Calling all crafty Kiwis - Stampin’ Up! launches in New Zealand
23 February 2007

Kiwis have long been known for their ingenuity, their penchant for ‘do it yourself’ projects, and artistic flair. Stampin’ Up! is the latest craft craze sweeping America and Australia and is set to take off in New Zealand with the nationwide launch on April 1, 2007.

Stampin’ Up! is an 18 year-old, direct sales company which designs and manufactures an exclusive selection of wood-mounted rubber stamp sets, colour coordinated papers, inks and accessories, used to create everything from personalised cards and invitations, to scrapbooks and home décor ideas.

As well as bringing an innovative new range of craft products to New Zealand, Stampin’ Up! offers an exciting new business model; giving those who enjoy craft the opportunity to earn money while doing what they love.

Stampin’ Up! is the brainchild of Shelli Gardner and her sister, who saw a gap in the craft market and set up their own business from Shelli’s living room in 1988. Despite small beginnings, the company has grown at an astounding rate employing over 500 staff, and 50,000 demonstrators, with an annual turnover of over NZ$340 million.

Shelli believes the company’s success lies in the sisters’ desire to share their creativity with others, while also providing a viable business opportunity for savvy women who want control over their work hours and earnings.

“The uptake in the US and Australia has been phenomenal, people love the fact that they can have fun, learn new things, earn money and make new friends at the same time.”

“This is especially the case for those who live in remote areas, people who have common interests, have young children, or simply those who want to get together with like-minded craft lovers.”

Stampin’ Up! products are not sold in stores but maybe purchased through independent consultants or ‘demonstrators’ who host  functions or visit small groups to run hands-on workshops. Demonstrators can work as often as they wish, earning anything from just enough to cover their own projects, through to full-time salaries.

Following a successful launch in Australia, Shelli says she is excited to be bringing Stampin’ Up! to New Zealand.

“We are thrilled with our entrance into the New Zealand market. This is a move we’ve been working toward for more than two years, and an important part of our global vision for Stampin’ Up!

“We’ve heard New Zealanders are creative and we look forward to seeing their reaction to our products.”

To learn more about the Stampin’ Up! range, or how to become a demonstrator, log on to www.stampinup.com to register online for the free Stampin’ Up! Open Night or phone 0800 202 722.

Sarah Ward               09 632 0524    sarahw@porternovelli.co.nz

Esmeé Dunlop          09 632 0569    esmeed@porternovelli.co.nz