TACKLE giant Shimano has officially opened its massive new Australian HQ in southern Sydney. Fisho attended an opening ceremony in Caringbah this week which showcased a state-of-the-art automated warehouse system plus detailed the merger between the Japanese company’s local fishing and bicycling operations.
A gigantic warehouse housing the full range of Shimano fishing tackle and bicycling parts features a logistics and supply system designed by Dematic, a Luxembourg based material handling and logistics automation company.
Shimano is one of only five Australian companies to use this high-tech automated system, which allows products to be sorted, packed and distributed to retailers quickly and efficiently.
Fisho also got a guided tour through Shimano’s product information facility where the latest gear – both fishing and bicycling – is on display. Ipads linked to big screens allow guests to the Shimano offices to browse through websites and videos detailing product info.
During our tour we were given a sneak peek at new reels and lures due to be launched at the AFTA trade show in the Gold Coast late next month. Stay tuned for full details on these exciting products, plus plenty of other new gear Shimano will be releasing at the annual AFTA show … Meantime, Shimano executives say the new HQ will allow the company to significantly expand its operations in the Australian market.
Speeches at the opening ceremony noted the vision and business acumen of influential Shimano Australia founder, John Dunphy, who sadly passed away earlier this year. Many of the tackle industry identities Fisho spoke to at the opening ceremony said the massive new Shimano building was a lasting testament to Dunphy’s legacy as a one of the founding fathers of the modern recreational fishing industry.
IMAGES: Paul K Robbins, www.mondephoto.com.au
