Masport's mower skills cut new deal

By YOKE HAR LEE

Mt Wellington-based Masport has clinched a multimillion-dollar deal to make lawnmowers for Stihl, a global outdoor power equipment supplier.

The contract is seen as a strategic business alliance, helping Masport to further its international business ambitions through Stihl's retail network.

Masport managing director John Lawson said Stihl lawnmowers, which were sold under the Viking brand, had high specifications and would be sold in Australia and New Zealand.

The number of mowers being manufactured would be reviewed annually.

Stihl managing director David Millar said: "We have been impressed with the way Masport has developed its products and business in recent years.

"This alliance opens the door to the future strategic business opportunities for the two companies in Australasia and worldwide."

He said the relationship with Masport would enable Stihl to supply its dealers with a quality product at the right price, and create opportunities to develop sales in Australasia.

Masport, known for its lawnmowers, barbecue stoves and woodfires, has been gearing up to "export" more of its expertise.

The foundry division this year signed a multimillion-dollar deal to supply suspension components for a new Falcon car in Australia.

Masport, which exports about 50 per cent of its consumer products, sells to about 30 countries.

Australia is its largest foreign market.

It was expecting export growth of about 20 per cent annually, Mr Lawson said.

Stihl products are mostly supplied from Europe. The company does not have a production base in Asia or the Pacific.