THE Olympics might be 10 years away, but at least one Logan company is already starting to see benefits on the horizon.
One of the last of a handful of Australian-based uniform manufacturers, Shailer Park’s Struddys has been announced as a preferred supplier to the state government and its agencies.
The Queensland government spends about $18.5 billion on goods and services, and has taken a “Buy Queensland” approach to its procurement.
Struddys general manager Michael Rasmussen said the company believed that by supporting Queenslanders, Queenslanders would support them.
“Buy Queensland makes so much sense – it helps keep Queensland dollars circulating in Queensland, boosting businesses like ours – and that’s good for everyone,” Mr Rasmussen said.
“We’re aiming for a workforce of somewhere between 150-200 within 4 to 5 years, which is a doubling of our current staff.”
He said the preferred supplier status would open “many doors” for the business.
“And with the Olympics coming to Brisbane in 2032, we expect interest in our products to boom, and we stand ready to deliver for Queensland,” Mr Rasmussen said.
Springwood MP and procurement minister Mick de Brenni said the government had cut application red tape, making it easier for local businesses to be awarded government contracts.
“I’m proud to see another iconic local company, now able to put Queensland’s frontline workers in Queensland-made garments. And in the runway to Brisbane 2032 we want the eyes of the world to see Queenslanders wearing Queensland-made,” Mr de Brenni said.
“Struddys is a Queensland born company, that each year is manufacturing for thousands of Australia’s best sporting teams.
“What sets this business apart, is their commitment to local products and a local workforce, plus their major support for Queensland indigenous communities.”
Struddys began 45 years ago as a single clothing store in Sunnybank, Brisbane.
