QUEENSLAND manufacturing has remained resilient despite a number of global challenges, according to Australian Industry Group (AiGroup), a leading employer group that will be exhibiting at this year’s Queensland Manufacturing Technology Exhibition (QMan) — to be held in Brisbane in October.
“To date Queensland manufacturing has been fairly resilient in standing up to a raft of global pressures, whether in relation to commodity prices, increased cost of borrowing or exchange rates,” said Chris Rodwell, director — Queensland, Ai Group.
“Much of this strength has to do with the industry’s alignment to the high growth opportunities in mining and infrastructure.”
However, Rodwell pointed out that increases in turnover are not necessarily translating to the bottom line and that certain manufacturers are having a tough time.
“In more than a few cases Ai Group’s members are caught in the trap of doing more for less. The lower value-adding manufacturers, which tend to be the higher volume employers, continue to do it hard.
“Many are facing a difficult ride given their escalated exposure to the appreciated Aussie dollar. This issue continues to drive significant restructuring of supply chains.”
According to Paul Baker, exhibition manager of QMan 2008, the event is shaping up to be a significant event for Queensland manufacturers, especially for those looking for a competitive advantage.
“The exhibition will allow manufacturers to see first-hand the latest innovations in manufacturing technology, potentially allowing them to become more efficient and competitive,” said Baker.
QMan will be held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from October 21st to 23rd.
More than 95 exhibitors are expected to attend QMan, and key exhibitors who have taken space include Advanced Robotic Technology, Blackwoods, Leap Australia, Multicam Systems, Product Lifecycle Management, Robotic Automation, Shaw Machinery and Treotham Automation.
QMan 2008 will for the first time feature a section devoted to electronics and electrical.
The new section is designed to support Queensland’s growing electronics sector, which according to the Queensland Government, has achieved strong growth in employment, turnover and exports during the past decade.
“Queensland manufacturers will really benefit by having access to a full-spectrum manufacturing exhibition,” said Baker.