By James Wells

MELBOURNE: Pioneer Electronics Australia has established a northern region service and distribution centre in the company’s fastest growing market of Brisbane just days before it announces annual sales in excess of $250 million.

The new Bowen Hills facility, which is expected to be operational in April, is located close to retailers within Brisbane’s CBD and will serve both the Queensland and northern New South Wales markets. 

By September this year, Pioneer expects to expand the warehouse facilities to allow more distribution to other northern parts of Australia.

The new facility will be staffed with reception and a sales staff, as well as in-house technical support and field service to Brisbane.

The decision to open the Brisbane facility has followed strong growth from the company which has seen it outgrow its current Braeside warehouse located at its head office in Melbourne, which will continue to service the southern states.

Pioneer’s existing sales and customer service will continue to operate in Sydney.

According to Pioneer Electronics Australia chief financial officer, Graeme Mehegan, the company views the Brisbane as increasingly important.

“Queensland is now our fastest growing state as far as sales go and we want our customers there to enjoy Pioneer’s commitment to great service and delivery turnaround as much as the rest of the country. We can maintain our high service standards by offering next day delivery in the greater Brisbane area for our retailers. It is sensible to split our logistics activities and this particular location was too good to pass up,” Mehegan said.

According to Pioneer Electronics managing director, Ken Barelli, a large part of the company’s success has been attributed to The Complete Plasma Experience – which provides delivery, installation, demonstration, speakers and five year warranty with every plasma screen sold.

“The Complete Plasma Experience is our commitment and promise to consumers that our plasmas provide the best quality with the best value on the market,” Barelli said.

Over the last 12 months, ending 31 March, Pioneer Electronics Australia has grown its sales turnover by almost 10 per cent to $250 million, despite experiencing a flat retail market.