Company News

Award winning fashion agency brings Cactus Leather to Australia

Slyletica offers wide range of eco fabrics including the new vegan leather ‘Desserto’ to entrepreneurs & influencers looking to start an athleisure brand; interest has surged due to Covid-19 and casual ‘work from home’ attire. Slyletica, a leading fashion agency and pioneer in the manufacturing space, is excited to announce they are introducing the latest innovation in sustainable fabrics, Desserto cactus leather, to Australia ahead of Earth Day on April 22nd, 2020. Founded in Mexico, the cactus leather Desserto won the international Green Product Award 2020 in Germany just last month. The organic material is made from turning nopal cactus leaves into vegan, cruelty-free leather. Older leaves are taken from organically grown nopal cactus plants, cleaned, crushed, and left to dry in the sun for three days prior to manufacturing. The material is sustainable, organic, soft, durable enough to make clothing and accessories and partially biodegradable – unlike other vegan leathers which are made from PVC or plastic. Working closely with the supplier of the leather, Slyletica is proud to add another eco-friendly option to its diverse library of materials and offer it to their growing database of clients looking for environmentally friendly fabrics for their lines. Slyletica’s range of eco-fabrics includes materials like wool, tencel, linen, organic cotton, hemp, modal, bamboo and most recently Econyl yarn by Carvico – a fabrication made from repurposed and recycled fishing nets. Slyletica is Australia’s leading fashion agency and the only in the world that offers a complete end-to-end solution for anyone wanting to start a fashion brand. Specialising in athleisure and sportswear, Slyletica will work with over 250 influencers and entrepreneurs by the end of 2020 in an industry that is thriving during Covid-19 and the surge of ‘work from home’ attire. Slyletica was recently named the Business News Australia Young Entrepreneur […]

The last thing companies should be doing right now is paying dividends

The economic heart attack induced by COVID-19 has revealed an ugly truth – many very large companies have too little cash to ride out sharp downturns. Cash flow variability, and the inability to retain earnings to buffer that variability, is one of the most common reasons small businesses fail. Because large companies have raised large amounts of cash through public offers, and take in large amounts of cash in their ordinary operations, they ought to be more resilient. Yet even though the pandemic-inspired shutdowns are mere weeks old, many big companies such as Virgin Australia and listed childcare providers are already pleading for or receiving public guarantees and bailouts. Other companies such as Flight Centre and Cochlear are rushing to raise extra funds though discounted share placements. Bond and debt markets are experiencing severe problems, making it difficult for these companies to borrow. Why are big companies so vulnerable? Catastrophic declines in cash flow are only half the story. The other half is the three-decade focus on maximising shareholder returns. Companies have used four strategies to keep their share prices high and push them higher. First, they have paid out profits to shareholders in the form of dividends, leaving them with less to build cash buffers, pay higher wages and reinvest in the business. Reserve Bank research shows that over the past three decades dividend payouts have trended up over time to more than 80 cents of every dollar of corporate profits. In some companies dividends payouts exceed 100% of profits. Second, the same Reserve Bank research points to the increased use of share buy-backs and dividend reinvestment plans. The former boosts share prices by shrinking the stock of shares. The latter boosts demand for that stock. Third, to lock in these historically high dividend payout ratios, shareholders, including institutional shareholders such as superannuation funds, have demanded boards agree to dividend guarantees. […]

What to do with 1 billion hours of time?

COVID-19’s impact on the Australian labour market has been dramatic and multifaceted. Some sectors of the economy have been almost completely shut down by government order. The demand in many industries has collapsed, while a few others have seen an increase. As many as one million jobs are under threat. Such estimates came before the government’s extraordinary JobKeeper scheme, which will undoubtedly reduce this figure considerably. Despite that, many who will keep their jobs may not actually have much to do at work. The economy will be in “hibernation” or on “life-support” for some time to come. We’ve gained about 1 billion hours of time If the economy has shed the equivalent of one million jobs, then we’ve gained about one billion hours of available time, and that’s just over the next six months. The full impact of the crisis could be even larger. What should we do with this time? Many of us are spending more time with children who are no longer physically at school. Some of us are doing tasks which our older relatives previously did. Netflix is also a compelling option. From a human capital perspective, the crisis presents a unique economic opportunity to re-train and up-skill Australia’s labour force. The Australian government jumped on board on Sunday, announcing funding that would cut the price of new six-month, remotely delivered diplomas and graduate certificates in nursing, teaching, health, information technology and science provided by universities and private tertiary institutions. Economists have long observed that investment in human capital (education, skills) tends to increase during recessions, because there aren’t as many well-paying alternatives. We can use it to get ahead of the curve In the current recession, the opportunities for training are greater. Even those of us who will remain employed but have little to do can use the time to invest in training. Our […]

Launching Australia’s first digital shipbuilding class

Australia is launching its first digital shipbuilding course to ensure the nation’s workforce is ready to tackle the $35 billion Hunter Class frigates program. The partnership between BAE Systems shipbuilding business, ASC Shipbuilding, and South Australia’s Flinders University will shore up important digital technology skills for the country’s $90 billion naval shipbuilding plan. Its first 53 recruits are finishing up jobs on the Hobart Class Air Warfare Destroyer program and the course, which began this week, will save vital experience and upskill workers for new builds in South Australia. “The face of modern shipbuilding is changing and the Diploma of Digital Technology will enable current shipbuilders to keep pace with the latest trends while ensuring they are equipped for the future,” ASC Shipbuilding managing director Craig Lockhart said. “Not only does this course equip our employees with the skills that will be in demand at our digital shipyard at Osborne, but it guarantees we retain the shipbuilding skills between the end of the current shipbuilding programs and the ramp up of the Hunter program.” The newly-created Diploma of Digital Technology based in South Australia is funded by the State and Federal governments. “Our partnership with Flinders University means we will upskill shipbuilders on the latest in Industry 4.0 technologies and techniques, benefiting not only the Hunter Class Frigate Program but the broader shipbuilding industry,” Lockhart said. “Flinders has responded very well to the COVID-19 situation and converted most of the tuition to online which is embracing the new technologies that we will require in a modern data-rich shipyard.” Training is also being supported by TAFE SA and the Naval Shipbuilding College with a focus on building the world’s most advanced digital shipyard in South Australia. “We are delighted to once again be partnering with ASC Shipbuilding to apply our research […]

New Hydraulink Portland delivers family-style focus on top quality and enduring customer relationships

The new Hydraulink Portland vehicle with directorShane Sewell, left, and technician Jake Carter, right. A family business founded on decades of quality engineering for users of diesel transport and heavy plant and machinery is expanding its services to customers by establishing a full franchise in Portland of the national Hydraulink hydraulic hose and fittings group. Hydraulink Portland – led by husband and wife team Shane and Tamara Sewell of Skiddys Diesel Services – joins more than 400 Hydraulink service outlets throughout New Zealand and Australia operating 24/7 under the market signature “Best Under Pressure”. Shane Sewell says the new business in coastal southwest Victoria extends the range of services his complementary companies can offer market sectors in which he has built up a strong following (including transport, forestry, heavy machinery, marine, fleet maintenance, oil, gas, mining, truck and trailer repairs and maintenance, construction and infrastructure). Quality engineering is key to the family based company “This is a close-knit community that values quality, safety and reliability in engineering. We would rather our staff spent extra time ensuring the job is done right, so that when it goes out into the field it offers the best and longest-lasting performance, and avoids downtime,” said Mr Sewell, whose new Hydraulink mobile service truck joins his fleet of four vehicles (including 4wd) that range across the district. “Hydraulink is a good fit for us, because we are founded on the same family and service values of their franchise network, which backs its members and staff with outstanding training and resources. These help ensure proper and uniform compliance with quality and safety standards and traceability of components vital to performance and safety,” he said. “Our whole family is committed to the success of our business. We are customer-centric, just like Hydraulink. We all work in our […]

Australian Institute of Business partners with SEN to launch grant initiative

The Australian Institute of Business has partnered with Australian sports radio station SEN to launch the SEN Small Business Grant initiative. The initiative will see grants totalling $100,000 available in lots of $5000 for small businesses to communicate and promote their messages through a SEN advertising campaign. In light of current global circumstances, the Australian small business sector is facing unprecedented hardships. Small businesses are navigating through unseen economic challenges, with many at risk of permanent closure. SEN’s Content Director Sam Thompson said brands that sustain their advertising presence during a crisis typically reap the rewards. “Now, more than ever, consumers are wanting to hear from brands with relevant, timely information so we are thrilled to help SMEs continue to promote themselves via the SEN Small Business Grants,” Thompson said. Australian Institute of Business, a leader in higher education and Australia’s largest online MBA provider is committed to aiding small businesses during this time. Recognising that the present climate has generated a global spike in media consumption, providing new opportunities for businesses to engage with their audience. With a cumulative audience of 259,000 across Australia, SEN will enable small businesses to widely promote their message to potential customers. Small businesses account for 35% of Australia’s gross domestic profit and employ 44% of Australia’s workforce. Of the 877,744 total employing businesses, 823,551 are small businesses (93.8%).[1] Australian Institute of Business CEO, Paul Wappett said, “We are proud to partner with SEN we know this a tough time for businesses, people working in businesses and for everyone in the community these grants will really help,” The SEN Small Business Grant initiative will see a minimum of 20 businesses receive a $5,000 advertising package across the SEN network. TO ENTER: Businesses can register at: sen.com.au/grants and complete the online entry form detailing why […]

Manufacturers keep boosted sanitiser supply in local hands

South Australian companies are ramping up hand sanitiser production to fill local shortages While some are traditional manufacturers increasing production, a number of distilleries are also filling the void to supply emergency services and health staff as they try to slow the spread of COVID-19. Iconic South Australian hair and beauty guru Arturo Taverna is quarantining its increased supply of hand sanitiser and hospital grade disinfectant to fill local shortages. Before demand spiked in Australia last month, the company was scrambling to fill export orders for countries reeling from the effects of COVID-19 but now director Andrew Taverna said Artav Australia was doing its best to only supply Australian clients from its Regency Park factory. “From the moment we heard there was a need here we have moved production to supply locally,” Arturo’s son Andrew Taverna said. “The problem is we are struggling to get vital ingredients, so if we can only produce small quantity at a time we are trying our best to prioritise the product between the most in need.” A second shift has been added at Taverna’s family company Artav Australia to fuel the production increase as coronavirus empties Australian warehouses and supermarket shelves. The company has also reduced production levels of some of its other hair and beauty lines so it can focus on its its Dispel sanitising products. It now employs 60 staff and Taverna said it was committed to retaining and employing more people as many businesses closed their doors with new social distancing rules around the virus. “For us the importance of doing business is two-fold, we want to get as much product as we can produce to the most important places,” Taverna said. “We’re trying to understand and to identify the key places to provide our disinfectant and hand sanitiser.” Hand sanitisers […]

Flexlite GX gun range delivers on ease and efficiency

Leading international welding equipment manufacturer, Kemppi, has released its new Flexlite GX guns for MIG/MAG welding. Designed for comfort, reliability, performance and efficient use of consumables, the new Kemppi Flexlite GX welding guns, will help users increase productivity, while saving on inventory costs. Together with the Flexlite TX range for TIG welding, the Flexlite GX guns deliver next-generation capability for professionals and complete the Kemppi Flexlite family. High-performance gunsBuilt to perform under extreme temperatures and in demanding environments, the Flexlite GX range delivers quality welds. The sophisticated guns use power source capacity efficiently and help users create smooth and spatter free welds. The shielding gas channels in the Flexlite GX gun have been separated and the cooling circulation runs to the very end of the gun neck. This keeps the neck gun cooler and enables cleaner welds, less spatter and reduced shielding gas consumption. In addition, the innovative neck cooling system of the Flexlite GX series ensures that the temperature of the contact tip is up to 35% lower when compared to other corresponding welding guns. This helps extend the life of the contact tip and other consumables, while reducing costs and making spare parts management easier. Excellent ergonomicsThe Flexlite GX guns also deliver comfort in spades and help reduce welder fatigue thanks to their ergonomic design. Each gun is lightweight and features a flexible cable set and innovative ball-jointed cable protection that reduces the load on the welder’s wrist. Plus, the pistol grip handle has been anatomically designed so that it feels like an extension of the welder’s hand. Providing excellent balance, it allows for a natural wrist position, which makes the work at hand easier and more effortless, particularly when doing long welds, and allows the welder to concentrate on challenging tasks. Less parts, Lower costsThe number of […]

Coronovirus drives sales Aus Asia MN Websites

Coronavirus drives sales of hi-tech mobile x-ray units

The Adelaide-based company reported to the Australian Securities Exchange that sales of its flagship lightweight mobile x-ray machine had reached $1.8 million for the quarter with $1 million worth of sales in the past 20 days. With two weeks of the March quarter remaining, the result has already dwarfed December quarter DRX Revolution Nano sales of $384,000 and is almost on par with the $1.9 million in sales achieved in the entire 2019 financial year. There is a requirement for urgent delivery of the latest batch of orders within a four-week time frame. These additional purchase orders are for delivery to Asia and Europe. The company said while the orders through its distributor Carestream Health did not specify the end customer, it was understood that due to the size and urgency of the orders, some of these Nano units were to be deployed in connection with the ongoing COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak. While the standard lead time for the delivery of a Nano is between 8-12 weeks from order date, Micro-X says it has been able to deliver its recent February orders within a time frame of approximately four weeks from order date. Early-stage diagnosis of coronavirus is by a blood test to confirm the infectious agent, and a chest x-ray is used as an essential part of diagnosis of the development and progression of the severity of the illness. Like with pneumonia, a chest x-ray is used to detect fluid in the lungs, particularly with patients presenting with severe acute respiratory distress. Micro-X managing director Peter Rowland said the mobile x-ray imaging units offered a flexibility of use most suited to the requirements of infection control procedures and also the nature of temporary hospital quarantine buildings. “With the alarming state of this growing epidemic, we are pleased that our Nano […]

Surge bin structural bearings protect against production downtime and safety hazards

An old structural bearing that has failed in service. Hercules Engineering’s custom long-life structural bearings provide a more durable solution to prevent failures like this. Corrosion and deterioration of worn or poorly designed sliding bearings used in minerals processing and materials handling production lines can cost downtime and maintenance where these unprotected components suffer reduced lifespans or failure in aggressive production environments or extreme natural conditions. Instead of protecting the support structures of containers such as surge bins – by absorbing movement from heat expansion, changing load and impact as raw material is transferred to crushers – defective bearings can ultimately lock up and transfer distortions, strain and cracking into the support structures, interrupting production and creating a safety hazard. “Sometimes the problem is gradual moisture or production material ingress into the bearings, which can cause abrasive damage to the sliding components and corrosion of mild steel plates. Other times deterioration can be contributed to by aggressive environments and extreme weather acting over time to weather exposed joints,” says bearing specialist Mr David Booty, Manager, Hercules Engineering (a division of Cut To Size Plastics). Hercules Engineering recently provided a no-maintenance solution to such issues by producing a Herculon Type D Free Floating (HLD-FF) bearing custom-engineered to optimise the lifespan of such bearings used beneath surge bins. Custom-fabricated Hercules HLD-FF (Free float) composite slip joint engineered for outstanding durability and lifespan in aggressive mining and materials handling applications. HLD-FF components shown in 3D schematic, as per description below. The customisable HLD-FF bearing is fabricated from a sandwich of Herculfon, Hercupad and stainless steel plate, all contained between mild steel top and bottom plates. The smooth, inherently corrosion-protected stainless surface slides against a Hercuflon (Teflon-type) material atop a coated, fabric-reinforced, natural rubber Hercupad. Hercupad material accommodates in-plane rotations and provides shock absorbing properties. It […]

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