Two Italian immigrants, Villa and Rossi, started out in 1881 with a philosophy of innovation, reliability and the pursuit of excellence. That business later became Tapex and it has led to significant achievements, including the development of a range of pipeline protection products and robust barrier fences for construction sites and roadworks.

In the 1960s, Tapex was the first company in the Southern Hemisphere to extrude polypropylene, and the company is now one of the world’s most successful plastic extrusion companies.

In the early 1990s, Tapex developed a completely new detectable tape system for Telstra when it was laying down its fibre-optic network, and this remains the preferred product for major communication companies.

The Sydney factory produces a huge range of products for the construction, pipeline, food and manufacturing industries. By producing products locally from predominantly Australian components, Tapex can offer unmatched flexibility and speedy turnaround.

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“Our company’s growth has been due to creating highly innovative products,” says Tapex National Sales Manager– Construction and Industrial David Barkla.

“We are committed to working closely with customers, and that means we continue to develop practical, valuable and speedy solutions for industry.

“Local representation means greater responsiveness and short lead times. Our national warehouse coverage delivers products precisely where and when our customers need them,” Mr Barkla says.

Tapex’s commitment to innovation is backed by a $3 million annual investment in research and development, including a laboratory testing facility. Tapex is continually innovating and developing new products that aren’t easily reproduced.

“Our ability to work closely with customers to create specific solutions has helped us maintain our competitive edge.

“If a customer wants a mesh or tape in a different colour, width or style we can produce it without a problem. Best of all, our products are designed and manufactured in Australia,” says Mr Barkla.

Examples of the range of Tapex products will be on display on Stand 20 at the APIA Convention, including rockmesh, pipeline protection mesh, warning and communication tapes, safety barriers, sandbags, and rope.