But some companies are stepping up to sort out this jam with a bit of innovation. Our mates at Kerfab and Gunlake Group are perfect examples of Aussie grit. Kerfab’s using top-notch robotics to speed up their manufacturing, and Gunlake’s rolled out AI in their trucks to ensure top-quality concrete delivery every time. These legends are leading the way in getting things moving again.
The Heartbeat of Kerfab’s Manufacturing Marvel
Kerfab stands out in bespoke manufacturing, crafting specialised grapples and buckets for machinery that keep Australia’s construction industry ticking. By producing these parts locally, they offer speedy service unmatched by offshore manufacturers, making them a unique and reliable partner for construction machine dealerships. For example, Komatsu Australia recently delivered a machine fitted with a custom High Dump Bucket from Kerfab. Built from stronger materials, this bucket has an innovative design that pivots on the front edge, giving the machine extended reach to dump over tall obstacles.
Their success comes from a team that knows their stuff, automating workflows to streamline production. This blend of brains and tech ensures top-quality products, helping local manufacturing thrive. Look up Kerfab on LinkedIn, and you’ll see heaps of happy dealerships boasting their sales with machines fitted with Kerfab buckets. They all trust Kerfab to deliver on time and with quality, keeping the industry moving.
We work closely with Jay Chirnside, Kerfab’s General Manager, and he’s always looking for ways to work smarter, help their staff focus, and reduce their customers’ waiting time for deliveries. We’ve seen how they’ve even generated savings by cleverly putting transportation orders together. They’re like that, always looking to innovate and maximise profits, yes, but first offering top-quality service and equipment.
By producing these parts locally, Kerfab offer speedy service unmatched by offshore manufacturers.
Gunlake Group Pioneering with AI and Innovation
Another clever use of technology is how Gunlake Group has revolutionised concrete delivery with AI. This tech keeps the mix spot-on from the batching plant to the site. Back in 2020, we helped them fine-tune their financials and CRM, which their tech-savvy team quickly got the hang of. And they really surprised us with their latest innovation. By using AI in their trucks, they’ve taken things up a notch. These fellas really go the extra mile to ensure every batch is top-quality and waste is reduced along the way.
Gunlake’s business is about delivering like clockwork or literally turning into stone. Their customer service has to be precise, and they’ve leveraged technology to achieve this. First, they ensure deliverability. Then, they use the same data to provide real-time visibility to customers, helping them track deliveries and giving them peace of mind. This customer-centric approach sets a new standard in the industry and shows how innovation can lead to better results and happier customers.
Lessons We’ve Learned from Industry Innovators
Innovation is key to tackling the challenges in Australia’s public construction sector. High material costs, labour shortages, and the housing crisis make it tough, but new tech offers solutions. Precast concrete pieces speed up construction and boost durability. Recycled asphalt reduces environmental impact and meets regulations. 3D printing for bridge parts cuts waste and allows precise customisation.
As these technologies are being onshored, new business opportunities are popping up. Here are some practical tips we’ve gathered from industry leaders to help you stay ahead in case you’re planning to expand your services as a supplier to construction companies.
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The Way Forward for Construction Suppliers is Technology
If you want to succeed in this industry as a supplier, your focus has to be customer service. To serve better, you need innovation, a well-oiled team, and drive. Just look at the folks behind Kerfab and Gunlake. With every step they take, they make the industry better and fill us with pride.
Their success is our success because we always aim to make people’s work easier so they can have a greater impact and achieve their missions. This is how, together, we make work easier, empowering one individual at a time.
If you’re interested in working smarter, give us a call. We know a thing or two, and we’re looking to partner with companies that share our values and want to generate wealth and value.
Go Beyond. Go Klugo.
