Taking Kiwi Ingenuity Global: The Kormax Story
Founded in the 1950s, Kormax is now led by third-generation General Manager Scott Davis and fourth-generation Sales Director Walter Davis, who reflects on a pivotal moment in the company’s journey:
“In the early 2000s, when many New Zealand family businesses were closing due to an influx of imported products, we adapted by innovating and expanding internationally,” says Walter.
Kormax began with specialised agricultural products designed for the local market — but quickly recognised their global potential.
“We launched those products in New Zealand and then took them to the US market. That was our first step into international trade.”
Expanding Beyond Agriculture
Today, Kormax serves clients across a broad range of sectors, including oil and gas, infrastructure, and industrial engineering. One notable achievement includes securing a contract to supply a large Armoured Personnel Carrier production program.
Even shifting geopolitical landscapes haven’t hindered Kormax’s momentum. Walter notes that US import tariffs have presented challenges for some suppliers, but Kormax continues to thrive:
“The US remains reliant on imported products — particularly from China. As long as those tariffs primarily impact Chinese suppliers, we stay competitive in that environment.”
Australia: A Strategic Growth Market
In August 2021, during a time of global uncertainty and tightening borders, Kormax established its Australian branch in Sydney — a decision driven not by traditional markets, but by opportunity in the Defence sector.
“Australia wasn’t initially a target for our agricultural range due to lower demand,” Walter explains. “However, through targeted market research, we identified a strong opportunity in the Defence industry.”
Kormax AU branch, Unit 2, 16-18 Sterling Road, Minchinbury, NSW, 2770. PH: +61 2 9061 8931
By leveraging platforms such as ICN Gateway, Kormax gained insights into Defence procurement pathways and successfully secured contracts as a third-tier supplier — manufacturing components for everything from Defence Force satellite systems to armoured vehicles.
“Defence was a significant breakthrough,” says Walter. “ICN provided the visibility we needed, and today, our largest Australian customers include two manufacturers in the Defence sector.”
The Road Ahead
From agriculture to Defence, New Zealand to the world, Kormax continues to stand out as a symbol of what focused innovation and family-driven leadership can achieve globally.
To learn more about Kormax’s world-class metal casting and supply solutions, visit www.kormax.com.
