Welcome to this special episode of @AuManufacturing Conversations with Brent Balinski, one which we're running as part of our quest to identify Australia’s 50 Most Innovative Manufacturers.

The 50 Most Innovative is an annual campaign by @AuManufacturing. This time around it has been made possible through the generous support of MYOB, CSIRO, the NSW government’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility, and the Commonwealth Bank.

In this episode we hear from Ben Chapman, Managing Director of Australian Turntable Company. He tells us about the regional Victorian company's recent expansion into the US and India, the sense of responsibility attached to a respected SME business, the impending launch of its very-first business-to-consumer product, and more.

Episode guide

1:01 — started work at ATC as soon as he finished school. The business started when he was about 13 or 14.  

2:15 – An introduction to the company and what it does. 

3:25 – Once they understood what they did, it opened up more opportunities.

4:16 – Where their turntables might be seen.

5:28 – The origin story.

7:02 – Getting started in the Yellow Pages era.

8:10 – Early work as a hire business serving motor shows, and why that industry was a great starting place.

10:15 – Growing up within the family business, doing many different roles, and learning on the job.

12:29 – Succeeding as leader from his dad.

13:38 – Being aware of the respect the company has built up as a niche manufacturer.

14:45 – Family members working in the business.

15:48 – Favourite project ever? The world’s largest revolving restaurant, in Iran. It wasn’t without drama, though…

18:50 – Custom  vs off-the-shelf jobs

20:55 – The Spinsy product. How it was developed, the challenges to do with this, and why they decided to make their first B-to-C product.

24:40 – expanding into the US and India and why these markets were appealing. 

25:50 – “The company that we want to be is one that’s global and it’s supplying the world’s best turntables across the globe.”

26:40 – On innovation and its importance.

28:25 – The challenge of being an internationally-oriented business, based in a regional city, requiring a skilled workforce.