AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MATT JOYCE OF MICHAEL JOYCE NZ: CELEBRATING QUALITY AND LUXURY

Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today, Matt. Can you start by telling us about the history of Michael Joyce NZ and how it has evolved over the years?

It’s a pleasure to be here. Michael Joyce NZ was founded by my father, Michael Joyce, over 35 years ago. What began as a passion for quality and luxurious European homeware has now become a well-established, third-generation family business. My Mother, my sister and I took over the reins after our father passed away, and we’ve continued his legacy of importing top-quality European gift and homeware brands. We’ve stayed true to our roots by ensuring our products are not only beautiful but also sustainable and long-lasting.

What makes Michael Joyce NZ stand out in the luxury goods market?

Our commitment to quality and sustainability is what sets us apart. We travel to Europe each year to handpick the most exquisite and luxurious products. We focus on sourcing from reputable manufacturers who have a strong design ethos and use premium materials. Our product range is designed to be reliable, attractive, and innovative, ensuring that every item is a pleasure to use and own. Additionally, we prioritize brands that are world-friendly and sustainable, reflecting our commitment to responsible business practices.

Can you share some insights into your selection process when sourcing new products?

Absolutely. When my sister and I and now my wife and I travel to Europe, we look for brands that align with our values of quality, sustainability, and design excellence. We visit trade shows, meet with manufacturers, and even visit their production facilities to ensure they meet our high standards. We look for products that not only look good but also have a story to tell—whether it’s about the craftsmanship, the materials used, or the sustainability practices in place. It’s important to us that our products are something our customers can cherish for years to come.

How do you ensure that your products remain innovative and relevant in a rapidly changing market?

Staying innovative and relevant requires a deep understanding of market trends and customer preferences. We invest a lot of time in research and attend international trade shows to stay ahead of the curve. We also maintain close relationships with our manufacturers and encourage them to push the boundaries of design and functionality. Additionally, we listen to feedback from our customers and retail stockists, which helps us to continuously refine our product range. Innovation, for us, means combining timeless design with modern functionality and sustainability.

Michael Joyce NZ has a strong focus on sustainability. Can you elaborate on some of the sustainable practices your company and your brands implement?

Sustainability is at the core of what we do. We ensure that the brands we represent use eco-friendly materials and sustainable production methods. For instance, many of our brands use recycled or sustainably sourced materials and have processes in place to minimize their environmental impact. In our own operations, we focus on reducing waste and energy consumption. Our warehouse and showroom in Grey Lynn, Auckland, are designed to be energy-efficient, and we use sustainable packaging materials wherever possible. It’s a continuous journey, but we’re committed to making a positive impact on the planet.

What are some of the challenges you face in running a family business, and how do you overcome them?

Running a family business comes with its unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to balancing family dynamics with business decisions. Communication is key—we ensure that we have open and honest discussions about the direction of the business and any issues that arise. Another challenge is staying competitive in a market that is constantly evolving. We overcome this by being flexible and adaptive, always looking for new opportunities and ways to innovate. Ultimately, our shared passion for the business and our commitment to our father’s legacy keeps us motivated and united.

What are your future aspirations for Michael Joyce NZ?

Our goal is to continue growing our presence in New Zealand and to expand our product range with more exclusive, high-quality European brands. We aim to deepen our commitment to sustainability and introduce more eco-friendly products to our portfolio. We also want to strengthen our relationships with our retail partners and provide even better service to our customers. Ultimately, we hope to continue being a trusted name in luxury homeware, known for quality, innovation, and sustainability.

Finally, what advice would you give to other aspiring entrepreneurs in the luxury goods sector?

My advice would be to stay true to your values and passion. Quality should never be compromised, and sustainability should be a priority. Build strong relationships with your suppliers and customers, and always be open to feedback. Stay adaptable and be willing to embrace change and innovation. Most importantly, remember that success in the luxury goods sector is about offering products that not only meet but exceed customer expectations in terms of quality, design, and sustainability.

Thank you, Matt, for sharing your insights and the story of Michael Joyce NZ. It’s inspiring to see how you continue to honour your father’s legacy while driving the business forward with such passion and dedication.

Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure to share our journey, and I look forward to what the future holds for Michael Joyce NZ.

michaeljoyce.co.nz