Watties

Watties is a New Zealand food processing company, a subsidiary of J. Wattie N.Z. Limited. Founded in 1934 by James Wattie, the company initially focused on canning fruits and vegetables. Over the decades, Watties expanded its product range to include frozen foods, sauces, soups, and baby food. It is one of New Zealand's largest food manufacturers, employing a significant number of people across its various production facilities.

The company's early growth was fueled by innovations in food preservation and its commitment to using locally sourced produce. Watties became a household name in New Zealand, with many of its products becoming staples in Kiwi kitchens. The iconic Watties tins, often featuring images of the produce they contained, are a familiar sight.

In 1992, Watties was acquired by H.J. Heinz Company, becoming part of a global food conglomerate. Despite the acquisition, the Watties brand has largely retained its identity and strong market presence in New Zealand and Australia. The company continues to emphasize its New Zealand heritage and its connection to local agriculture. Watties products are widely available in supermarkets throughout New Zealand and are also exported to other countries.