The Remarkable Journey of FWR Pty Ltd

FWR Pty Ltd commenced business in 2013 as a “one man operation” when Arron MacCue saw an opportunity to make extra money whilst maintaining his employment as a boilermaker welder in Brisbane, Queensland. Working into the late hours of the night, in a workshop not much larger than the family garage, Arron impressed his small customer base, with his attention to detail, competitive pricing; (after all there were little to no overheads) and his commitment to delivering quality on time.

Fast forward 10 years, and while juggling the responsibilities of a young family, Arron continues to see opportunities and continues to impress a much larger customer base. From a general fabrication workshop, meeting the needs of small sole traders, FWR has now forged itself as a leading manufacturer of heavy haulage trailers, with its brand recognised nationwide. FWR, driven by the business acumen of Arron, made calculated decisions to grow. Growth, not only by reputation but physical growth. Four relocations later, FWR presently works out of a 3500m² Rocklea facility. But its proven just not big enough for the opportunities that exist.

Defying the odds that see the vast majority of small businesses fail within 2 years of commencing, the escalation of FWR continues, building into a medium size business employing 50 staff and experiencing an ever-increasing turnover. Presently manufacturing in excess of 350 heavy haulage trailers per year while continuing the general fabrication assignments, servicing the local resource mining industry along with the Australian division of international companies, FWR’s expansive growth has come with its challenges. Showing resilience through floods and pandemics, which saw many businesses, some larger, many smaller succumb to the challenges presented, FWR powered on. The challenges have not deterred further growth. FWR is in the process of yet another move; no less than 11,000 m² under roof at Larapinta in Brisbane’s south with the capacity to increase production to 500 units in the immediate future and a projected rise to in excess of 1000 units in coming years.

Incorporating 7 dual lift overhead cranes, 3 spray booths with baking function, large sandblasting booth, CNC brake press, a machine shop and 80 staff, the Larapinta facility opens yet a further opportunity for FWR to diverse into other facets of steel manufacturing.

Despite the expenditure on equipment and infrastructure, to require less reliance on outsourcing processes, keeping production costs to a minimum, FWR continues to maintain sustainable relationships with its preferred suppliers that have worked hard with FWR to assist in manufacturing its quality products. Utilising local suppliers and distributers, FWR plays its part in supporting Australian manufacturing whilst providing the assurance to its customers of quality Australian product with the ability to provide continual accessible aftersales care.

So, just as they did 10 years ago, Arron and FWR continue to seek out opportunities. Opportunities in the market, opportunities for growth. But also offers opportunities. Opportunities to suppliers, contractors and employees to be part of the journey that is FWR.

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