Chris Zapris wins handsomely in the competitive, merit-based Government grant programme to supercharge growth at his PMI Imageworks enterprise in Melbourne’s Moreland.
“We are humbled to be recognised for the hard work in establishing our new division, PMI ImageWorks. Our growth will now be accelerated to create additional capacity and sustainable jobs in Melbourne northern suburbs,” said Zapris, well known as an industry pioneer in web-to-print.
According to a Government press release, the grant will enable PMI to undertake a $6.1 million project, which will fund capital equipment to increase the company's share in the market for digital to-consumer products. The project will rapidly expand the company and generate 110 jobs, building on PMI ImageWorks’ existing workforce of about 30 professional staff.
Federal Minister for Industry Ian Macfarlane, said the grant, part of Melbourne’s North Innovation and Investment Fund (MNIIF) $24.5 million, is good news for the Australian manufacturing industry and great news for Melbourne’s manufacturing community in the northern suburbs.
“The PMI project is an example of the type of innovative and high-tech investment in equipment that will allow Australian industry to transition into the advanced manufacturing sector.
“Melbourne’s north has faced significant challenges recently. But these new investments are a show of confidence in the region and in the change of direction that is taking place in manufacturing which can be a catalyst for new jobs,” said Mr Macfarlane.
“Under MNIIF, the Federal Government is partnering with Victoria and Ford Australia to help entrepreneurial businesses like PMI undertake new job-creating projects.”
Dr Napthine, during a visit to PMI ImageWorks today, said the company was one of Melbourne’s many success stories with the local innovative business going from strength to strength.
“Established by the PMI Corporation in 2011, PMI ImageWorks is a sophisticated printing company whose mission is to become Australia’s most technologically advanced digital printer,” Dr Napthine said.
“PMI is a leader in this hi-tech industry and a company with a lean structure and flexible production techniques to enable tight turnaround times.
“These new investments in manufacturing show just how capable Victoria is when it comes to driving innovation in advanced manufacturing and services.”