The Made Series: Made in Melbourne

THE MADE SERIES

In this 5-part series we hone-in on why it’s so important, now, more than ever, to choose Australian-made. We follow the journey of our iconic Volley Rocker being made by hand in Tait’s Melbourne factory; and we step behind Tait’s factory door and meet some of the passionate craftspeople responsible for bringing Tait’s seminal Australian designs to life. Stay in the loop as we bring you each edition week by week.

Gordon Tait, Founding Director of Tait

Coming off the back of a year that has been, and remains to be, turbulent and uncertain, there’s never been a better time to embrace our local makers. During these times, choosing Australian-made goods not only goes a long way in supporting our local economy but also offers peace-of-mind that receiving them is a sure thing. Whilst manufacturing in Australia has its hurdles (namely the high cost of labour and overheads), Australian-made goods continue to be highly sought-after for their quality, longevity, and practical design. As we keep the cogs moving on our home soil, there’s never been anything more certain than choosing Australian-made.

There are many advantages when it comes to choosing Tait’s Australian-made products. The benefit of quick delivery; flexibility of design and colour; exceptional outdoor performance; and world-class quality. These factors have become increasingly important for projects in Australia, with Tait’s products designed to meet rigorous requirements, and in particular to withstand Australia’s extreme outdoor conditions, coastal corrosion, and high UV levels.

Manufacturing 95% of our collections right here in Melbourne has been no easy feat, but a legacy Tait has proudly built over our 28-years. Founding Director, Gordon Tait, states “28 years on, we’re very proud to still be an Australian manufacturer in a sometimes vulnerable industry. We are constantly reminded how special this is from the surprised looks we receive when telling people our products really are made right here in Melbourne”.

“We are constantly reminded how special this is (manufacturing in Australia) from the surprised looks we receive when telling people our products really are made right here in Melbourne”.

GORDON TAIT, FOUNDING DIRECTOR OF TAIT

Trace Dining table and bench, designed by Adam Goodrum.

Gordon continues, “As much as is feasibly possible, we not only strive to source our materials from local suppliers but also manufacture most of our products locally. I never could have dreamed that one day Tait would have grown to house 60 product lines and operate from a 3400 square metre factory in Thomastown, I guess it’s hard to have this foresight as a bright-eyed 25-year-old. But yes, my wife Susan and I are immensely proud of the blueprint we have laid down, demonstrating what’s possible for Australian design and manufacturing, for those emerging. It’s wonderful to watch the Australian design industry grow in recognition internationally, and we are so grateful to be part of its fabric from the early years.”

Stay in the loop – in upcoming editions we follow the journey of our iconic Volley Rocker being made by hand in Tait’s Melbourne factory; and we step behind Tait’s factory door and meet some of the passionate craftspeople responsible for bringing Tait’s seminal Australian designs to life.

Trace Dining table and bench, designed by Adam Goodrum. Also pictured, Drum Planter.

Published 15 February 2021

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