In an industry event held last night, Irizar Asia Pacific has officially launched its new Melbourne warehouse.
The warehouse is based in Pakenham, with Irizar welcoming a large number of industry attendees, ranging from suppliers and OEM partners to operator customers and industry supporters.
Irizar Asia Pacific also welcomed Irizar Group CEO Imanol Rego and Hispacold managing director Roberto Recuerda Hernandez at the launch.
Irizar Asia Pacific managing director Steve Heanes thanked the crowd for taking time to attend the opening and see the large new space.
“Since Irizar Asia Pacific has been in Australia, we’re strived to do the very best that we can and the learning curve was steep,” Heanes said.
“We’ve now accomplished great things.”
Heanes joined Irizar as managing director in 2021, bringing his OEM experience to the Australian distributor and helping grow the brand.
In 2022, Irizar Asia Pacific delivered 121 units, including its 1000th vehicle to Kangaroo Bus Lines in Queensland, to finish with 20.6 per cent market share in the above 10.8m long and high-floor segment.
From number four in the body market, 2023 allowed Irizar to excel despite many external challenges presenting themselves.
“2023 was a tough year for the company and for a lot of our people, as we faced a lot of hurdles that tested the resolve of many,” Heanes said.
“Our determination helped us exceed budget forecasts, as we broke a record by delivering 171 units in 2023 and gaining 25.2 per cent market share in our segment.
“I’m very proud that we did this with two models, rather than having 10 to 12 different models.”
Now sitting in number three in the body builder market and winning a Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) supplier of the year award, the new facility will allow Irizar to launch into 2024.
While continuing to support the Hispacold brand in Australia and persevere through external challenges, Heanes and the Irizar team is looking forward to another exciting year off the back of its new warehouse launch.
“This year has started with a bang and it could be one of the stronger years that we have had,” Heanes said.
“I’m very proud of the position we’re in now. We have some exciting new projects on the way to Australia that will be ably supported by our new site.”
For more info, check out ABC‘s April magazine for a feature on Irizar’s new warehouse.