On Wednesday night, they got their redemption and were named company of the year in the scheme’s national final held virtually.

The three year 13 pupils — chief executive Robert Donohoe (17), chief financial officer Abby Green (18) and production director Alex Livingstone (18) — founded the business early last year, importing barberries from Iran to create a supplement powder.

The berries, high in antioxidants and vitamins, had not previously been used commercially in New Zealand, the team said.

The team took the judges’ advice from last year which was to expand the credibility and professionalism of the business.

"Ever since then we have been so motivated to try even harder this year," Robert said.

The trio were "over the moon" with win.

Abalro also won the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand accounting and finance award.

The team was awarded $3000, as well as a $5000 Massey University business school scholarship for each director, for its win.

At the start of this year, Abalro’s products had only been stocked in one Dunedin store, but they were now stocked in 81 health stores and pharmacies throughout New Zealand as well as online.

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