businesses that employ 5 to 50 employees can use the free self-assessment online tools, such as the Business Health Check and the Continuity planner.

Also, companies can book a free face-to-face consultation in the countries where BLP operates to go through the business diagnostic, a comprehensive assessment of business needs and opportunities. Based on the assessment results,  businesses are provided with a list of Business Advisory Service Providers that can help address relevant business needs.  

Visit Business Link Pacific Portal to use our free self-assessment online tools or book a local consultation in your country. Country contacts.