QLM Label Makers opens new Brisbane factory

Hosted by marketing manager Jo Forbes-Salmon, the inauguration included a welcome speech from general manager Andrew Siwicki, address by CEO Simon Pugh and messages of support from government officials Hon Karen Andrews MP, federal minister for industry, science and technology, and Hon Jim Chalmers MP, federal shadow treasurer. 

Andrew Siwicki, general manager of QLM Label Makers, said: ‘QLM is a passionate company and we are excited to finally open our virtual doors to our world-class operations. We are proud of our purpose-built facility that brings us to the forefront of manufacturing for quality labels and packaging. The little company that thought it could is now doing it – and still 100 percent Australian owned.

‘We have some of the most advanced technology in all of Australia. Each plays an important role in the success we have achieved. We grow and thrive because we focus on continued improvement, customer service and operational excellence.’ 

‘QLM had very humble beginnings and it has grown and evolved to Australia’s leading manufacturing and distribution hubs,’ said Moragh Pugh, director at QLM Label Makers. ‘Family values are really important to us.’ 

Great relationships 
CEO Simon Pugh commented on the idea of hosting a virtual event. ‘I was asked why now, why in such troubling times? We believe it is actually for this very reason of uncertainty that we choose to focus on the great relationships we have with our team, with our clients and suppliers, to focus on the possibilities that are possible when we get creative.

‘My mantra is that things I knew yesterday have little relevance today and will be totally meaningless tomorrow. But within this uncertainty, we know that by continuing to commit to innovation to grow a modern manufacturing base in Australia, developing and building our team, understanding and communicating market trends, we have right tools in place to develop solutions that ensure long term success for all stakeholders. Our vision is complete label solutions driven by our internal mission statement to deliver solutions for long and mutually beneficial relationships.’

Joel Scott, national sales manager, said: ‘We have two salespeople to look after every client – one who you can contact and the second to ensure you get best quality and best value for money. QLM has a very hands-on process. We believe in having long-term, mutually rewarding relationships.’ 

Pugh said that while the virtual event may ‘save on the catering bill, we are really looking forward to the opportunity of having you in our factory, in person, whenever the circumstances allow.’ 

QLM also launched an online platform with industry-related information and resources for Australian manufacturers and local suppliers. It will include training, webinars and access to innovations and industry trends. 

Further, the company launched its newly created corporate video highlighting the manufacturing capabilities of its Australian business, including the new primarily flexographic operation in Brisbane and the digital production manufacturing facility in Melbourne. 

The new facility designed by the QLM team is committed to ensuring a process of continual improvement, maximizing efficiency and reducing the company’s environmental footprint.

The official opening had a number of messages of support from supply chain partners and customers. QLM was joined by clients and team members who have been part of the company for more than 25 years. Nearly 500 people attended the online event. 

QLM Label Makers employs over 100 staff across Australia and has operations throughout the region including in Australia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Bangladesh and Vietnam.