FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FISHER & PAYKEL APPLIANCES COMMISSIONS
MANUFACTURING PLANT
March 14, 2006
HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA – Fisher & Paykel
Appliances today joined with its employees, suppliers
and government representatives to celebrate the installation
and commissioning of the first stage of its Clyde facility.
The start of washer production at Clyde follows an
ambitious project plan that involved dismantling and
relocation of plant from Queensland, Australia. The plant
was shipped to the port of Philadelphia during December
last, with commissioning at the Clyde site starting in
January. Around 40 of the Company's tradespeople and
engineers were involved, including several local employees
who had earlier traveled to Australia and New Zealand
for training. Initial production commenced on February
20th and will ramp up progressively as new staff are
trained.
"This is a sensational accomplishment," said
John Bongard, Managing Director and CEO of Fisher & Paykel
Appliances, "We have even exceeded our own bold
expectations by completing the project in such a short
time frame. The support we have received from KMH and
Janotta and Herner in the construction and delivery of
additional factory space was crucial to the project.
We have been very impressed by the project manager and
their contractors during the construction phase." The
Company added 33,000 square feet of factory space to
the existing buildings on site.
John Bongard also acknowledged the contribution of
the Company's employees. "We asked a number of technical
and skilled trades employees from Down Under to help
with the commissioning of the plant at Clyde. This team
passed up the peak of the Southern Hemisphere summer
to travel up to the unfamiliar chill of the northern
winter. They were also separated from their families
for six to eight weeks. Their skill and dedication are
very much reflected in what has been achieved. We are
very appreciative of their contribution."
Fisher & Paykel Appliances is delighted with the
welcome it has received from the local community at every
level. The Company hopes to return this welcome by having
a positive impact on employment and commerce in the region.
The plant will produce washing machines to support
solid growth in US sales. This move will reduce working
capital and delivery times for the Company. Future development
on the Clyde site will see the manufacture of appliance
motors and the Company's unique top-loading clothes dryer.
These projects will be completed during 2006.
Press contact:
Scott Davies
949-790-8900
scott.davies@fisherpaykel.com
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