National network

Press, 29 May 1984, Page 23

National network

The Wakefield Metal Co., Ltd, began when Mr Roy Messenger, then with the Department of Trade and Industry in Wellington, saw the opportunity for the distribution of non-ferrous metals in the South Island. With the help of Mr S, Hirschfeld, a director of the Metal Import Companies in the North Island and under the management of the late Mr Ray Hendry, business commenced in August 1946. From very humble beginnings, faith, hope and teamwork have combined to advance the company into a position of major importance in the manufacturing and farming community with six branches spread throughout the South Island. Close liaison with the Metal Import Companies in the North Island assumes a corporate image, and a network of 18 warehouses under the Mico Wakefield banner has been established throughout New Zealand to make it the largest stockist of nonferrous metals, stainless steel, plastics and fasteners in the country.

A fully integrated telex network and an on-line computer stock control system provides instant access to stock data in all distribution centres. However, each Mico Wakefield branch is relatively autonomous and therefore is responsive and adaptable to the needs of that community as well as having the back-up of the other main centres for less common articles or sizes. The Christchurch warehouse complex offers a vast range of non-ferrous metals such as aluminium, brass, copper and stainless steel in various forms of sheet, tube or extrusions, together with a full range of P.V.C. products for roofing, water reticulation, irrigation and drainage. A comprehensive fasteners division has nuts, bolts, screws and rivets for every purpose. The group’s involvement with aluminium became even stronger several years ago when it formed a joint company with Edenlite of the United Kingdom to manufacture and distribute

aluminium glasshouses throughout New Zealand. Edenlite Garden Products (N.Z.) Ltd is now wholly New Zealand owned and has emerged as a market leader in its field with a substantial and growing contribution to New Zealand’s export drive. Edenlite pioneered the use of aluminium frames for glasshouses, with each piece of the frame being specially designed for maximum strength and durability. Built-in special features include full-length gutters and condensation channels plus the correct angle for the roof to attract the maximum benefit of any available sun. The conservatory is a most elegant addition to any home, affording the convenience of additional living space within what is virtually an indoor garden. Information is available from any of the distributing agents throughout New Zealand or from the Disraeli Street warehouse in Christchurch