More than a move, a new era of success
On October 28, more than 300 invited guests celebrated a new era of manufacturing success for Schneider Electric and the Clipsal brand with the official opening of the company’s $35 million Gepps Cross office and manufacturing facility.
Among them were VIP customers including Club Clipsal International member contractors, electrical wholesalers and staff from all of the Schneider Electric entities.
Channel Nine Newsreader, Rob Kelvin officiated proceedings. Rob set the tone by describing Clipsal as an “iconic South Australian brand,” part of global enterprise that calls Gepps Cross its home.
Damien Cummins, Executive General Manager of Clipsal Australia took to the stage and described the relocation to Gepps Cross as “more than a move”. “We took 90 years of Clipsal culture and tradition and brought it with us to a new home. ”
Damien praised the staff and team for making the shift a seamless one with particular mention of the Clipsal Fooreno Project Team, builders Qanstruct, architects Hassell and electrical contractors, Nilsens.
The Premier of South Australia, Mike Rann unveiled the plaque but not before praising Schneider Electric for ensuring that a new era for a true South Australian success story would continue and for also taking “our state” to the world.
Lionel Finidori, Managing Director, Pacific Zone Schneider Electric, described the event as “a very special day” celebrating a massive industrial building project. Lionel recalled the skepticism when the Gepps Cross site was selected as the future location of the Clipsal brand.
“People thought we could move operations offshore at a whim. But this facility is a great transformation, the largest in the Asia –Pacific region, a massive investment in the community, building and people. It features all of our latest technology and showcases our capabilities. We can look back with pride that we’ve built something great.
“The facility was also a great example of the “Schneider One” programme. Previously we were scattered, now we are all under one roof - a great move for our people, a better place to work, perform, collaborate and encourage more teamwork.”
Russell Stocker, General Manager, Asia-Pacific Operating Division, Schneider Electric, spoke last and described the day as an “important milestone,” particularly in view of the economic climate.
“We had the courage to write a cheque for $35 million. But it was a 20 year investment decision and we are banking on getting our return. Gepps Cross is a very important R&D site and we are expecting lots of new innovations and we have provided the tools to make this happen.”
Russell predicted with the growth of the Chinese and Indian markets that the Gepps Cross site would be an important platform to deliver our product for this very ready market. Russell also commented that our own human resources would be needed in these new markets to provide the necessary expertise required.
Finally, in a message to Clipsal’s many loyal customers who were present, Russell assured them that Clipsal’s famous customer relationship would continue to thrive.
“We understand the Clipsal rapport is unique. We know how precious the Clipsal magic is and it is something we wish to preserve and nurture.”
Formalities were followed by tours of the factory and brunch served in the magnificent gallery area which highlights both Schneider Electric’s world history since 1836 and Clipsal’s proud 90 year history of product innovation.
For media enquiries please contact: Alex Beltrame, Media Manager, Clipsal Australia Ph: (08) 8161 0822
For general media enquiries about Clipsal please contact:
- Alex Beltrame,
Media Manager,
Ph: +61 8 8161 0822
