Commenced making comb foundation by the old original dipping method (“EBS” was born)
The Ecroyd family has been involved in the supply of beekeeping equipment and honey products since Stuart’s grandfather started making comb foundation in 1913. Stuart’s father, Kevin Ecroyd took over the company from his father in 1958, and was involved until 1987 when Stuart took over part of the company.
Beetek, a specialist manufacturer of plastic hive wear, was founded in the early 2000's by Ray Duncan, and acquired by Dave Wrathall in early 2013. Beetek was the leader in the supply of plastic products into the industry, and operated from South Auckland until the merger.
The merged company, Ecrotek, combines the strengths of both businesses to create the biggest supplier of beekeeping equipment in New Zealand. Ecrotek has warehousing and distribution in both the North and South Islands, and beekeepers are able to purchase products from the retail stores in both locations, and through this website.
Commenced making comb foundation by the old original dipping method (“EBS” was born)
Resumed manufacture of foundation by the much improved Dittmar process, or slab method
Installed latest Weed Process for manufacture of comb foundation
After finding old method of wax refining quite inadequate, installed filtration method of refining, with a much improved product. Bleaching of beeswax attempted at about this time, and first sale made to a local chemist
Kevin Ecroyd started working with his father in the business
(May) The Alliance Bee Supplies Co Ltd was purchased in Dunedin
(Dec) The Alliance Bee Supplies was moved to Sawyers Arms Rd, CHCH
A Ecroyd & Son Ltd was moved from Thornton St to Sawyers Arms Rd.
Kevin took over the running of the company from his father
Stuart started helping & working at the factory in weekends and holidays
At age 19 Stuart joined the family business full time in administration
Beeswax and Woodware divisions were sold & moved
Stuart Ecroyd Bee Supplies started in Sheffield Crescent
Ray Duncan establishes Beetek to manufacture plastic hive ware for the NZ beekeeping industry
Name changed to Ecroyd Beekeeping Supplies Ltd
Stuart attended his 30th consecutive Annual NBA Beekeepers Conference.
Ecroyd Beekeeping Supplies Ltd celebrates its centenary
Ecrotek establishes a dedicated in-house innovation and research team
Ecrotek establishes itself in Australia & the VitaHive bee nutrition range was launched.
humm Honey Testing launched in NZ in partnership with Gribbles Scientific
Ecrotek launches BioForme, a durable plant based beekeeping frame
BioForme wins Roy Patterson Memorial Trophy for Innovation
