Independent Wrap Ltd was founded by Lydia Dickinson and is based in New Plymouth, Taranaki. Lydia worked in the industry in 2002 for Brian Hancock at Independent Commission Agencies Ltd and in 2003 he sold his company. It was not feasible for Lydia to buy, or go out on her own at that stage, so Lydia decided to leave the industry and pursue other adventures.
It soon became apparent that owning her own business and being involved in the agricultural industry is something she is passionate about. It was deemed feasible for another agricultural importer to enter the market and an opportunity to stamp her mark on the crop packaging industry.
With a basic knowledge and much determination Lydia established Independent Wrap Ltd in May 2004.
Originally the sales area focus was on the top half of the North Island with service being the point of difference. Independent Wrap also worked with TAH Agencies (Trevor Hill) supplying him with twine and net as he didn't import, and left him to service the Manawatu and Hawkes Bay area. In 2009 Independent Wrap purchased TAH Agencies.
With the North Island covered and going well, in 2011 Independent Wrap extended its area again this time into the South Island. North, Mid and South Canterbury were then being serviced. Lydia serviced this large area solely for many years and the next step was to employ dedicated Sales Area Managers.
Wayne Treymane (left) is based in the Waikato, near Hamilton, and is the Sales Area Manager for the Upper North Island. Wayne is enjoying being back in a sales role and especially in the ag industry. His enthusiasm is contagious, and has a high urgency around service.
Paul Peetoom (right) lives in a small rural community near Feilding, Manawatu, which is a great base for him to be the Sales Area Manager for the Lower North Island. Paul has great empathy for the rural sector and has over 20 years' experience in the high service sales industries.
Dave Chambers (left) is the Sales Area Manager for the Upper South Island and is based near Lincoln. He brings more than 20 years experience servicing and selling in the agricultural sector through Canterbury. Dave enjoys being part of a small dedicated team and making a difference to his clients' business.
Ed Hart (right) has come on board as the Sales Area Manager for the Lower South Island. Ed is based in Southland, near Invercargill and has an extensive background in ag machinery, service and sales, so he understands the demands and pressure agricultural contractors are under in the busy season.
Wayne, Paul, Dave and Ed are serious about service and are a great fit for the business going above and beyond for clients in the demanding ag season.
Lydia continues to be based in New Plymouth and is focused on managing the business and managing the team. She continues to be regularly seen in the field supporting her team and clients.
Independent Wrap sponsors and exhibits at the annual Rural Contractors New Zealand Conference. Every few years Lydia visits Europe to develop relationships with suppliers and source new products. This is also an opportunity to attend the agricultural field day in the UK - Grasslands - to increase knowledge and be up to date with the current trends within the industry.
Independent Wrap has also been successful with many Business Awards: