A Better Place To Do Business For DLG

A BETTER PLACE TO DO BUSINESS FOR DLG

In 2020, for the first time in DLG Aluminium and Glazing’s 25-year history, co-owner and operator Leanne Luhrs faced the uncertainty of how COVID-19 restrictions would impact DLG’s operations. ‘The pandemic caused staff shortages and workflow pressures, and we knew this was not a sustainable business model. Our management team decided we needed to seek professional advice for the good of our company’s future.’

DLG sought assistance from Business NSW via the ‘Entrepreneurs' Programme’. All aspects of the DLG business were placed under a microscope, and the most significant concern identified was workflow within the factory; specifically, the frequent double-handling of glass and aluminium products due to the layout and lack of space which is overcrowded with machines, materials, and staff.

‘The factory is also located in a semi-residential zone,’ explains Leanne. ‘This has created havoc with neighbouring residents and parking for our staff. We have been restricted on operational hours due to noise considerations. It soon became clear that moving to a purpose-built factory would be hugely beneficial for our immediate and long-term survival.’

In July 2020, DLG began to search for a new site, and some months later purchased land at Airside North; one of the last large ‘heavy industrial’ blocks of land left with no restrictions on operation hours. ‘We chose a corner block, so we could use the frontage for a large office facade and use the side for visitor cars and truck access. It also faces South, providing the best opportunity to locate the showroom for energy efficiency’, says Leanne. ‘Our new facility wish-list included two overhead cranes running the entire length, a large awning to prevent weather from entering the factory when roller doors are up, undercover parking for several cars, separated amenities in case of another pandemic, large open showroom, and facilities to allow DLG to become an equal opportunity employer and somewhere people really want to come and work.’

DLG were fortunate to find a local designer who understood the needs of the large glazing business and allowed the DLG team to have input into the design. They also worked with a Lean Consultant for the factory layout and worked very closely with the shed structure supplier to determine the best height and width to achieve a great outcome in the most cost-effective way. Leanne explains, ‘this relocation is about future-proofing our business, but also futureproofing the building assets, such as the shed and showroom’.

DLG is excited about the new factory’s ability to meet their future needs and growth, factoring in additional office space which could potentially be leased out if required. They hope to move into their brand new facility by Christmas 2022. ‘I am sure that once we move in, some areas might not be perfect, but we have carefully considered so many aspects of the build, that I think it will be close! 25 years in the industry makes you pretty savvy about what you need and want. We have left nothing in reserve and gone all-in to create an outstanding facility that will see us well into the future and provide an exceptional facility for DLG staff.’