The term Australian-made is loosely thrown about by brands and companies of all sizes.
Research in 2020 shows 93% of consumers say they would prefer to choose brands designed by Australians and made in Australia.
Brands are seeing a shift in consumers being conscious of what they buy and wanting more information like where a product is made before deciding on a purchase.
In 1990, when owners Dave and Margaret Devoy started designing air conditioning ducting out of their Morley garage, the couple wanted to control the quality and efficiency of all components of their product, which is why they have worked hard to ensure they are made locally.
Dave says it’s important for not only the energy and utilities sector, but all industries to be investing in Australian manufacturing and design.
“We invest in keeping onshore design and manufacturing alive because it’s critical to Australia’s sustainability which was highlighted through the pandemic and because we are seeing a trend in what consumers want,” Dave said.
Advantage Air’s Western Australian warehouse evokes a classic hard-working Aussie vibe. Its 200 employees work seamlessly together from product design, tool making, quality testing, packaging, technology design and programming, dispatch and customer service.
And from the plastic used in the air conditioning parts, to the electrical component, all Advantage Air products and designed and manufactured in the Canning Vale warehouse.
Incredibly, one of the machines Flex Duct manufacturing machine, uses old bicycle wheels that lace together the aluminium in air conditioning ducts.
Businesses like Advantage Air and consumers recognise the importance of manufacturing and purchasing Australian-made products. The many benefits include:
- Supporting the Australian economy
- The retention of skilled workers in Australia
- High quality products
- Improved customer service with in-person contact.
Dave, Margaret and the Advantage Air team are focused on pushing the boundaries of innovation and bringing more high-quality Australian-made products to Australian homes.