Gold Coast innovator ModnPods is ramping up production by officially opening a new modular pod factory in Arundel that will potentially produce up to 200 modular pods, including some purpose-built government employee housing.
The increase in manufacturing capacity was made possible by a $100 million investment in ModnPods by the Palaszczuk government through the Queensland Investment Corporation-managed Business Investment Fund, the government said in a media statement.
With the launch of the new 6,200 square metre factory, the previous 16-week build period has been shortened to 32 days, and the plant now operates on a 24-day turnaround, with a brand new pod departing the facility every three days.
In just one year, ModnPods said it has tripled its employees, doubled its area, increased production tenfold, and cut construction times by 70 per cent.
The facility, according to ModnPods Managing Director Stuart Giles, will promote the expansion of local job prospects while helping to address home affordability issues.
“The opportunity to showcase the talents and skills of our Queensland workforce to deliver innovations that are driving this spectacular growth story, is something we feel privileged to have and we’re proud of our achievements to date,” Giles remarked.
He also emphasised the company’s excitement for what the future holds as it ramps up to full capacity in this new plant and begins exploring the location of its next Queensland manufacturing facility.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk stated that the investment has resulted in ModnPods creating houses faster, which is what the government requires in order to satisfy current demand.
“It’s also terrific to see local manufacturing back on the Gold Coast and the 36 jobs already created through our investment, with a further 50 jobs expected by next year,” the premier noted.
Meanwhile, Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said that Queensland Investment Corporation’s $100 million Business Investment was formed to support the growth of Queensland companies like ModnPods, enabling them to seize innovative business possibilities and increase the number of employment in the state.
“Since being introduced, the Business Investment Fund has invested more than $60 million into 11 companies, creating more than 230 jobs,” the minister remarked.
As part of the Methods of Modern Construction program, the ModnPods homes will complement the efforts of Queensland’s QBuild Rapid Accommodation and Apprentice Centre at Eagle Farm.
