LAST year The Smith Family’s Commercial Enterprise (TSF) located in the Sydney suburb of Villawood recognised a significant business milestone when its manufacturing nonwoven textile operation celebrated its twentieth year.
A manufacturing facility was established in 1987, as a means of utilising textile industry waste and the tonnes of surplus clothing that weren’t suitable for either sale through TSF’s retail outlets or for export.
The first of three specialised lines went into operation to produce nonwoven fabrics from regenerated fibres. Carpet underlay, furniture removal felt, weed suppression and water retention felts are just some of the examples of products produced by the manufacturing line.
“Through the creative and innovative commercial utilisation of what would otherwise be waste product destined for landfill, we are able to convert hundreds of tonnes of waste clothing and material into manufactured non woven textile felts and fabrics,” Cathy Bray, CEO TSF-Commercial Enterprise said.
In 1992, a significant investment was made and the second manufacturing line became operational enabling the Commercial Enterprise to significantly expand its capabilities and manufacture a more extensive range of felt and fabric products.
In 2004, as the result of a strategic business review and the support of the Federal Government’s Strategic Investment Program (SIP), TSF invested in the growth potential of its nonwoven textile operation and committed to an additional manufacturing line that would increase the output capacity by 6,000 tonnes annually to over 10,000 tonnes annually from the Villawood operational centre.
Commenting on the importance of SIP, Bray said it provided the catalyst and funding for investing in technology and processes that markedly expanded commercial and marketing opportunities.
The new third ‘airlay’ line came on stream this year and is now fully operational. Its unique technological capabilities have enabled the Commercial Enterprise to significantly expand the product portfolio and capitalise on technological advantages and innovation.
“Another noteworthy benefit of the third line is its suitability to utilise renewable source natural fibres as well as raw materials from recyclable sources. This capability together with our recycling activities, enables the Commercial Enterprise to decrease our environmental footprint,” she continued.
With the addition of the now fully operational third line, TSF’s Commercial Enterprise is positioned to further enhance product development and export and local marketing capabilities.
“It’s our goal to use technology and innovation to efficiently and responsibly transform materials and resources many regarded as waste, into marketable products that benefit the Australian economy and environment.
“The long term societal benefit is also important because it means the Commercial Enterprise can contribute funds to enable TSF’s Social Enterprise to support more Australian disadvantaged children and help them reach their potential through education.”