Alpine Truss managing director George Prothero. Photo: Kieren Tilly
Alpine Truss, one of Wangaratta’s three largest employers, has sold to national Independent Hardware Group (IHG), with the business changing hands on 1 March. George Prothero, who will remain in his role as managing director, sold the business to the IHG, which has supported local communities and family-owned businesses for more than 60 years. Source: Wangaratta Chronicle
IHG is one of Australia’s leading wholesalers and Alpine Truss will be its first truss company based in Victoria.
It supports the largest independent network of hardware operators with more than 600 branded stores and a further 950 Independent family businesses, located in metro and regional areas across Australia.
Mr Prothero, who built the Alpine Truss business from the ground up 22 years ago, started with three staff including himself, today there are 110 employees.
He assured the community that even though the business will change hands, there will be no change to how Alpine Truss operates today.
“Our priority is to continue to service your needs to the highest of standards and with the same familiar faces and relationships you know today,” he said.
“In fact, it is absolutely business as usual where I will continue in my role.”
Over the last two decades, Alpine Truss has invested in the latest computerised sawing and pressing equipment to deliver to its customers tailored requirements.
“We’ve also seen significant growth having added additional yard space, a mechanics shed, and frame shed,” Mr Prothero said.
“Today, Alpine Truss employs 110 staff and operates 12 trucks, helping to build in excess of 3000 homes each year.
“Looking into the future, this is an exciting opportunity that opens doors for us within IHG’s expanding Frame & Truss manufacturing business, to grow Alpine Truss across multiple locations in Victoria and Southern NSW sites.
“We will be able to expand our capability and see more value-added offers that can only benefit our customers over time.”
IHG said its network supports the growth of Independents within the hardware sector through IHG’s purpose ‘building successful independents’.
“The culture of IHG is built on being a low cost and transparent business partner with an unwavering commitment to protect and grow a sustainable independent hardware sector for the long term,” Mr Prothero said.
