My Local Buy Story - Cairns Hardware
Article by Cairns Hardware
Founded in the early 1980s, Cairns Hardware has played a key role in North Queensland's infrastructure development, collaborating closely with tradespeople, contractors, and government agencies. With strong ties to the Cairns community, the company has built lasting relationships by supplying high-quality materials and services critical to the region's growth.
The Role of Local Buy in Cairns Hardware’s Success
Cairns Hardware’s strong relationships with local government led it to become one of the first suppliers to be pre-qualified on Local Buy Arrangements when the hardware and building materials arrangements were introduced. Local Buy has been invaluable, offering formal opportunities to engage with councils and streamline the procurement process.
Through Local Buy’s pre-qualified process, councils gain direct access to our extensive range of materials and supplies. Being available on Local Buy Arrangements has expanded our reach within local government , fostering trust and reliability with councils across Queensland and neighbouring regions, resulting in long-term successful relationships.
Engagement with Councils Through Local Buy
Cairns Hardware’s engagement with councils through Local Buy goes beyond supplying materials. The company builds strong relationships with various levels in government, ensuring their needs are met with quality products, clear communication, and reliable service. A dedicated representative regularly works with councils to ensure quotes and deliveries are tailored to each project.
For remote infrastructure repairs or upgrades, councils rely on Cairns Hardware for timely and dependable delivery. This reliability has been crucial in maintaining strong, long-term relationships, especially for time-sensitive projects.
Attending Local Buy Conferences and Expanding Opportunities
Cairns Hardware actively participates in Local Buy conferences and events, which offer key networking opportunities. At the most recent Summit in Cairns, we connected with various council departments, deepening relationships and gaining insights into council needs for future collaboration.
The Summit also provided an opportunity to engage with a Northern Territory Local Buy representative, highlighting similarities in procurement processes and opening doors for potential future partnerships beyond Queensland.
Streamlining the Quoting Process Through VendorPanel
One of the key tools Cairns Hardware uses to engage with councils is VendorPanel, an online portal that allows us to submit quotes for various projects. VendorPanel streamlines the quoting process, making it easier for councils to reach out to pre-qualified suppliers with specific project needs. This system has played a significant role in maintaining Cairns Hardware’s active engagement with local governments and ensuring that councils receive competitive quotes and timely responses.
Successful Project Outcomes and Meaningful Impact on Communities
Cairns Hardware’s collaboration with councils through Local Buy has resulted in many successful projects that positively impact local communities. For instance, the company recently partnered with a regional council on a major infrastructure project, delivering materials ahead of schedule and allowing the project to finish early, which was critical for meeting community needs.
Additionally, Cairns Hardware’s ability to provide customised solutions, such as sourcing sustainable materials or offering expert advice on products suited to North Queensland’s climate, ensures councils receive tailored outcomes for unique projects.
The Broader Importance of Local Buy for Local Communities
Local Buy's benefits go beyond procurement by supporting local businesses and reinvesting taxpayer dollars into the community. By partnering with local suppliers like Cairns Hardware, councils access high-quality materials while boosting the local economy and sustaining jobs.
Local Buy also simplifies the procurement process, enabling councils to work with trusted suppliers without lengthy tenders, ensuring essential projects are completed efficiently and benefiting communities dependent on that infrastructure.
Looking Ahead: Cairns Hardware’s Continued Commitment to Local Buy
Cairns Hardware is dedicated to expanding its partnerships with councils and government agencies through Local Buy. We value the strong relationships we have built and we look forward to continuing to support essential community projects.
Following the Local Buy Summit in Cairns, Cairns Hardware is confident that Local Buy will remain a vital link between local government and trusted suppliers. The conference strengthened connections and offered valuable insights for future collaboration.
By working closely with councils and supporting local procurement, Cairns Hardware is proud to contribute to Queensland's infrastructure and community well-being.
About Cairns Hardware
Cairns Hardware's mission is to honour its 145-year heritage by investing in partnerships, communities, and its workforce to create a positive impact. Guided by three core values: Take Responsibility, Everyone Contributes, and Grow Together, the company aims to be the preferred supplier, enhancing the building process with innovative solutions and service excellence.
These values, coupled with Cairns Hardware’s diverse range of products and services, have allowed the company to remain a trusted partner in the North Queensland construction industry. Its specialised services, including a Tool Centre, Bathroom and Kitchen Centre, Paint Centre, Plasterboard Centre, Trade Centre, and Outdoor Living Centre, cater to various customer needs. In addition to retail, Cairns Hardware’s local manufacturing divisions provide custom solutions in doors, windows, security screens, roofing, and more.
Cairns Hardware are available through the following Local Buy Arrangements:
