Melbourne digital printer PMI ImageWorks will embark on a $6.1m expansion plan, including promising to add 110 new staff, after winning a $2.6m government grant yesterday.
The Moreland-based firm currently has about 30 staff, meaning the investment will massively expand the size of its business and operations in high-tech digital-to-consumer printing, assuming all 110 jobs the government says the project will lead to are realised.
Chief executive Chris Zapris says the company is humbled to be recognised for the hard work in establishing its new division.
“Our growth will now be accelerated to create additional capacity and sustainable jobs in Melbourne’s northern suburbs,” he says.
PMI benefits from the Federal and Victorian Governments and Ford Australia’s $24.5m Melbourne’s North Innovation and Investment Fund, a scheme set up to encouraging new investment in the region in the wake of Ford’s pull out from Australia by 2016, with 300 job losses expected by the end of this year alone.
Federal Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane says the PMI project is an example of the type of innovative and high-tech investment in equipment that will allow Australian industry to transition into the advanced manufacturing sector.
“Melbourne’s north has faced significant challenges recently. But these new investments are a show of confidence in the region and in the change of direction that is taking place in manufacturing which can be a catalyst for new jobs,” he says.
“The MNIIF will help entrepreneurial businesses like PMI undertake new job creating projects during this transition period.”
Victorian Premier Denis Napthine says PMI is a sophisticated printing company thats mission is to become Australia’s most technologically advanced digital printer.
“PMI is a leader in this hi-tech industry and a company with a lean structure and flexible production techniques to enable tight turnaround times,” he says.
More information as it becomes available.
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