Unveiling The Ownership: Who Controls Whitestone Cheese Today?

Whitestone Cheese, a renowned New Zealand artisanal cheese producer, is owned by the Evans family, who have been at the helm since its inception in 1987. Founded by Bob and Janette Evans, the company began as a small, family-run operation in Oamaru, Otago, and has since grown into a celebrated brand known for its award-winning cheeses. Today, the business is managed by their son Simon Evans, who continues to uphold the family’s commitment to traditional cheesemaking techniques and sustainable practices. Whitestone Cheese remains a testament to the Evans family’s passion for crafting high-quality, handcrafted cheeses that reflect the unique flavors of the region.

Explore related products

The Beginner's Guide to Cheese Making: Easy Recipes and Lessons to Make Your Own Handcrafted Cheeses

$8.8 $15.99

The Art of Natural Cheesemaking: Using Traditional, Non-Industrial Methods and Raw Ingredients to Make the World's Best Cheeses

$26.89 $34.95

Fermentaholics DIY Fresh Cheese Making Kit - Ricotta, Mozzarella, Burrata, Paneer, Cottage Cheese, etc. - Includes Rennet for Cheese Making, Cheese Salt, Citric Acid, Cheese Cloth, & Recipe Booklet

$29.99

Make Your Own Cheese: Self-Sufficient Recipes for Cheddar, Parmesan, Romano, Cream Cheese, Mozzarella, Cottage Cheese, and Feta (The Backyard Renaissance Series)

$5.95

Home Cheese Making: Recipes for 75 Homemade Cheeses

$23.28

A Field Guide to Cheese: How to Select, Enjoy, and Pair the World's Best Cheeses

$23.53 $28

Company Ownership: Whitestone Cheese is owned by the Evans family, who founded it in 1987

The Evans family's ownership of Whitestone Cheese is a testament to the enduring legacy of family-run businesses in the artisanal food industry. Since its founding in 1987, the company has remained under the stewardship of the Evans family, who have meticulously preserved the traditional cheese-making techniques that set their products apart. This continuity of ownership has allowed Whitestone Cheese to maintain its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and the unique flavors that have garnered a loyal customer base. Unlike many businesses that succumb to corporate takeovers or lose their identity through generational shifts, Whitestone Cheese stands as a rare example of sustained family ownership, where the founders' vision remains intact.

Understanding the Evans family's role in Whitestone Cheese offers valuable insights for consumers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. For consumers, knowing the company's ownership history adds a layer of trust and authenticity to the brand. It reassures buyers that the cheese they purchase is crafted with the same care and expertise that defined the company's early days. For entrepreneurs, the Evans family's story serves as a blueprint for building a lasting business. Key takeaways include the importance of staying true to one's vision, fostering strong customer relationships, and prioritizing quality over rapid expansion. These principles have not only sustained Whitestone Cheese but also positioned it as a benchmark in the artisanal cheese market.

A comparative analysis of Whitestone Cheese and other family-owned businesses reveals the advantages of long-term family ownership. While many companies struggle to balance tradition and innovation, the Evans family has successfully navigated this challenge by integrating modern practices without compromising their heritage. For instance, they have adopted sustainable farming methods and expanded their product line to meet evolving consumer preferences, all while retaining the core values that define their brand. This balance is a direct result of the family's deep-rooted connection to the business, which allows for quicker decision-making and a more personalized approach to customer engagement.

For those interested in supporting family-owned businesses or replicating their success, the Whitestone Cheese model offers practical guidance. Start by prioritizing quality and consistency in your product or service, as these are the cornerstones of customer loyalty. Invest in building a strong brand identity that reflects your values and story, as this differentiates you from competitors. Additionally, maintain transparency about your ownership and history, as consumers increasingly value authenticity and ethical practices. By following these steps, you can create a business that not only thrives but also leaves a lasting legacy, much like the Evans family has done with Whitestone Cheese.

Founder Background: Simon and Bobbi Evans started the company in Oamaru, New Zealand

The story of Whitestone Cheese begins with a bold decision: Simon and Bobbi Evans, a couple with a passion for artisanal craftsmanship, chose the quaint town of Oamaru, New Zealand, as the birthplace of their venture. This wasn’t merely a business move; it was a deliberate alignment of their vision with the region’s natural resources. Oamaru’s rich pasturelands and pristine water sources provided the ideal foundation for crafting premium cheese, while the town’s heritage buildings offered a picturesque setting for their operation. Their choice of location underscores a key principle for aspiring entrepreneurs: success often hinges on leveraging local strengths to create something uniquely authentic.

Simon and Bobbi’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. Transitioning from hobbyists to professional cheesemakers required meticulous attention to detail, from mastering traditional techniques to adhering to stringent food safety standards. They invested time in learning the science of cheese—understanding how factors like humidity, temperature, and aging times affect flavor and texture. For those looking to replicate their success, a practical tip is to start small, experimenting with home cheesemaking kits before scaling up. This phased approach allows for learning without overwhelming costs or risks.

What sets the Evans apart is their commitment to sustainability and community. They source milk from local dairy farms, reducing their carbon footprint while supporting Oamaru’s economy. This farm-to-table ethos resonates with today’s consumers, who increasingly value transparency and ethical practices. For businesses aiming to emulate this model, a comparative analysis reveals that integrating sustainability into core operations—not just as an afterthought—can differentiate a brand in a crowded market. Whitestone Cheese’s success demonstrates that profitability and responsibility aren’t mutually exclusive.

Descriptively, the Evans’ story is one of transformation—turning raw milk into award-winning cheese, and a small-town dream into a nationally recognized brand. Their hands-on approach, from curdling the milk to hand-wrapping each wheel, infuses their products with a personal touch that machines can’t replicate. This artisanal craftsmanship isn’t just about taste; it’s about telling a story that consumers can connect with. For food entrepreneurs, the takeaway is clear: authenticity and passion are ingredients that can’t be outsourced.

Finally, Simon and Bobbi’s legacy extends beyond their cheese. They’ve become mentors to other artisans in Oamaru, fostering a community of creativity and innovation. Their story serves as a persuasive argument for the power of local entrepreneurship. By staying true to their roots and continuously refining their craft, they’ve built more than a business—they’ve created a cultural landmark. For anyone pondering who owns Whitestone Cheese, the answer lies not just in legal ownership but in the Evans’ enduring impact on their craft, community, and industry.

Current Leadership: Simon Evans remains the Managing Director, overseeing operations and growth

Simon Evans’ continued tenure as Managing Director of Whitestone Cheese is a testament to the company’s commitment to stability and strategic growth. Since assuming the role, Evans has steered the company through evolving market dynamics, ensuring that Whitestone remains a leader in the artisanal cheese industry. His leadership style, characterized by a blend of innovation and tradition, has been pivotal in maintaining the brand’s reputation for quality while expanding its market reach. Under his guidance, Whitestone has not only preserved its heritage but also embraced modern production techniques and sustainability practices, setting a benchmark for competitors.

One of Evans’ key strategies has been to foster a culture of continuous improvement within the organization. By investing in employee training and adopting cutting-edge technology, he has streamlined operations without compromising the handcrafted nature of Whitestone’s products. For instance, the introduction of automated aging systems has enhanced efficiency while preserving the unique flavor profiles that customers expect. This balance between innovation and tradition is a hallmark of Evans’ leadership, ensuring that Whitestone remains both relevant and authentic in a rapidly changing industry.

A closer look at Evans’ approach reveals a focus on long-term sustainability, both environmentally and economically. He has spearheaded initiatives to reduce the company’s carbon footprint, such as implementing energy-efficient practices in production facilities and sourcing local ingredients whenever possible. These efforts not only align with consumer demand for eco-conscious products but also position Whitestone as a forward-thinking brand. Evans’ ability to anticipate trends and adapt proactively has been instrumental in securing the company’s future growth.

For businesses seeking to emulate Whitestone’s success, there are actionable lessons to be drawn from Evans’ leadership. First, prioritize a dual focus on innovation and tradition—modernize processes without losing sight of what makes your brand unique. Second, invest in sustainability initiatives that resonate with both your values and your customers’ expectations. Finally, cultivate a culture of continuous improvement to stay agile in a competitive market. Evans’ tenure demonstrates that strong leadership is not just about maintaining the status quo but about evolving strategically to meet the demands of the future.

In practical terms, companies can follow Evans’ example by conducting regular audits of their operations to identify areas for improvement. For instance, a small-scale cheese producer might start by assessing energy usage in their aging rooms and exploring solar-powered alternatives. Similarly, offering workshops or apprenticeships can empower employees to contribute to innovation while preserving artisanal techniques. By adopting these practices, businesses can achieve the kind of balanced growth that has defined Simon Evans’ leadership at Whitestone Cheese.

Explore related products

Who Moved My Cheese?: An A-Mazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life

$9.03 $27

Don't ask "Who Moved My Cheese?": Make Your Own Change

$11.99 $11.99

How to make Vegan Cheese: Easy Recipes and Lessons in Making Your own Vegetable Rennet With Clear Doses and Ingredients

$10

The "I Hate Cottage Cheese" Recipe Book: 150+ Easy, Delicious, and Flavorful High-Protein Cottage Cheese Recipes for Healthier Living, Blank Pages to Create Your Own

$9.99 $9.99

Cheese: A Connoisseur's Guide to the World's Best

$24.66 $35

Cheese For Dummies

$12.99

Family Involvement: The Evans family actively participates in production and business decisions

The Evans family’s hands-on approach to Whitestone Cheese is more than a tradition—it’s a strategic advantage. Each family member brings unique expertise to the table, from Simon Evans’ mastery of cheesemaking techniques to Bob Evans’ financial acumen. This division of labor ensures that every aspect of production and business strategy is informed by deep, generational knowledge. For instance, Simon’s decision to experiment with raw milk cheeses in the early 2000s wasn’t just a creative whim; it was a calculated risk backed by decades of understanding local dairy trends. This blend of innovation and tradition is a direct result of their active involvement.

To replicate this level of family engagement in your own business, start by identifying each member’s strengths. Assign roles based on skill, not just availability—a common mistake in family-run enterprises. For example, if one family member excels in marketing, let them lead branding efforts, even if it means stepping back from production. The Evans family’s success lies in their ability to trust each other’s expertise, allowing for swift decision-making without micromanagement. A practical tip: hold weekly family meetings to align on goals and address conflicts before they escalate.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Evans family’s involvement is their ability to balance emotional ties with professional boundaries. They treat Whitestone Cheese as a legacy, not just a livelihood, which fosters a long-term mindset. However, this can also lead to challenges, such as difficulty separating personal from business disputes. To mitigate this, establish clear communication protocols. For instance, use formal language during business discussions and reserve casual conversations for non-work settings. The Evans family’s approach demonstrates that emotional investment can be a strength, provided it’s channeled constructively.

Comparing Whitestone Cheese to other family-owned businesses highlights the rarity of their model. While many families struggle to transition leadership across generations, the Evanses have seamlessly integrated younger members into key roles. Their secret? Early involvement. Children are introduced to the business from a young age, not as heirs, but as contributors. For example, Simon’s daughter began assisting in the aging room at 16, learning the nuances of humidity control and flavor development. This gradual immersion ensures continuity and fosters a sense of ownership. If you’re planning succession, start training the next generation now—even small tasks can build invaluable experience.

Finally, the Evans family’s active participation serves as a blueprint for sustainability in artisanal industries. By staying involved in both production and strategy, they maintain the authenticity that sets Whitestone Cheese apart. For businesses aiming to emulate this, prioritize transparency and adaptability. Share decision-making processes with your team, whether family or employees, to build trust and collective buy-in. The Evanses prove that family involvement isn’t just about preserving heritage—it’s about evolving it. Their story is a reminder that the most successful businesses are those where passion and purpose are shared across generations.

Ownership Changes: No major ownership changes have occurred since its founding

Whitestone Cheese, a beloved New Zealand brand, has maintained a remarkable consistency in its ownership structure since its inception. This stability is unusual in the dynamic food industry, where mergers, acquisitions, and leadership shifts are common. Founded by Bob and Anne Berry in 1986, the company remains a family-owned business, with their son Simon Berry now at the helm as Managing Director. This continuity has allowed Whitestone to preserve its artisanal ethos, crafting award-winning cheeses that reflect the unique terroir of North Otago.

From an analytical perspective, the absence of major ownership changes can be attributed to the Berry family’s commitment to their vision. Unlike corporations driven by shareholder demands or short-term profits, Whitestone’s family ownership fosters long-term thinking. This approach has enabled the company to invest in sustainable practices, such as using locally sourced milk and traditional cheesemaking techniques, without the pressure to scale rapidly or compromise quality. The result is a product line that resonates with consumers seeking authenticity and traceability.

For businesses considering a similar ownership model, the Whitestone example offers valuable lessons. First, prioritize family succession planning early. Simon Berry’s seamless transition into leadership underscores the importance of grooming the next generation while maintaining brand values. Second, resist the temptation to over-expand. Whitestone’s growth has been deliberate, focusing on quality over quantity, which has strengthened its market position. Lastly, cultivate a strong brand identity tied to heritage and craftsmanship—a strategy that builds customer loyalty and differentiates the product in a crowded market.

Comparatively, companies that undergo frequent ownership changes often face challenges in maintaining brand integrity. New owners may introduce cost-cutting measures or shift focus away from core values, alienating loyal customers. Whitestone’s unwavering ownership, however, has allowed it to evolve organically, introducing innovative products like the Windsor Blue and Creamy Havarti while staying true to its roots. This balance between tradition and innovation is a testament to the benefits of stable leadership.

In practical terms, consumers can support family-owned businesses like Whitestone by prioritizing locally made, artisanal products. By doing so, they contribute to the preservation of traditional crafts and sustainable practices. For aspiring entrepreneurs, the Whitestone story serves as a reminder that slow, intentional growth can lead to enduring success. In an era of rapid corporate turnover, the Berry family’s stewardship of Whitestone Cheese stands as a rare and inspiring example of continuity and purpose.

Frequently asked questions