By BRIDGET COOK
A LYNBROOK business has been recognised for its export performance despite the challenging global economic conditions.
Worldpoly, whose head office is in Lynbrook, won the Minerals and Energy category at the prestigious Governor of Victoria Export Awards at Government House this month.
The business has led the polyethylene pipe and fittings industry for more than 50 years and now exports to 90 countries worldwide.
Worldpoly has supplied equipment for the mines in the deserts of South America, to fish farms in Malaysia, to freeze-resistant welds in Antarctica and the technical requirements of Germany.
Sales manager Nikita Hall said Worldpoly was extremely proud to be the recipient of the award.
“This award proves that manufacturing locally, and not solely in lower cost countries, is still not only plausible, but achievable and profitable,” she said.
“Although manufacturing costs are higher here, the end product is of an outstanding quality and the market appreciates this.”
Ms Hall said they still remained a tough competitor.
“With the low labour and manufacturing costs in countries like China, India and Vietnam, the majority of Australian exporters have moved their manufacturing operations overseas, or ceased manufacturing completely,” she said.
“Although the cost of manufacturing in Australia is significantly higher, the quality of the products made here is fantastic.
“Those companies still manufacturing locally are tough competition, especially in the minerals and energy sector.
“Worldpoly has and will always be an Australian company, but having support worldwide is of the utmost importance for strong export results.”
Minister for Employment and Trade Louise Asher said at the awards ceremony the companies had been rewarded for their success in export despite global economic conditions and a strong Australian dollar.
“I applaud the industry category winners and commendees, which were recognised as Victoria’s top export leaders,” she said.
“These companies are managed by inventive businesspeople, who are taking their products and services to new and expanding markets. They reflect the strong, outward looking business culture that flourishes in Victoria.
“The awards they receive recognise the contribution made by all Victorian exporters, which last year exported goods and services worth $34 billion dollars to more than 200 countries around the world.”
