(PRLEAP.COM) The company behind the iconic Australian lock brand Lockwood, ASSA ABLOY, is celebrating the opening of its new custom built Centre of Design Excellence and expanded manufacturing facility, paving the way for a pivotal role in the manufacture of premium commercial security products in the future.

The Honourable John Brumby MP, Treasurer, Minister for State and Regional Development, Minister for Innovation, officially opened the $16 million redevelopment in late 2006.

The redeveloped site covers a total area of almost 5.4 hectares and incorporates a Centre of Design Excellence, a state of the art manufacturing facility, a 200 seat auditorium, a new training centre, function rooms, corporate offices, a trade demonstration area, a custom built commercial catering facility as well as a new 5,000m2 distribution centre.

The distribution centre includes office and manufacturing space for ASSA ABLOY automatic door manufacturer Besam, which has relocated to this site from Dandenong.

According to Tom Devine, General Manager ASSA ABLOY Australia, Commercial Division, ASSA ABLOY is committed to the continued local design and manufacture of Australian made premium security products and the new facility is evidence of this commitment.

“At a time when so much Australian manufacturing is heading off-shore, we are committed to investing in the skills of our local employees,” he said. “ASSA ABLOY is determined that the premium high-end commercial security products for which the Lockwood brand is known, will continue to be designed and manufactured right here in Australia.”

“Our theme for this event ‘Local Skill – Global Strength’ highlights the important role this facility will play in the company’s continued global success and export opportunities, with well-known product ranges. This considerable investment in the Lockwood brand, well known for its Australian made market-leading premium commercial and residential security products paves the way for the ranges of the future,” continued Devine.

“ASSA ABLOY is committed to the ongoing development of innovative technology and world’s best practice,” Devine said. “Our new plant will allow us to continue to play a pivotal role in our company’s global success, and ensure our investment secures the future of our Victorian employees and our business in Victoria.”

Designed by architects Baldasso Cortese P/L, the new centre adheres to the strictest environmental standards. A comprehensive landscape design has also been implemented, ensuring the site adds value to the local area and reinforces the company’s presence as a local manufacturer of iconic commercial security products.

For more information please visit the ASSA ABLOY Australia website at www.assaabloyasiapacific.com .