European manufacturer Vadain International is revitalising Logan City’s textile industry with a A$2 million investment.
Vadain, a privately owned Dutch Company with over 30 years of experience in custom window furnishings, made its first investment of A$1 million in 2014 to establish its sole presence in Australia: a manufacturing facility in Logan City, Brisbane. The investment was critical to the local economy, creating 45 jobs after the closure of a significant textile manufacturing company and giving jobseekers opportunities to find a similarly skilled role with Vadain.
Vadain has since invested an additional A$1 million in the facility, further securing jobs into the future with a focus on innovation. The company uses advanced production equipment to produce custom-made window furnishings, servicing the growing needs of Australians to personalise their home with bespoke fabric, styles and sizes. This technology improves efficiencies and reduces cost, supporting a strong supply to national retailers, with a view to globally expand and export Australia-made window coverings to New Zealand, Singapore and Malaysia.
The company chose Australia due to suppliers and availability of skilled workers. Director of Vadain International, Arjen Hoekman, says they made several visits to get an idea of market structure, labour and the availability of skilled people.
Community investment is at the heart of Vadain’s business model. Logan City is benefiting from Vadain’s decision to source as much local product as possible, using fabric from an Australian retailer and engaging a Brisbane-based business to service and maintain machines in the facility.
Vadain’s long-term investment in Australia’s textile industry is supported by the company’s commitment to the community, including offering work experience to local students in the region.