Business North September 2024

14 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT ARB 4x4 Accessories T T Karen Phelps New facility as ARB expands in NZ The expansion includes additional warehousing, a new fitting bay, and an interactive showroom,. ARB, Australia’s leading manufacturer and distributor of 4x4 accessories, has significantly bolstered its presence in New Zealand with the opening of a new stateof-the-art facility in Hamilton. The expansion, which includes additional warehousing, a new fitting bay, and an interactive showroom, marks a pivotal moment for the company’s growth in the country and highlights its commitment to local manufacturing. The new additions, which opened their doors in April, complement ARB’s existing manufacturing facility on Foreman Road in Hamilton. This site has been instrumental in producing high-quality canopy shells and liners, serving as the cornerstone of ARB’s New Zealand operations. ARB stocks a wide range of bull bars, suspension, lights and much more. “For our clients it means we can hold a lot more stock and our showroom gives people the ability to see everything we do as we have most things on display. This provides a real opportunity for people to touch and see and allows people to imagine and get excited about what they can do to their vehicles and how we can help them,” says Tammy Higgins, Marketing Coordinator for ARB 4x4 Accessories in New Zealand. A standout feature of ARB’s New Zealand operation is its local manufacturing of canopy shells. These shells, produced and assembled at the Hamilton site, are testament to ARB’s commitment to quality and local industry, says Tammy. The canopies are made from UV-stable ABS thermoplastic, ensuring durability and reliability in the harsh New Zealand climate. This local production not only supports New Zealand’s manufacturing sector but also allows for greater customization and faster delivery times for Kiwi customers, she says. ARB’s canopies are designed to cater to a wide range of needs, from providing secure storage for tradespeople to offering weatherproof solutions for outdoor enthusiasts. The company offers various models, including the Classic canopy for simple, secure storage, and the flagship Ascent canopy, which boasts cutting-edge design and functionality. Tammy says that the versatility of these locally produced canopies extends beyond mere storage. They serve as a foundation for further customization, allowing Ute owners to tailor their vehicles with additional features such as drawer systems, shelving, tie-down points, and fridge slides. This adaptability makes ARB canopies a popular choice among New Zealand’s diverse 4x4 community, says Tammy. While ARB has been supplying products to New Zealand since the late 1990s, the company has significantly ramped up its presence in the country since October 2019. Through a series of strategic acquisitions and expansions, ARB has established a strong foothold in the New Zealand market, capitalizing on the growing popularity of 4x4 vehicles and outdoor recreation. Tammy says the Hamilton facility’s manufacturing capabilities align with ARB’s global commitment to innovation and quality. The company is renowned for its state-ofthe-art fabrication equipment and machinery, including advanced CNC sheet fabrication facilities, laser cutting, and various welding technologies. This investment in cutting-edge manufacturing processes ensures that the canopies and other products produced in New Zealand meet ARB’s exacting global standards. In addition to vehicle accessories, ARB’s product range in New Zealand includes a com- info@rhodesplant.co.nz 027 356 8170 www.rhodesplant.co.nz Civil • Demolitions • Drainage • Subdivisions • Excavations • Landscaping and responsive, Allied Efficient, professional Concrete are your local READY Mix experts. Make hard easy 0800 222 889 www.alliedconcrete.co.nz REGAL JOINERY 102 Kent Street, Hamilton 07 847 9882 regal.joinery@xtra.co.nz Aluminium Joinery Commercial REGAL Proud to support ARB 4X4 ACCESSORIES aaron@pactsteel.co.nz www.pactsteel.co.nz Proud to Support ARB 4X4 Accessories

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