Sep-Oct 2016 Issue | Business View Oceania

51 Supporting Partners Vater Hardware vaterhardware.com Calibre One calibreone.com.au id foundations in South Australia as well as Victoria with a business practice to be proud of. And even though they do some work in other states, Craig is not overly concerned with rapidly expand- ing their business throughout Australia. Moving huge truckloads of equipment is a logistical nightmare and, aside from that, the company already has its hands full in the surrounding re- gions. Of course, there is always the possibility of further expand- ing their manufac- turing prowess and capabilities which would inevitably lead into the wider ex- pansion of the company as a whole. Those goals lie further into the future, however, as Craig wishes to focus else- where for now. One of the main challenges faced by the agricultural manufacturing industry is competing with imported products, mainly from China but from other coun- tries as well. A few years ago, import- ed products were considered inferior in quality and build which led many to buy Australian-made products due to their quality and a desire to support the local community rather than a foreign one. However, the economic landscape has changed dramatically since then. Now, a huge portion of clients are price-driv- en and the free trade agreement has made a huge impact on local manufac- turers who struggle to keep pace with cheaper products. Still, companies like Magnus Australia have a few qualities that cannot be rep- licated or replaced and there will always be clients who appreciate that. That lev- el of personal touch, instant communi- cation, and deep understanding of the agricultural market of their region are elements that only companies such as Magnus Australia possess. Sitting down with their customers and being there for them throughout the entire manu- facturing process is extremely im- portant. The desire to constantly im- prove their services also drives them forward, allowing them to offer better and better products to their clients. The road ahead will be challenging in- deed but Craig is adamant about his company’s direction. His aim is for Mag- nus Australia to keep providing quality products through consistent innovative practices and excellent customer ser- vice. Since agriculture is a seasonal in- dustry, directing their focus in growing areas is keeping everyone on their toes. The constant innovations and quality services are certainly two of the most important elements which will keep Magnus Australia at the forefront for a long time.