‘Green’ products supplier powers ahead

In July 2009, around 900 new “green” jobs were expected to be created through the rapid expansion of AllSafe Franchising Pty Ltd - AllSafe Energy Efficient Products .

Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan opened a new national administration centre for Allsafe Energy Efficient Products in Brisbane in July 2009 and commented that the company’s rapid expansion was a direct result of the Government’s economic stimulus packages.

“Allsafe is a Townsville-based company that is employing new staff daily, promotes sustainability and is clear proof that the Rudd Government’s stimulus package and climate change policies are supporting local jobs,” Mr Swan said.

“Allsafe has made it clear that their rapid growth – and the new jobs this has created - are a direct result of the Government’s Solar Homes & Communities Plan and the $4.3 billion Energy Efficient Homes Package.”

The energy efficient products franchise network is powering ahead for two particular reasons, says Allsafe Managing Director Sean Cochrane.

“The first reason is the very strong environmental and financial motivation for Australian households and business to become much more energy conscious and find ways to reduce their energy consumption,” Mr Cochrane said.

“The second reason is that the Commonwealth Government, through its solar homes and energy efficient homes packages, has helped make this goal much more achievable.

“Allsafe continues to drive the highest uptake of solar installations seen in the Australian community through the uptake of the $8000 rebate for households installing solar panels.

“It has resulted in a win for the environment, a win for the Australian community and local jobs, and a win for Australian business as it moves quickly to satisfy this new demand.”

In the 18 months leading up to the new franchise opening, Allsafe opened six new retails franchises and employed over 100 new staff.

“Whilst this in itself is a good story, it is what's to come that is particularly exciting,” Mr Cochrane said.

He explained that with the continued support of the Federal Government, Allsafe plans to create 52 new Allsafe retail franchises across Queensland, Australian and New Zealand.

“This will result in a total of 936 new direct green jobs for the Australian economy, with 342 this financial year.

“Each franchise will generate an average 18 new jobs and will help develop strong local economies through joint purchasing arrangements and business partnerships with other local businesses, as well as sub-suppliers and contract employees.”

Mr Cochrane paid tribute to the industry cluster development work undertaken by Townsville City Council and its consultant, international industry cluster expert Rodin Genoff.

“The government gave us the opportunity, but the terrific assistance we received both from Townsville City Council and Rodin Genoff enabled us to take full advantage of it.’