Having been in the gift and homewares industry since 1978, Cocco Corporation owner Nigel Treliving decided it was time to give back.
Launching a newly designed premises as well as a new range called Rose during a small get together recently, Treliving said the industry needed something a little different.
“To my knowledge few Australian wholesalers and producers have ever invested in trying to inspire the retail industry by creating an inspirational environment where design, merchandising and a friendly welcoming place merge [and where] clients and staff can commercially cohabit and discuss business in this welcoming part of Australia,” he explains.
“We had a small cross section of Adelaide retailers, suppliers and wholesalers visit my new distribution premises of Maine Beach―a new start up business launched in 2010―my new home and additional factory (on two acres) that I have either built , renovated or enlarged.”
With his business based in McLaren Vale (Adelaide), Treliving says the council supported his investment as it would bring employment to the region as well as something other than wine.
“It represents about three years of planning and development, changing of zoning use in the heart of one of the greatest rural wine areas in Australia, only 40 minutes from Adelaide Airport in a beautiful Mediterranean climate full of magnificent old gum trees, beaches and adventure.
“I have seen this venture as a means to keep working―government loves this as it relieves the burden on its social infrastructure―general overhead costs are marginally cheaper to run a business from (rents and costs of living are low) and the concept is working for me generally because technology allows you to do this.
“Business is good, because I am keeping it small, relative and growing organically. I am starting a new concept from the region where my business career in this industry began,” he adds.
By Marion Gerritsen
