The pursuit of innovation often begins with a personal journey. Great leaders aren’t just driven by profit or prestige—they’re fueled by a purpose that transcends the ordinary, a vision to create lasting change. These individuals turn personal challenges into global opportunities, impacting countless lives through their ingenuity and resilience. This cover story is about one such leader whose journey is defined by resilience, innovation, and a passion for transforming lives. From a modest beginning in farming to building a billion-dollar global enterprise, his story is not just about success—it’s about purpose, perseverance, and the power of turning personal challenges into world-changing solutions.
Graeme Clegg, the founder of New Image Group, also known in some circles as the “colostrum king,” Clegg’s path has been anything but conventional. Clegg’s path has been anything but ordinary from shearing more than a million sheep in his youth to pioneering the global colostrum supplement industry. Inspired by the personal tragedies of losing loved ones to cancer, he embarked on a mission to understand and harness the power of nutrition for human health. Today, his company is a beacon of innovation, producing over 60 scientifically validated products and generating over $1 billion in sales of its flagship Alpha Lipid Lifeline colostrum.
Clegg’s journey from a sheep shearer to the founder of a billion-dollar enterprise is an inspiring testament to resilience, vision, and a relentless pursuit of wellness.
Early Life: Planting Seeds of Hard Work
Clegg’s early years were marked by an ambition to carve out a meaningful life. Eager to leave secondary school, he embarked on a farming journey and became an expert sheep shearer under the mentorship of world champion Godfrey Bowen. Over two decades, he sheared over a million sheep and built New Zealand’s largest contract shearing business.
Clegg’s work ethic was unparalleled. From setting a world lamb shearing record in 1968 to planting millions of pine trees across New Zealand, he demonstrated that hard work, innovation, and leadership were the pillars of success. Yet, despite his physical feats, he realized that true wealth lay in “mental muscle.”
The untimely loss of his parents and younger brother to cancer became a pivotal moment in his life. Determined to avoid a similar fate, Clegg delved deep into the science of nutrition and supplements, discovering a passion that would define his career.
The Birth of New Image Group: A Journey of Purpose and Innovation
For Clegg, founding New Image Group was not about building a business—it was about saving his life. As the company’s #1 customer, he candidly shares how his family’s history with cancer inspired him to take proactive control of his health. Realizing he might be genetically predisposed to the disease, he embarked on a mission to discover the transformative power of nutrition. What began as a deeply personal endeavor evolved into a global enterprise dedicated to enhancing lives through health and wellness.
Established in 1984, New Image Group emerged in an era when vitamins and supplements were met with skepticism. Yet, Clegg’s unwavering belief in their potential drove him forward. With limited resources but an unyielding vision, he mastered the art of supplement manufacturing, direct sales, and motivational speaking. His passion for empowering others became the foundation of the company’s philosophy.
The turning point came with the launch of Alpha Lipid Lifeline, a groundbreaking colostrum-based supplement that redefined health and wellness standards. This flagship product marked the beginning of a revolution in the industry, paving the way for a diverse product range—from immune boosters and weight management solutions to natural beauty products.
Today, New Image Group operates four cutting-edge manufacturing facilities in Auckland and generates over $1 million in daily revenue. With a network of more than 300,000 independent members spanning 22 countries, the company is a testament to the power of vision and perseverance. Clegg often reflects on the blessings that have come from his journey. His initial determination to safeguard his own health has transformed into a legacy that empowers countless individuals worldwide.
This year, the company celebrated its 40th anniversary, a feat few companies in the industry have achieved. Around 230,000 members tuned in and watched the live broadcast online. Moreover, Graeme was recently bestowed with the prestigious World Leader Of The Year award at the House of Lords London. It was a notable feat, considering the award was previously won by the likes of Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos.
| Website | http://www.newimage.world |
| Industry | Wellness and Fitness Services |
| Headquarters | Mangere Bridge, Auckland |
| Founded | 1984 |
Driving Innovation through Colostrum: A Commitment to Health and Longevity
Clegg’s journey into colostrum research began in 1993, driven by his farming background and the remarkable benefits of colostrum in animal health. Collaborating with dairy experts, he developed Lifeline, a powdered shake fortified with colostrum. The introduction of the patented Alpha Lipid liposome delivery system further protected colostrum’s bioactive properties during digestion, setting New Image Group apart in the health industry.
The company recently expanded its innovation by acquiring a spray-dry powder dairy plant at the Ruakura Research Centre in Hamilton, strengthening its commitment to leading the world in colostrum development.
Key Innovations
- Alpha Lipid liposome delivery system, enhancing colostrum’s bioactive effects.
- New spray-dry powder dairy plant, advancing research and development.
Clegg believes colostrum is essential to counter modern health threats like toxins, poor diets, and weakened immune systems. He asserts that it can rejuvenate the body’s immune functions, reprogramming the “immune software” and offering benefits in immune function, anti-aging, and overall wellness.
At 85, Clegg remains active and fit, confident that with colostrum supplements, humans can live vibrant lives well into their 120s. “Where there is purpose, there is life,” he says, encouraging others to embrace vitality and avoid the pitfalls of retirement. Through New Image Group’s pioneering work, Clegg continues to transform health and longevity.
Navigating Challenges and Expanding Globally
Clegg’s entrepreneurial journey was not without its hurdles. The Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s tested the company’s resilience. Despite facing financial losses, Clegg’s commitment to his partners and customers ensured that New Image Group emerged stronger.
His vision extended beyond New Zealand’s borders. Recognizing Asia’s potential, he forged lasting partnerships with leading companies like China’s Bioshine Dairy Company and Yili Group. Today, the Asian market is a cornerstone of New Image’s success, with its goat milk infant formula earning over $100 million annually.
Leadership Philosophy and Mentorship
A natural leader, Clegg’s approach has always been to lead by example. During his shearing days, his presence would boost daily outputs by 20-30%. This philosophy carried over to New Image Group, where he emphasized attention to detail, innovation, and “possibility thinking.”
Clegg has also been instrumental in developing training programs for New Image’s independent members. These programs, coupled with his motivational speaking, have empowered thousands to build successful careers in direct sales. Exceptional leaders within the network earn as much as $1 million annually, a testament to the company’s robust support system.
Transforming the Direct Selling Industry
Clegg’s remarkable reputation and success in the direct selling industry earned him a prestigious seat on the CEO Council of the World Federation of Direct Sales. This influential organization sets the global standards and ethical code for a dynamic industry that generates nearly $200 billion in annual sales. Beyond its impressive economic contribution, the direct selling sector empowers individuals—particularly women—by fostering entrepreneurship and creating countless small businesses worldwide.
In his role on the council, Clegg has worked tirelessly to bridge gaps between the industry and governments across the globe. He has advocated for better recognition and understanding of direct selling’s transformative potential. Notably, during a recent engagement in Shanghai, he participated in high-level ministerial discussions aimed at easing regulatory restrictions on the industry in China.
Clegg’s career is steeped in milestones that have paved the way for others. He was a vital part of the New Zealand Trade Mission that achieved a historic free trade agreement with China in 2008. Years earlier, his leadership saw New Image International become the first multi-level marketing (MLM) company approved to operate in Singapore in 1992. These achievements underscore his legacy as a trailblazer committed to advancing opportunities in the direct selling arena.
The Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of robust immune health, leading to record-breaking sales for New Image Group. Clegg notes that “all disease and even aging result from a dysfunctional immune system.” This heightened awareness has driven demand for supplements, cementing the company’s position as a leader in the wellness industry.
A Visionary in Health and Longevity
At “40 plus 40,” Clegg remains a bundle of energy and an ambassador for wellness and longevity. His quest to defy genetic predispositions to cancer has fueled his passion for helping others achieve better health.
Through international conferences on anti-aging and stem cell research, Clegg has explored cutting-edge solutions to degenerative diseases. His belief in prevention over reaction drives the company’s innovative product pipeline.
“We have exciting new products under development,” he shares. “The global health system has failed by being reactive. At New Image, we focus on supporting the body’s natural functions to prevent illness and enhance quality of life.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of New Image Group
New Image Group continues to break new ground as the pioneer of the global colostrum industry, solidifying its reputation with its expanding product portfolio, cutting-edge research, and commitment to quality. Operating four specialized manufacturing plants, the company produces exceptional products and provides packaging solutions for multinational clients, showcasing its versatility and operational excellence.
The direct sales model remains at the heart of New Image Group’s growth strategy, cultivating meaningful customer relationships that ensure loyalty and repeat business. With over 1.5 million daily users of its supplements and beauty products, New Image has transformed into a global movement deeply interconnected with its customer base.
This year, New Image achieved significant milestones, including the opening of its Seoul, Korea, office in November. The event, graced by the support of New Zealand’s current Prime Minister, marked a momentous step in the company’s global expansion journey. Following this success, the company is preparing to establish its presence in India, with a flagship office set to launch in Mumbai. This growing network of offices offers members unparalleled opportunities to build international connections and earn multi-currency incomes, reflecting New Image’s vision of empowering entrepreneurs worldwide.
In 2023, New Image further diversified its product offerings with the acquisition of Nutrimetics, a renowned beauty company previously owned by Tupperware. This acquisition seamlessly complements the company’s philosophy that beauty begins from within, significantly expanding the range of products available to customers and revitalizing Nutrimetics’ presence in key markets. With a forward-thinking approach and a robust global strategy, New Image Group is poised to redefine industry standards and continue its legacy as a leader in health, wellness, and beauty.
Legacy of Innovation
Clegg’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and an unyielding commitment to purpose. From the shearer’s shed to the global stage, he has transformed lives, championed wellness, and built a legacy of innovation.
“My journey has been one of learning, resilience, and belief in the power of possibilities,” Clegg reflects. “At New Image Group, we are not just creating products; we are creating a future where wellness and longevity are accessible to all.”
As one of the Most Innovative Business Leaders to Watch Out in 2024-2025, Graeme Clegg’s story is a beacon of inspiration for entrepreneurs and dreamers worldwide. His legacy is a reminder that with vision, determination, and heart, anything is possible.
Key Takeaways from Graeme Clegg’s Journey
- Turning Adversity into Innovation: Graeme Clegg’s personal losses fueled his mission to revolutionize health and wellness, demonstrating how challenges can inspire transformative solutions.
- Trailblazer in Colostrum Research: By pioneering the use of colostrum in nutritional supplements, Clegg established New Image Group as a global leader, delivering over $1 billion in sales of its flagship product.
- Unwavering Work Ethic and Vision: From shearing over a million sheep to building a billion-dollar enterprise, Clegg’s journey exemplifies the power of resilience, hard work, and forward-thinking leadership.
- Empowering Others Through Direct Sales: Clegg’s mentorship and innovative training programs have empowered thousands globally, creating a robust network of independent entrepreneurs.
- Focus on Preventive Health: With cutting-edge research and a commitment to enhancing immune health, Clegg’s vision emphasizes prevention over reaction, setting new standards in the wellness industry.
