By Martin Vedris
SYDNEY: Fisher & Paykel’s national sales manager – commercial, Andrew Paykel has been appointed general manager, Thailand, where he will head up the company’s new manufacturing plant which will produce their laundry range of washing machines and dryers.
“This is a new frontier for us and is necessary to meet a competitive market,” said Andrew Paykel, who will relocate to Thailand in September.
The new factory will replace the existing plant in East Tamaki, New Zealand which will shut down in December.
“We aim to have production up and running in the new plant in March 2008,” said Paykel.
The move to Thailand was enhanced by the considerable infrastructure and tax break incentives offered to manufacturers in the Rayong province of Thailand, and competitive labour rates.
“Our major competitors produce throughout Asia and we need to be there to be competitive and signify we are in there for the long haul,” said Paykel.
Andrew Paykel began his career with Fisher & Paykel as a cadet and storeman, working through the company ranks to his current position.
His tenure has included a stint in the United States and six years as NSW state manager.
Andrew Paykel’s wife Adene and 14 month daughter Lucinda will move to Thailand with him.
Fisher & Paykel’s Research and Development and production of fridges, freezers, dishwashers and some of the cooking range will remain in New Zealand. Australia’s Cleveland plant in Queensland produces refrigerators, and a new Italian facility in Veneto manufactures quality cooking appliances.