PLP's New Operation in Asia

In April 2004 PLP established its newest subsidiary, PLP Asia, in Thailand. PLP purchased the assets of a small but successful local company supplying products to the Thai power market. In doing so PLP has opened an avenue, not only to the often price restrictive Thai power market but also, into the regional South East Asia power industries.

PLP Australia has been developing its export markets over the last number of years with growing success. In 2002 PLP won the prestigious AEEMA Australian Exporter of the Year Award for its strong growth and development of exports to South East Asia and other markets.

PLP secured business expansion in specific market segments where the requirement for specialised design and products required the engineering expertise and capabilities of PLP’s engineering teams.

However access to many projects was limited due to the cost competitiveness of local suppliers. Shipping many standard hardware products from Australia to overseas counties met with excessive freight costs, import duties and preferences for local manufacturing, which pushed PLP’s overall prices to customers into an uncompetitive position.

For many export projects PLP was supplying the higherprecision components while other companies supplied the more standard basic hardware. PLP decided, as part of our world wide development strategy, to establish a local manufacturing base in South East Asia. This means PLP Australia can add complimentary products and grow our existing business, gain access to new markets, fi nd new projects and opportunities and build employment opportunities for our Australian and Thai staff.

PLP Asia currently manufactures hardware fi ttings and accessories for the aerial cable industry as well as substation products. Originally established in 1992 the company PLP purchased has secured a strong segment of the Thai market. Lack of investment capital and international experience restricted the previous management from their aim to expand into regional markets.

In taking over the company PLP was very pleased to employ 100% of the local staff, including the entire management team. Since April there has been an increase of 5% in staff numbers and this is expected to grow as business develops.In the short time that PLP Asia has been in existence it has already had re-accreditation of its ISO 9001 status. The local power companies and utilities have been very supportive of the entry of PLP into the Thai market. They have welcomed the local access to PLP’s proven expertise, product range and selection. The potential for exports of Thai products to regional markets also met with encouragement and support.

Products at PLP Asia are produced to international standards of manufacturing and testing. PLP Asia can produce and test to BS, AS, IEC, ANSI, as well as customer requested specifi cations.

The staff of PLP Asia are a well trained and educated team of personnel. New designs or requirements can swiftly be turned into products whether castings, forgings or other metal parts. Expertise in mechanical engineering, design, manufacturing and production provide high quality products at a cost competitive level.