Australian export case study Disc Brakes Australia (DBA), the Sydney-based designer, manufacturer and marketer of disc brake rotors and brake drums, is now reaping the rewards of decades of innovation.
From small beginnings, the company is successfully selling disc brakes to the world, with over a third of total sales now coming from exports.
This achievement is heightened by the fact that in many developing nations where there is a much lower manufacturing cost base, disc brakes are incorrectly perceived as simple to make.
DBA manufactures a comprehensive range of enhanced performance products, as well as standard ‘direct replacement’ rotors, in addition to innovative ventilation and heat sensing systems on its products.
Two years ago, the company entered into a venture in Poland, where stock is warehoused and distributed throughout Europe. Ozparts, an independently owned company, now holds stock of DBA product in Poland and supplies quick turn-around times for delivery anywhere in Europe.
In China, where there is a strong demand for high-end brake rotors, DBA has established a Wholly Foreign Owned Entity (WFOE).
The company also supplies rotors for military four-wheel drives, armoured vehicles and high-security cars internationally. In hot climates there is often a need to improve fleet braking systems because overheating creates problems. In Dubai, for example, DBA disc brakes are used in police and military 4x4 patrol vehicles.
Last year, DBA received peer industry endorsement when the company was awarded Manufacturer of the Year by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association.
Around the world, the Australian Trade Commission – Austrade – helps Australian automotive companies such as DBA to become successful exporters.
Austrade assists Australian companies to exhibit at automotive aftermarket trade shows in locations such as the Middle East, and is able to provide introductions to decision-makers in the international automotive industry |