As it approaches its 10-year anniversary, Australian switchboard manufacturer Border Switchboards Sheetmetal & Powdercoating (BSSP) is expanding into Southeast Queensland, establishing a second facility to support continued business growth and better service customers across Queensland and Papua New Guinea.
The expansion follows several years of strong growth for BSSP, which has outgrown its existing 4,300 sqm facility in Albury, NSW, and now employs close to 150 staff, some of whom will relocate to the new facility to help with a smooth transition.
“Our team is operating with all hands on deck, and our facility is at capacity, so rather than opening another premises close to home, we decided to establish our new facility in Southeast Queensland, where we have room to grow for the long term while maintaining strong lead times for customers,” says Brennan Jenvey, Director, BSSP, who will lead the new Queensland operation.
“We already do some work in Brisbane and Papua New Guinea, so the Queensland facility will allow us to better support those customers while also creating opportunities to take on new projects as the region continues to grow,” he adds.
By using VeCab modular switchboards, BSSP can deliver projects across a wide range of sectors, from apartment developments and hospitals through to water treatment plants and major infrastructure projects.
The new BSSP facility will also feature the same sheetmetal, powder coating and electrical capabilities from day one, giving the company greater control over lead times across complete switchboard builds.
BSSP sees Southeast Queensland as an important long-term growth market, supported by ongoing population growth, infrastructure investment and future projects associated with the 2032 Olympic Games.
“I think a lot of businesses will be looking at the opportunities that come with Queensland’s continued growth and the investment leading up to the Olympics,” says Jenvey.
“By establishing ourselves early, we can build relationships, support local customers and be well positioned for future projects as the region continues to develop beyond the Games.”
Building confidence
A key part of winning new business in a new location is earning the trust and confidence of the local market, and Jenvey sees NESMA as playing an important role.
“NESMA has given us great industry contacts, so we can talk to people who have expanded into new states and seek their advice,” he says.
“New customers see a company with a 10-year history, a portfolio of substantial projects and active membership of NESMA, and that goes a long way towards inspiring confidence and winning jobs.”
“We’re also noticing much greater market awareness and acceptance of the AS 61439 series of standards covering low-voltage switchgear and controlgear. There is a strong focus on ensuring projects are standards-compliant, and that’s something BSSP has always prioritised.”
The new BSSP facility will be based in Corbould Park on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2026.
“We are all excited about the expansion. By sharing the workload across both facilities, we can improve lead times, support our existing customers more effectively and continue growing our capabilities well into the future,” concludes Jenvey.
