Reel maker Alvey saved from closure again

Queensland’s iconic tackle manufacturer, Alvey Reels, has been saved from closure for the second time in four years.

The business has been acquired by Gowings, an Australian investment company that owns surfing brand FCS. Its Managing Director, John Gowing, said he was ‘extremely proud and honoured’ to be able to keep Alvey Reels in the country.

In May it was reported that the 102-year-old business was going to close due to cost pressures and a lack of local materials to make the handcrafted reels. Alvey was founded in 1920 by Charles Alvey and stayed in the family until 2018 when Con Athans became a majority shareholder.

Athans added that global logistical problems, COVID-19 and an Australian reliance of overseas products had also compounded the company’s problems.

Gowing said that Alvey Reels would complement the Gowings’ interest in ocean sports. “Philosophically, we want to encourage sustainable enjoyment of our seas and oceans. Demonstrating this commitment is our ‘One per cent for the oceans’ pledge with proceeds going to the Gowings Whale Trust, which aims to fund positive change in our oceans.

“We are incredible excited for this new chapter in the Alvey story and look forward to working with the Alvey community to bring ‘a better way to fish’ to Australia and the world.

Source: ABC Radio Brisbane