Quantum leap forces $3m F&P expansion

By Yoke Har Lee

Brisk demand for Fisher & Paykel's new ovens is leading to a $3 million expansion at its Dunedin manufacturing plant.

The expansion involves its range and dishwasher production facility at Mosgiel, near Dunedin.

The additional expenditure will be financed from the whiteware group's $40 million capital budget.

Richard Blundell, corporate affairs manager for the company, said the company's target was to double its share of the oven market in Australia within 12 months.

Fisher & Paykel had less than 10 per cent of the Australian built-in oven products market. In New Zealand, its share was between 35 and 40 per cent, Mr Blundell said.

The Quantum range of new oven products were launched in the New Zealand market in July/August and a few months later in Australia.

Mr Blundell said the company's Quantum products were now found in most new apartment blocks in the city including Metropolis, Latitude 37 and The Point, and on Princes Wharf.