50 years of manufacturing in Christchurch

15 March 2013
Media Release

Winstone Wallboards celebrate 50years of manufacturing in Christchurch.

Christchurch-based manufacturer Winstone Wallboards (WWB) celebrated 50 years of business in the Canterbury region last night.

Key clients from across Canterbury were invited to help celebrate the milestone.

Preceding formal celebrations, guests were invited to tour the factory and see the recent developments made as a response to the Canterbury earthquakes.

“The tour was amazing. I never realised the intricate processes involved in the manufacture of GIB® plasterboard. It was great to see a Christchurch factory working so hard to help the city get back on its feet”, said party guest Becki Lake.

“The event went off without a hitch, it was great to be part of something so positive. 50 years is a long time, and I hope to be part of many more years to come. Everyone had a great time”, said WWB Area Sales Manager, Clara Sumner.

Guests heard how the well known GIB® brand is supporting the Canterbury re-build by working closely with engineers from the University of Canterbury over the last 12 months to develop improved building systems for earthquake-prone commercial buildings.

Sumner continues “We’ve learnt a lot and our products are specifically designed to address what we’ve learnt, not only in a commercial space but also in our own homes. Our products are designed and made in Christchurch for New Zealand conditions”.

As a result of the earthquake rebuild demands, WWB has increased its capacity by 25 per cent at their Opawa plant, with more than 50 staff and contractors now working on the site.

The company plans to continue its commitment to Canterbury, increasing manufacturing and logistics staff by a further 10-20 per cent over the next year subject to the market demand.

The event was hosted by well known Cantabrian Gary McCormick.

ENDS

Further information:
Winstone Wallboards Ltd is New Zealand's largest manufacturer and marketer of gypsum plasterboard, drywall systems, associated products and services. The company has been operating since 1927 and manufactures plasterboard systems under the GIB® brand name. Winstone Wallboards Ltd has facilities in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

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