A longstanding supporter of the New Zealand Rugby League community - Autex Industries - has confirmed it will be a joint owner of the Vodafone Warriors, alongside the Carlaw Heritage Trust.
Autex Industries CEO Mark Robinson confirmed the business will own a 33% stake in the Vodafone Warriors, with Carlaw Heritage Trust holding a 67% share of the NRL club.
"This is the opportunity of a lifetime for Autex," said Robinson.
"It’s not about ego or owning something, it’s about the people. We’ve always looked after our community and our own backyard. Rugby league and our role in it is just part of that. This is about doing the right thing and doing it properly for the good of the players, the good of the game, and the good of the future of the Vodafone Warriors.”
This is about doing the right thing and doing it properly for the good of the players, the good of the game and the good of the future of the Vodafone Warriors
The successful bid marks a new chapter in the continued support of New Zealand rugby league and its sporting community by both the business and the Robinson family, who have backed participation and competition in the sport for more than 30 years.
David Robinson, the founder of Autex Industries and father of Mark Robinson, had a passion for rugby league and under his leadership, Autex became the first New Zealand business to sponsor a national sports team, investing $100,000 in the Kiwis back in 1979.
In 2015, Autex donated Autex House - a home away from home for up-and-coming young Warriors players - which provides players with a high-performing environment and structure around daily routine, ensuring players focus on health, nutrition, preparation, rest and recovery during the season. This year alone, 19 players have benefited from Autex House.
“We are committed to fostering home-grown talent and building stronger rugby league sporting communities on New Zealand soil," he said.
"Investing in the nation’s NRL team is a natural step for Autex and we look forward to supporting and empowering CEO Cameron George as he continues to positively lead the Vodafone Warriors forward through the current season and the seasons ahead.”
We look forward to supporting and empowering CEO Cameron George as he continues to positively lead the Vodafone Warriors forward
Beyond Autex’s historical support of NZ rugby league, there is also a familial connection between the Autex CEO and McGregor – their respective fathers both partnered to broker the original sponsorship of the national rugby league team back in the seventies.
In addition to established networks of support in grassroots rugby league in New Zealand, Autex Industries also has a strong business footprint both here and across the Tasman, with operations in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane. The business also operates in North America, the United Kingdom, and South East Asia.
For more information about Autex Industries, visit www.autexindustries.com
