The friendship and alliances between Australia and New Zealand are as enduring as family ties. Despite their distinct identities and cultural nuances, the two nations have fostered a bond that transcends borders and time. This relationship, rooted in shared history and cultural affinities, extends beyond mere camaraderie to encompass robust economic partnerships and collaborative efforts on the global stage. Even in matters of food standards, such as those regulated by Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ), the synergy between the two countries is evident.
When OMG! Decadent Donuts in Australia decided to expand internationally, it was only natural that New Zealand became the first destination. The objective was to appoint a Master Licensee for New Zealand and replicate the successful business model established in Australia, fostering independent ownership under a licensed model across the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand.
While the shared heritage between the two countries is evident, finding individuals who resonate with the same personal and business values was a daunting task. The Directors of OMG! Decadent Donuts HQ in Australia—David Moore, Andrew Clarke, Steven Morris, and Diane O’Reilly—were faced with the challenge of finding the right candidates to spearhead operations in New Zealand. Fortunately, Auckland couple Rod and Carmelle Palmer emerged as the perfect fit and have taken on New Zealand as Master Licensee.
Rod and Carmelle, born and bred Kiwis, stumbled upon OMG! Decadent Donuts during a holiday in Queensland. Their first encounter with the delectable treats at Eumundi Markets left them astounded by the flavours and textures.
In her previous working career, Carmelle has attained qualifications as a chef, child nutritionist, and a food psychologist, and the experiences learning about and working in those fields, coupled with her personal experience as someone with Coeliac Disease, plus severe food allergies of close family members, provides a unique perspective on dietary requirements.
Meanwhile, Rod, a successful businessman in the concrete industry, has no allergies at all but just loves donuts. In fact, it would be fair to say Rod is something of a donut aficionado. Rod’s family origins are Scottish where Coeliac disease is very prevalent and the Coeliac gene runs through his family, however, he isn’t personally Coeliac.
For Carmelle, the inclusivity of OMG! Decadent Donuts was a major draw. With a product catering to diverse dietary needs, everyone can indulge in the same treat of an OMG! Decadent Donut without exclusion. This ethos of inclusivity aligns perfectly with her and Rod’s core values of authenticity, transparency, honesty, and kindness which are upheld by the founders and directors of OMG! Decadent Donuts in Australia.
For Carmelle and Rod, joining the OMG! family meant embracing these family-centric values and fostering a business that embodies them.
With the launch of OMG! Decadent Donuts in New Zealand scheduled for June 2024 to coincide with World Donut Day, the alliance between Australia and New Zealand takes on a sweeter note. This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a new chapter for OMG! Decadent Donuts as it expands its horizons beyond Australia, forging a delightful partnership with its nearest neighbour, New Zealand. Find our first New Zealand events and pop ups here.
