On 15 July, more than 30 business leaders, professionals and academics came together at New Brew Bar for the inaugural Pints of Business, hosted by Business North Harbour in partnership with Massey Business School.

Designed to encourage open discussion and peer learning, the event brought participants together in small groups to explore the challenges, opportunities and trends shaping businesses today. While every organisation represented was unique, several common themes emerged across the conversations.

Five Themes from the Room

1. Cost and Margin Pressure Continues

Businesses are navigating rising costs across insurance, freight, compliance, staffing and daily operations, while also facing increased competition from larger organisations and offshore providers. Many participants discussed the need to review efficiencies, strengthen value propositions and make smarter commercial decisions.

2. Smarter Growth Means Greater Focus

A recurring theme was the importance of prioritisation. Participants reflected on the need to regularly review products, services and activities to ensure resources are being directed towards work that delivers the greatest value and return.

3. AI Is Creating Opportunities — With Caution

Artificial Intelligence featured heavily in discussions, with businesses already using AI tools for content creation, administration, marketing, research and reporting. However, attendees also highlighted the importance of data security, accuracy and maintaining human oversight when adopting new technologies.

4. People Remain the Greatest Asset

Despite advances in technology, people and workplace culture remain critical to business success. Conversations focused on recruitment, retention, skills development, flexible work practices and the importance of keeping teams engaged and connected.

5. Strong Customer Relationships Matter More Than Ever

Participants emphasised the value of staying close to customers through regular communication, networking and face-to-face engagement. Building meaningful

relationships continues to be one of the most effective ways to identify opportunities and respond to changing market needs.

Practical Takeaways

The evening generated several actionable ideas that businesses can apply immediately, including:

· Reviewing key cost areas and identifying opportunities to improve efficiency.

· Using data to assess low-value or low-margin activities.

· Exploring low-risk AI applications with appropriate quality controls.

· Ensuring technology enhances, rather than replaces, human judgement.

· Creating more intentional customer and stakeholder touchpoints.

· Learning from peers and sharing experiences to uncover new solutions.

Looking Ahead

One of the highlights of the evening was the willingness of participants to openly share experiences, challenges and practical lessons. The discussions reinforced that while businesses may operate in different sectors, many are facing similar pressures and opportunities.

A big thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the conversation, and to Massey Business School for partnering with us on this successful inaugural event.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the next Pints of Business. 🍻