Glassworks: Innovating with Excellence in Glass Processing

Glassworks Aust. has emerged as a distinguished name in the glass processing industry. Established in 2007, founded by Michael Gleeson and majority-owned by the Schiavello Group, Glassworks has gained a reputation for delivering high-quality glass solutions. This fully Australian-owned company, with over 100 employees, demonstrates the success of assembling the right team focussed on local innovation.

Glassworks operates from a semi-automated 20,000-square-metre facility in Dandenong South, Victoria and has a full product offering and processing capabilities but specialises in energy efficient double glazing and custom laminated products.

Glassworks General Manager Michael Kruger highlights the company's commitment to innovation. "We've grown rapidly and invested significantly in state-of-the-art equipment and technology to improve our efficiencies, have redundancy in our process allowing us to provide a high level of service and quality for our customers," he explains.

He says their main focus now is on the double-glazing market, particularly following the 7 star, National Construction Code changes that will effectively mandate double-glazing for new builds.

Kruger notes this regulatory shift is driving demand for high-performance insulated glazing, including units that utilise a self-cleaning LowE glass on the external lite and a room side coating on the internal lite known as i89. Other emerging trends include the adoption of warm edge spacers for enhanced thermal efficiency.

Glassworks' expertise in handling complex soft coats on glass further supports their ability to stay ahead of market demands. While sensitive and prone to damage throughout the manufacturing process, these coatings require advanced equipment and meticulous automated handling. This precision ensures the highest quality products, making Glassworks a preferred supplier for many residential window fabricators in Victoria.

Kruger highlights the significance of their partnership with Elegant I.G., Australia's leading supplier of insulated glass consumables. This relationship, spanning 15 years, has aided Glassworks' growth and operational efficiency. "Elegant I.G. has been a supportive partner since our early days," Kruger remarks. "As a family-run business, they understood our challenges as we scaled up. They've provided flexibility and consistently accommodated our needs, even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic supply chain shortages."

Elegant I.G.'s commitment to customer service mirrors Glassworks' ethos. This shared approach has forged a strong, long-term partnership. Kruger recalls instances where Elegant I.G. went above and beyond, such as air freighting critical supplies during the pandemic. "They don't just aim to profit from every order; they focus on building relationships. They ensure we have sufficient stock, even for unforecasted requirements, and their responsiveness has been crucial in keeping our operations running smoothly."

The partnership's strength extends beyond supply logistics. Elegant I.G. continuously seeks the latest innovations and high-quality solutions in the global market, sharing valuable knowledge and resources with Glassworks. This collaboration has facilitated access to international expertise and cutting-edge technology, enhancing Glassworks' production capabilities and operational efficiency.

Elegant I.G. has proactively adapted its business model to serve its customers better. Their expansion into a Melbourne warehouse has enabled same-day supply, a significant improvement in service for Glassworks and other Victorian insulated glazing manufacturers.

Kruger also highlights the invaluable support from Elegant I.G.'s leadership, particularly in industry association participation and knowledge sharing. "Sandro and his team keep us informed about industry developments and building standards, which is invaluable while we focus on running the business. They provide more than just products; they bring expertise and insights to help us stay ahead."

Glassworks' long-standing relationship with Elegant I.G. exemplifies a synergistic collaboration beyond traditional supplier-customer dynamics, fostering a shared vision for excellence in the glass processing industry. As both companies continue to invest in technology and knowledge, they are well-positioned to meet the market's evolving demands and support their customers' growth.

Glassworks is a 100 percent Australian owned glass processing operation that manufactures and sources quality glass products for commercial and residential clients.
www.glassworksaust.com