Australian-owned stationery manufacturer Plastafab marks its 50th anniversary this year with an expansion of its production facilities.

Plastafab has been trading as a manufacturer of stationery, packaging and promotional products in Australia since 1962.

The company has had several owners over the years and during the 1980s and  '90s operated as a division of Printers Trade Services, until being acquired in 1994 by Len Hammond.

Another partner, manufacturing manager Jim Mitchell, joined as production manager in 1997 while a third partner, sales director Bob Parker, joined the company in 2006.

"Since the inception of Plastafab, we have supplied the stationery and printing industries as well as several corporate clients across Australia," Parker told Stationery News. "Our main focus is as a 'trade house' to printers and stationers, supplying several stock lines and custom-made products."

Staff numbers at Plastafab have increased as the  manufacturing capabilities have expanded and the company currently employs full-time 15 staff.

Parker said that during 2012,  Plastafab will begin another expansion programme with the introduction of new manufacturing capabilities.

"This will enhance the product portfolio offered by Plastafab to our existing clients and take the company into new markets," he said.

"Plastafab  has continually been at the forefront with research and development into new technology and products, which has made the company a  market leader in Australia," he said. "We pride ourselves on innovation and customer service."

In 2006, Plastafab required larger premises and shifted to its current location in Belgravia Street, Belmont, a suburb of Perth.

"We would like to pass on our appreciation to our past and present clients for their support over the past 50 years and look forward to continuing working with our clients to develop new products and markets," Parker added.