| 63 RURAL SERVICES » Advantage Plastics Product development and export growth Agright Smart Silos. Kelly Deeks Canterbury-based rotational moulding company Advantage Plastics has been focusing on product development and export growth with the development of innovative on-farm solutions that are making feeding out, calf rearing, and bulk storage safer and more efficient for Kiwi farmers and increasingly, for farmers around the world. Sales and marketing manager Jake Hickmott says the results are already being felt on Kiwi farms and in international markets. “In the past 12 months we’ve really concentrated on our storage and handling equipment, particularly for calf rearing and feed-out systems,” Jake says. “It’s all about making life on farm easier, safer, and more efficient.” Advantage Plastics has recently designed new auger feed-out trailers and portable auger hoppers and these are becoming a increasingly common sight on New Zealand farms, especially during calving season. Designed to be operated from a vehicle, ATV, or side-by-side, these tools give farmers an easier way to handle and dispense meal. “They’re becoming increasingly popular, and we’re even seeing them used for filling drones for fertiliser and spray applications,” Jake says. As farmers shift towards buying meal in bulk, a move that’s more cost-effective and streamlined, Advantage Plastics’ range of storage silos and portable hoppers fits perfectly into this trend, providing safe, hygienic, and efficient bulk storage solutions. The company’s polyethylene products are New Zealand-made, durable, and customisable, attributes highly valued both at home and overseas. “Being New Zealand-made means we can work directly with farmers to give them exactly what they require, whether it’s frame adjustments, colour customisation, or specific fittings,” Jake says. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. We make it fit their needs.” On the export front, Advantage Plastics has made huge strides in the past two years. Their range of portable hoppers are now being shipped not just to Australia and the UK, but also into the United States and Europe. Markets like Canada are also on the radar.“The UK and Europe in particular really value New Zealand-made products,” Jake says. “They recognise the quality and innovation that comes out of our country. It’s been very exciting to see our products performing on the global stage.” Advantage Plastics’ international success has come down to building strong relationships with like-minded dealers. “We wanted dealers who share our drive and P.O. Box 171 | 279B Flaxton Road | Rangiora Phone 03 313 6026 www.transportrangiora.co.nz operations@transportrangiora.co.nz admin@transportrangiora.co.nz 2477565 General Cartage, Containers & Swinglift, Log Cartage, Hiab Crane, Daily Freight, MPI Approved ATF Site, Container Devanning passion, not just for selling products, but for supporting farmers with solutions that make their work safer and more efficient.” With more farmers talking positively about the “Smart” brand, Advantage Plastics is seeing its storage and handling systems gaining recognition New Zealand-wide and globally. The company continues to scale up production of its polyethylene silos, which offer superior hygiene, longevity, and cost efficiency compared to traditional steel silos. “Farmers tell us all the time how our systems save them time, reduce waste, and pay back the investment quickly,” Jake says. “That’s what drives us – creating products that make a real difference on farm.” Advantage Plastics has recently designed new auger feed-out trailers and portable auger hoppers and these are becoming a increasingly common sight on New Zealand farms, especially during calving season.
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