Family firm moves to new premises

Press, 6 May 1983, Page 15

Family firm moves to new premises

The family business of M. J. McKendry, which has specialised in concrete products for nearly four decades, is now in new premises at 216 Annex Road, Middleton.

The business, which was previously located at 26 Talfourd Place (behind Lancaster' Park) has virtually become an institution in Christchurch. Maurice James McKendry began making concrete products in 1944, using an old stable and a boot factory established by his father, Jack.

Pumice chimneys, coppers and tubs were the order of the day. Tubs were made on a suppply and demand basis, selling about 10 a week for $2O (£10). As the workload grew, staff numbers increased and more land was bought to allow expansion. In 1950, the first branch was set up at Washdyke and three years later, the Amberley branch was established. The main function of these two

branches has been to service the fanning community — a need which is still top priority today. When Maurice McKendry died in 1978, his wife, Wyn, and three of their sons, Don, Tony and Terry, took over the running of the business.

“The decision to move from Talfourd Place was made because we realised a more centralised outlet was needed by the public,” Don says.

Concrete water storage tanks, troughs, decorative blocks, culvert pipes, garden incinerators, compost and coal bins, paving slabs and garden furniture and ornaments are the main lines produced by McKendrys. One of the most significant developments in the manufacture of concrete products is the use of polypropylene. This is used to reinforce small products such as troughs.

Another major development is the changed shape

and method of manufacture for concrete water tanks.

The peak-shaped tanks have been replaced by a new dome design, which gives greater storage capacity. Previously, the tanks were hand-trowelled on to fixed formwork and it took between five and six days to complete. The new method reduces this time by half.

The tanks are constructed around an inflatable mould, and reinforced with galvanised wire and mesh. Mortar is sprayed on pneu-

matically and after two layers of mortar have been applied, the mould is deflated and an internal coat of mortar is applied to the inside of the tank. There are no joins and, therefore, less likelihood of leaks.

This method provides for a considerable saving in labour and is also used for the construction of killing and dangerous goods sheds. McKendrys is able to supply these sheds in three different sizes.