Relationships, reputation the key to success

Company director Richard Watkins said the "mere fact" State Wide Sheds was based in a regional town meant it had to remain aware of the state of the rural economy.

"Relationships and reputation developed within rural communities is a primary reason for the success of this business," Mr Watkins said.

The company recently acquired one of the most sophisticated structural steel design software packages available and Mr Watkins said the benefits of adopting such modern technology would flow on to clients in the form of competitive pricing.

"Our internal efficiencies, especially in terms of better utilisation of our fabricating staff, work flow and materials procurement, will improve with the adoption of this new technology," he said.

Supply of materials used in shed fabrication and erection had also been a long-term arrangement, he said.

Branch manager at Southern Steel Supplies Pty Ltd, Dubbo, Paul Pedersen, (pictured, left) has been associated with State Wide Sheds from close to the first days of establishment.

"State Wide Sheds was one of the first accounts that came across to Southern Steel when we opened the branch in Dubbo seven years ago," he said.

The company supplies universal beams and columns, pipe and RHS and all other associated steel products.

"We carry stock for State Wide Sheds and deliver to their Purvis Lane fabrication sheds," Mr Pedersen said.

Southern Steel is Australia's largest independently owned steel distributor with 20 branches plus subsidiaries across Australia.

The increase in business experienced by State Wide Sheds was good for Metroll, Dubbo, according to its general manager Greg Adams.

"Metroll has been associated with the company for 12 years - the association has been good for business," Mr Adams said.

Supplying all Australian made BlueScope steel roofing and wall cladding and purlin materials, Metroll also distributes trims and flashings.