Chris Graham's journey in the meat processing industry began early, with his family's butcher shop meat processing plant. From a young age, he was immersed in butchery, working alongside his parents and learning the ropes of meat processing.
His dedication was evident as he won the New Zealand Young Butcher Award and later, the Under-21 Butcher of the Year. These early experiences laid a strong foundation for a career built on a genuine passion for the craft.
After completing his apprenticeship, Chris’s career took him through various roles, from production through to management. His next major opportunity came with Aspire Foods, where he began as Factory Manager.
Chris’s deep understanding of meat processing and management allowed him to excel, overseeing factory operations, sales, and meat procurement.
After four years he became General Manager, which allowed him to leverage his comprehensive industry knowledge and practical mindset. Chris’s journey is marked by continuous learning and growth of the product and industry.
What motivates Chris each day is the pride he feels in running a business that produces high-quality products. He values the chance to work with a dedicated team and the satisfaction of seeing their products impact various customers. Valuing the diverse and experienced team around him, where mutual respect and a collaborative spirit are key. The journey reflects a deep commitment to both the art and science of meat processing, continually evolving to meet market demands while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
His favourite cut of meat? A simple pork belly of course, with a crispy salted crackling. At Christmas his family has high expectations, but as one to shy away from the spotlight and technicality of carving the Christmas ham, he opts for the boneless option for a much more relaxed festive day with friends and family.
Excellence in New Zealand meat solutions
Aspire Foods is a leading provider of manufactured meat solutions for businesses across New Zealand, specialising in slicing, dicing, and private label manufacturing. The company is renowned for its premium brand, Homestead, which stands out for its high meat content in ham, bacon and smallgoods range and commitment to quality.
Homestead products are crafted to meet the highest standards, with a focus on sourcing and transparency. The brand's label proudly reflects its promise of high quality products, addressing the growing consumer demand for responsibly sourced and high-quality food.
Aspire Foods champions our Homestead Christmas ham range produced from 100% New Zealand pork, supporting local farmers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food production. By balancing traditional craftsmanship with modern industrial efficiency, Aspire Foods ensures that every product maintains exceptional quality while meeting market needs.
As a specialized manufacturer, Aspire Foods is dedicated to delivering top-notch meat solutions, making it a trusted partner for businesses seeking premium, reliable, and ethically sourced meat products.
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