RESPECTED designer and manufacturer of high quality lubrication and flow management gear, Macnaught Pty Ltd , has declared war on "low-cost, low-value, low-quality imports".
The company has foreshadowed sweeping changes to its market philosophy, distribution arrangements and brand presence in industry-to-industry markets nationally.
CEO Peter Macnaught says that from June 1, 2006, the company's long-standing exclusive distribution agreement with Castrol Australia for lubrication equipment will end by mutual agreement.
Peter Macnaught says that the two companies are parting on good terms to pursue separate agendas.
"Macnaught is radically overhauling its brand and product presence and distribution channel arrangements in Australia," he says.
Peter Macnaught describes the new distribution and market strategy as responding positively to challenges arising from an increasingly globalised and competitive marketplace.
"We're recruiting significant new human resources capability at head office in terms of sales, marketing and customer relations and in the form of a field sales team - primarily in the lube equipment sector.
"Macnaught aims to provide a better level of customer service by responding more rapidly to customer needs.
"This will include investment in upgrading R&D, warehousing, distribution and manufacturing facilities.
"We'll be rolling out advanced new products into world markets - including Australia - during 2006 and, during the past six months, we've dramatically upgraded our brand livery and visibility."
During 2006, Macnaught will be attending a range of industry events and field days around Australia.
These include National Manufacturing Week in Sydney and machinery field days from Farm Fest at Toowoomba to Ag Fest in Launceston and from Ag Quip in Gunnedah to Dowerin in WA.
Since its establishment in 1948, Macnaught has been a designer, manufacturer and distributor of quality lubrication equipment into markets including agriculture; manufacturing; automotive; mining; aviation; and marine.
In 1989, Macnaught began manufacturing flow meters and today produces a full range of oval gear, positive displacement meters that are known for their reliability, durability and overall design excellence.
"Quality is the core element of every facet of our operations," Peter Macnaught said.
"The company's engineering department, consisting of nine design engineers, is devoted to research and development and ensuring that we continue to pioneer the design and manufacture of robust and long lasting products.
"This commitment is reflected in Macnaught's unique five-year warranty and its 10 year parts availability promise on all manufactured lubrication products."
Peter Macnaught says the company has built an enviable reputation in more than 60 countries for innovation, with products tailored specifically to individual market needs.
"Its distributors are market leaders in their respective countries and their knowledge of the Macnaught range means that assistance, parts and service are never too far away."