Bis secures GFG Alliance’s single materials handling contract

Bis, a leading provider of specialised production services to mining and industrial customers, has been awarded the contract to become the single materials handling contractor for GFG Alliance in Whyalla, South Australia effective from 1 October 2019. 
 
As part of GFG Alliance’s strategy to maximise the efficiency of its Whyalla-based operations – incorporating its Liberty Primary Steel and SIMEC Mining businesses – several materials-handling work packages were consolidated into a single contract to be operated by a single contractor partner. 
 
The contract will see Bis deliver a range of site services to the Whyalla site including steel services, scrap processing and handling, slag processing and handling and bulk materials handling.
 
The award comes as Bis celebrates 60 years in Whyalla this year, where it currently employs 170 people. Bis will welcome a further 80 employees as part of the expanded scope of works.  Bis are proud and active members of the Whyalla community, providing support to a broad range of initiatives in the region, including partnerships with the Middleback Arts Centre and the Whyalla Unearth Festival.
 
Commenting on the announcement, Liberty Primary Steel Acting Executive Managing Director, Jason Schell, said “GFG Alliance is looking forward to partnering with Bis to help drive our continuous-improvement culture and turn our business around for a sustainable, long-term future.
 
“This consolidated contract will result in significant cost savings for our business, while providing greater opportunities to optimise Bis’ assets and workforce across multiple work-fronts.”
 
Bis Chief Executive Officer, Brad Rogers said the announcement demonstrated the strength of the Company’s relationship with GFG Alliance, as well as Bis’ proven track record of safely and reliably delivering flexible, efficient solutions for its customers.
 
“Bis have been proud to have worked closely with the GFG Alliance team since their acquisition of the Arrium steelworks in July 2017, which effectively secured more than 5,500 jobs in the region.”
 
“I am delighted that we have secured this strategically important contract and I look forward to working with GFG Alliance over the coming weeks to ensure a successful contract start up.  We also look forward to welcoming 80 new employees to Bis in Whyalla.” 
 
Hadyn Shepherd, Bis General Manager Mining Services South East, said the win is great recognition for Bis and the team in Whyalla.
 
“The contract award is a great testament to our local hard-working team. GFG Alliance has provided a major boost to the entire Whyalla community, providing certainty to the region through financial investment and job creation. We look forward to working with GFG Alliance and delivering on this important contract.”