AL-KO International scored a double in the Victoria caravan industry's
Hall of Fame Industry Awards.
The market leader in trailer, caravan and motorhome technology was named
joint Manufacturer of the Year while one of its bosses also received the
Charlie Tebb Service to Industry Award for 2016.
AL-KO shared the Manufacturer of the Year title with New Age Caravans,
becoming the first component manufacturer to receive the prestigious award
which recognises manufacturers for their outstanding business performance
during the last 12 months.
Judges also took into account a wide range of criteria including
manufacturing innovation, business growth achievements, workplace health
and safety initiatives and environmental and community support.
New Age Caravans said it was a "wonderful achievement" for the company and
its chief executive Gabby Montagnese.
AL-KO managing director Peter Mannfolk said his business was honoured to
receive the title.
The past year had been particularly successful in Australia and New
Zealand.
In addition to recent product developments such as its Electronic
Stability Control (ESC), in late 2015 AL-KO invested in additional
state-of-the-art robotics technology to facilitate the launch of the new
AL-KO Enduro Independent Trailing Arm Suspension and ensure quality and
consistency in manufacture.
AL-KO was inducted into the elite Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame
in 2013, an initiative of the Victorian Government that recognises
sustained contribution to manufacturing excellence in Victoria.
Reflecting on what the award meant for AL-KO, Mr Mannfolk said: "This
award proves there has never been a more exciting time to be part of the
AL-KO team.
"We are looking forward to continuing to work with the industry to drive
excellence in manufacturing and product innovation right here in
Australia."
Completing a highly successful night for AL-KO, company director Sven
Mannfolk was also recognised for his significant contribution to the
industry by taking out the Charlie Tebb Service to Industry Award for
2016.
He has overseen rapid and ongoing growth of the company in Australia and
New Zealand driven by product range expansion, innovation and a commitment
to quality.
