A Hobart plumbing company has stepped in to save a smaller rival from collapse, securing specialist jobs that have supported the state for more than 20 years.
Howrah Plumbing last week acquired the assets of Nu-Jet after the pipe-relining specialist entered voluntary administration in March.
The deal, managed by administrators Apex Advisory, means almost all Nu-Jet staff will move across to Howrah Plumbing.
Managing director Cath McDowell said the acquisition was about protecting local skills.
“Nu-Jet has been a leader in its field for more than two decades,” she said.
“By bringing the capabilities of Nu-Jet under the Howrah Plumbing umbrella, we’ve secured those specialist skills and made sure they stay right here in Tasmania.”
Nu-Jet, which traded as Machos Pty Ltd, has been a go-to provider for councils and businesses needing sewer infrastructure work across the state since 2004.
The purchase means those services will continue, now backed by Howrah Plumbing’s larger operation.
McDowell said staff would also gain opportunities to work on bigger projects, including the Elizabeth Street Pier redevelopment in Hobart.
Howrah Plumbing has been operating since 1982 and now employs nearly 50 people.
“Keeping ownership and jobs in Tasmania was the most important thing,” McDowell said.
“We’re proud that Tasmanian businesses can support each other and protect local employment.”
