Business News

Greater uptake to helmets that minimise fume inhalation

Protecting welders against welding fumes is an ongoing topic of discussion. This is partly because of the importance to maintain welder safety, and partly because of the common law and statutory obligations of employers to do so. The subject is again in the spotlight following the release of findings by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which re-classified welding fumes as “carcinogenic to humans”. (See the reference abstract at The Lancet Oncology) http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(17)30255-3/abstract For employers, the reclassification of welding fumes as “carcinogenic to humans” will spur many to consider changing the type of welding helmets issued to their staff or supplied by sub contractors working in a welding environment on their behalf. Traditional basic welding helmets do provide protection against different intensities of light from arc flash using appropriate shading in welding lenses. They also protect against airborne metallic debris from the grinding process by using a suitable grinding visor, as well as afford the welder physical protection against external hazard. However, the IARC findings will now likely further fuel the need for the use of helmets that also minimise the risks associated with inhaling welding fumes. When assessing such helmets, employers and welders should consider integrated respirator systems that supply positive pressure airflow to reduce heat discomfort experienced from continuous welding. The system should also include filtration that removes particulate, fume and odour. Additionally, the system would include a gas scrubber/filter to remove potentially harmful elements in vapour phase associated directly with the welding activity. These safety features, when combined with a helmet that maximises the viewing area and clarity, offers simple helmet adjustment control or change to a grinding visor function without the need to remove the helmet, will likely help to ensure the welding activity is achieved without forgoing quality and productivity. At EMEX 2018, […]

Kiwi academics develop new food design technique

Two leading academics have developed a new food design technique to help inspire the next generation of culinary designers and make artistic food presentation more accessible to New Zealand restaurants. The new technique developed in consultation with EPIC Otago Polytechnic R & D centre and The Food Design Institute at Otago Polytechnic allows chefs to produce large quantities of artistically designed food products by hand on a commercial scale with a small team, and at reduced cost. Otago Polytechnic’s Timothy Lynch, who and lectures on sustainability in the food industry, says they wanted to present ingredients in a way that was consistent with multisensory food design concepts. “The process involves working with natural products to design handcrafted foods that look identical to fruit and vegetables but are filled with contrasting flavours.” “Initially we couldn’t find a way to make these products on a small scale, but a collaboration with the EPIC helped us overcome several barriers, and we were able to develop a method of crafting the lifelike products using food-grade silicon moulds, which we made ourselves,” he says. Lynch says a project of this scale and complexity would require international assistance and a large team of scientists and food specialists. This would have made the project cost prohibitive by New Zealand industry standards, he says. “Thanks to the ingenuity of some of our colleagues and the dedication of our staff and students we have managed to find a way to bring these food creations to life,”- says Lynch. Senior lecturer Tony Heptinstall who has catered for Prince Charles and other royal family members says one of the objectives was to increase current industry capital through being part of an innovative collaboration between the food industry and education. “We were conscious that to inspire the students we needed to take on […]

Robot couple Xiaolan and Xiaotao carry food at a restaurant in Jinhua

NZ well positioned to be global player in alternative protein market

Eco conscious millennial consumers are reshaping demand for alternative sources of protein according to the country’s largest manufacturer of vegetarian foods. Mark Roper spokesperson for Life Health Foods – which makes plant based Bean Supreme and recently launched Alternative Meat Co. products, says growing concern for the environment is leading this demographic to seek out other options to integrate into their diet. A nationwide survey commissioned by the company has found that millennials aged 18-34 are the most likely demographic to adopt a mostly meat-free lifestyle in the next decade. “Among this age group, factors such as concern for animal welfare and the environment were some of the most important drivers of purchase choice; whereas if you look at older consumers, health considerations and cost of meat were the primary reasons for choosing vegetarian foods,” he says. Roper says New Zealand is well positioned to take advantage of this emerging trend – which has seen accelerated growth in the global meat substitute market. “Our research is showing that many consumers are not completely replacing meat in their diet – instead, they are integrating more meat-free options throughout the week. This makes development of a plant protein market complementary to our existing agricultural exports,” says Roper. He says the new consumer driven trend is something that farmers should not fear, but rather capitalise on. “As a producer we are looking at this growth as a promising future market. As well as a growth industry locally, there is increasing demand for these products in the more well-established markets of the US and Europe where there are potentially large export opportunities for us,” he says. Roper says at the same time, New Zealand is well positioned as a producer nation to capitalise on millennial’s demand for plant based products. “As a country, we […]

Business impacted by oil and gas ban

BusinessNZ says banning new petroleum and gas exploration will have significant implications for New Zealand business. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope said the Government’s decision to continue to recognise existing permits was important, as doing otherwise would have had a potentially devastating effect on investment into New Zealand. “It will be important to see what Government commitment is being made to affected businesses, and how quickly other high value businesses can be developed to fill the void. “Many businesses will be affected by this ban, particularly those using gas. It will likely mean higher gas prices because of the restriction in supply, raising costs for enterprises that use gas for their operations. “Exporters such as Fonterra, NZ Steel, Methanex and Refining NZ may find their products less competitive in world markets. “It is concerning that the ban has been imposed without any consultation with industry. “For the longer term, this decision may raise doubts among investors as to the viability of investing in New Zealand business. If a multi-billion dollar energy industry can be banned, what other industries might face the same fate? “Confidence among both overseas and domestic investors may be the longer-term casualty of today’s decision,” Mr Hope said.

The Show that can’t be missed!

EMEX 2018 can’t be missed, as over 170 international and local exhibitors will inform, delight, entertain and celebrate kiwi design and innovation across the 3 days. There’s also the serious business of putting forward great commercial deals for the manufacturing community. If you’re in Engineering, Manufacturing or Electronics then you really need to visit this free event to best position your business with the latest technology on offer. DISCOVER – what not to miss! World leading automated and robotic plasma cutting systems, designed and build right here in New Zealand for local and international markets by Plazmax in Rotorua, is highlighting the Kiwi Made Innovation feature at EMEX 2018 showcasing 3 separate automated plasma cutting systems, bringing both new and improved innovation to the market. Plazmax will be showcasing their world class capabilities with live demonstrations for all interested parties. After their introduction at SouthMACH 2017, Caliber Design and Locus Research are back at EMEX 2018 and proud to present some amazing examples of collaborative product design in the newly created Innovation Quarter. The products on display at EMEX 2018; the Stabicraft 1600 Fisher, the Ubco 4 x 4 bike and the 2018 Oscar winning Shotover Camera System, are the result of an intensive interaction during the entire product development process. You’ll be impressed by what you’ll see! ENGAGE – Find the right people for the job The Employment and Training Hub will provide you with the opportunity to discuss the well documented skills shortages in the industry with experts from M.I.T and Competenz. As a manufacturer or engineering company this is your chance to learn more about these highly successful programs. You’ll have your chance to engage potential apprentices who have chosen a career in technology by signing up for the ’speed meets’ that are organised during EMEX 2018. […]

Why a highly-skilled workforce is critical for success

Fiona Kingsford. “While employers may not be able to protect jobs from automation, we can collectively be responsible for protecting our people and preparing them for change through ongoing training and reskilling.” Ensuring staff have the right skills now and in the future is vital for the sustainability, productivity and global competitiveness of New Zealand’s manufacturing industry. Fiona Kingsford, chief executive of industry training organisation Competenz, says industrial changes, innovations and automation are changing the number and types of jobs in New Zealand and, more critically, the sort of knowledge and skills people in the industry need to develop. “We know that unqualified and low-skilled positions are predicted to have the highest probability of replacement by computerisation or machines. It’s challenging to keep up with the changes, let alone anticipate the workforce requirements to respond. “While employers may not be able to protect jobs from automation, we can collectively be responsible for protecting our people and preparing them for change through ongoing training and reskilling.” Data from economic research organisation Infometrics shows the manufacturing sector will need to find more than 12,000 people by 2022 to predominantly replace workers who retire or leave. Approximately half of the workforce has no post-school qualification. Training and education are essential for responding to rapidly advancing technology, succession planning and ongoing profitability and competitive advantage. “Through our ongoing dialogue with businesses, there is concern within the manufacturing sector about the lack of team leaders and tradespeople who possess managerial skills,” Kingsford says. “This is highly-relevant to workforce development as research consistently highlights that there is a link between quality of management and the productivity of the business.” Competenz works with more than 3,500 companies around New Zealand and more than 26,000 trainees and apprentices – more than 4,000 of those in the […]

EMEX 2018 – The biggest in decades

More than 150 international and local exhibitors will inform, delight, entertain and celebrate kiwi design and innovation across the three days. There’s also the serious business of putting forward great commercial deals for the manufacturing community. If you’re in Engineering, Manufacturing or Electronics then you really need to visit this free event to best position your business with the latest technology on offer. This year will see more machines onsite at EMEX than previously. New Zealand’s leading CNC suppliers are going all out to showcase their latest products and machining technology. In addition, exhibitors from the world of industrial automation will be displaying Robotics that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry. The top NZ suppliers are set to wow visitors with a range of automation solutions that will deliver your business efficiencies and the ability to compete on a global scale. One of the key features of EMEX 2018 is the comprehensive free seminar program. “on all 3 days of the show there are informative and thought-provoking sessions covering topics ranging from Advanced Manufacturing (incl. 3D printing), Industry 4.0, Collaborative Product Design, skill shortages in the industry and how to address these as well as Practical solutions for implementation of Health & Safety practices, all presented by some of the most respected experts in their field Kiwi Design & Manufacturing Innovation – Close up The addition of an extra exhibiting hall sees the introduction of an Innovation Quarter with the featured presence of the Stabicraft 1600 Fisher brought to EMEX by Stabicraft and Caliber Design, an engineering, analysis, and mechanical design consultancy. Jonathan Prince, Director at Caliber Design says, “this is a brilliant example of collaborative product design where in order to compete globally New Zealand businesses have had to innovate and collaborate to make collective gains. “The […]

Regions get boost with Provincial Growth Fund

The $1 billion Provincial Growth Fund launched by the Government will give New Zealand’s regions a boost and help unlock the potential of our rural and smaller centres, Local Government New Zealand says. The Provincial Growth Fund, launched in Gisborne today by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Minister for Regional Economic Development Shane Jones, detailed the Government’s plans to help New Zealand’s regions maximise their opportunities to boost local economies. New Zealand’s regions are significant contributors to the economy but a range of factors including population and technological changes mean some have struggled. While in recent times economic growth has returned to some areas, this has been uneven and has led to stark discrepancies between sometimes neighbouring regions. LGNZ President Dave Cull says the country’s economic growth strategy needs to consider the nation as a whole and the Government’s commitment to much greater investment in regions is a welcome step. The Fund aims to enhance economic development opportunities, create sustainable jobs, contribute to community well-being, lift the productivity potential of regions, and help meet New Zealand’s climate change targets. “Revitalising the regions, especially those that are not seeing some of the growth others are experiencing, will have benefits not just for those areas but also for the rest of the country,” Mr Cull says. “National success, and achieving our goals of strong and vibrant communities, relies on realising the full economic potential of all regions.” Doing this is a complex task that requires a partnership between local and central government, communities and the private sector. The Provincial Growth Fund acknowledges the important role of local communities in deciding where and how to invest, and LGNZ will work with councils to ensure communities get the most from the Fund. “The approach the Government is taking, with a genuine intent to […]

New education programme to support Kiwi entrepreneurship

Aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike will see their business ideas reach new heights thanks to two high-profile business leaders who have developed an entrepreneurial education programme to put New Zealand at the top of the world map when it comes to innovation. This month, the Practical Innovation and Entrepreneurship Paper – an online course for Kiwis striving for success built around The Periodic Table of Innovation – launches out of an innovation hub at Auckland University of Technology. Co-founded by AUT Adjunct Professor and former advertising expert Mike ‘the Hutch’ Hutcheson, and educator, business mentor and inspirational speaker Catherine Newton, the Paper will give Kiwis the opportunity to ‘think differently’. “We want to help New Zealanders turn an idea into a tangible business model. We designed this course to provide business insight and practical tools to launch into the world of entrepreneurship,” says Hutcheson. “Kiwis are not short of great ideas, but they are short of being able to implement and commercialise their ideas. Our geographic isolation and ability to attract funding are some of the reasons behind not being able to develop scalable businesses that create jobs,” Hutcheson adds. The Practical Innovation and Entrepreneurship Paper (ENTR770) welcomed its first official intake of students on 14 March, following its successful pilot programme in 2017. Just 12 weeks in length, the course arms participants with practical skills to test, develop and bring a business idea to life, or develop an existing entrepreneurial idea or business. Newton, responsible for co-creation and delivery of the course training modules, is driven to inspire, educate and empower students – with a strong focus on helping women reach a level playing field. Newton, who holds a Bachelor of Education Degree and Diploma of Teaching, as well as 20 years’ experience running her own businesses, draws on […]

Innovate or Die

Hamish Whyte, CEO, Furnware. Innovation is the buzz word these days, but how and what to innovate in your business or product range is often a difficult decision. Two things stand out; asking questions and listening to the answers of course. And passion, as you will find out in the interview I had with Hamish Whyte CEO of Furnware, a school furniture manufacturer with less than 40 employees when they started the innovation process. Q What was it that sparked the quest for a new design? Furnware was very aware that humans as a whole were all changing physically. We knew that students were bigger and taller than they used to be. Avoiding the race to the bottom (of price and quality) we wanted to create a differentiation of product from the market – NZ economies of scale cannot compete with larger economies. We wanted to create a product that had an emphasis on: Design – that was fit for purpose, school furniture to assist with teaching and learning and children’s development. Quality. Q What were the first steps you took? Furnware owner Hamish Whyte travelled the world, attending international furniture shows to learn what the world is doing We discovered furniture trends and were confident that we were as close, if not closer, to customers than most companies and as a result we didn’t feel intimidated by international design. We liaised with academia, including Unitec industrial designer Murray Pilcher. The rest is history. Q What convinced you that you were onto something good? Murray asked us, “Tell me about your customers” – and we realised that we had their customers all wrong. It wasn’t about the teachers, it was about the kids. This question started a journey to true student-centric thinking. To answer this question, we realised we needed […]

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