Pacific Steel Innovation Champ at Fletcher Building Awards

Pacific Steel crowns a Champion of Innovation at Fletcher Building Awards

Vishwa Reddy, Pacific Steel’s Fiji Rolling Mill Manager was awarded the Champion of Innovation at the inaugural Fletcher Building Innovation Awards, held on 3rd of November at Eden Park, Auckland. The award was jointly shared with Travis Griffin from Stramit Building Products. Reddy’s entry showcased an eclectic mix of innovations, cost saving and health & safety initiatives over the course of his eleven years he has been with the Pacific Steel Rolling Mill based in Fiji.

In 2004, the mill needed to replace their 6000 litre waste oil tank. By purchasing a used tank from BP for $1.00 and refurbishing it in-house for $6,000 the company saved $40,000. Similar savings were made in 2008, when a temporary lathe was made on-site to refurbish a commutator. The commutator now draws fewer amps which reduces Fiji’s electricity grid load, reducing energy costs. Eleven examples were provided to the judging panel of initiatives that were led by Reddy.

From a total of 74 entries across 6 different categories, the Champion of Innovation Award is the only category that acknowledged the efforts of an individual employee.

Judge and CEO of the ICEHOUSE, Andy Hamilton said that “Vishwa Reddy stood out as a champion of innovation. Not just one example, but many examples built up over years of innovating for Pacific Steel and their customers. Working with very little resources, acting with leadership and just getting things done - truly a great champion, the examples of his innovations are fantastic”. Champions in their own field, the independent judging panel also included: Murray Jack, Chief Executive of Deloitte, Richard Aitken, Chairman of Beca Group Ltd and Alan Jackson, Non-Executive Director of Fletcher Building.

About Pacific Steel Group

A Fletcher Building Company, Pacific Steel Group produces SeismicTM reinforcing bar, coil and wire from 95% recycled content. Pacific Steel also produces WiremarkTM fencing wire, used by fencing contractors and farmers. From high-rise to high-way Pacific Steel product is used through-out New Zealand ensuring that our fences, roads, bridges, and buildings are reinforced to the highest possible standard.

Our Environment

90,000 car bodies and scrap metal combine to total more than 300,000 tonnes of scrap each year, making Pacific Steel Group the largest recycler in New Zealand. All Pacific Steel products carry the Environmental Choice logo and Green Building Council Credits in Australia and New Zealand.

ENDS

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