Media Release by Queensland Government
A new $3 million facility for Bundaberg manufacturer Grillex is now operational, supported by the Palaszczuk Government’s Jobs and Regional Growth Fund.
Established as Unisite back in 2006, Grillex have evolved to become one of Australia’s leading producers of park infrastructure and outdoor furniture products.
In Bundaberg for the official opening of Grillex’s new facility, Treasurer and Minister for Investment Cameron Dick said state funding helped accelerate the company’s expansion plans by two years.
“Our government backed this project through our $175 million Jobs and Regional Growth Fund because we knew it meant more jobs for Bundaberg,” Mr Dick said.
“Around 30 jobs were sustained over the construction period, and with 15 new roles set to be created over the coming years, the Grillex workforce will increase by 60 per cent.
“Grillex is a family-owned, fast-growing operation, and this state-of-the-art facility will see them manufacturing more high-quality products for councils and schools, tourism giants such as accommodation provider Mantra, and even places like Taronga Zoo and Adelaide Oval.
“This announcement is a boost to Queensland’s COVID-19 economic recovery, and our government looks forward to seeing Grillex’s ongoing evolution and the benefits that will bring to the Wide Bay.”
Manufacturing products like barbecues, shelters, tables and seating, and even drinking fountains, Grillex plan to increase research and development, focusing on public space infrastructure for a COVID-safe environment.
The company’s new facility is located in the Kensington industrial area near Bundaberg Regional Airport and was developed by local contractor Ascot Homes and Commercial.
Grillex Managing Director Martin Rowland said the company is thrilled with the new facility and thanked the government for its support.
“The expansion has provided us with a 2680 square metre warehouse and office complex featuring the latest in manufacturing technologies on the assembly line,” Mr Rowland said.
“We’re expecting to grow 25 percent in the next five years, so designing the facility around modern principles like lean manufacturing is really going to boost our global competitiveness and help us target new international markets.
“In addition to targeting domestic growth opportunities with council parks and resorts, we will continue to build on our current export markets of New Zealand, Fiji and Dubai, as well as expanding into Europe.”
Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith said Grillex is another local success story for the region.
“This is a business and team that have worked hard to achieve early success, focusing on manufacturing high-quality products and earning the trust of buyers both domestically and abroad,” Mr Smith said.
“With this new facility, Grillex are primed for new markets and growth, which is a fantastic outcome for them, for local jobs and the Bundy economy.”
