Walsall-based software company EM Brownhill Data Processing is aiming to turn around the fortunes of the woodwork industry down-under.

Owners Kevin and Liz Brownhill, have set their sights on becoming the fore-most supplier of software systems and training programmes to the woodwork industry world-wide.

Liz has literally told her husband Kevin to 'pack his bags' as he heads off to Australia to take part in the Woodworking Industry Suppliers Association trade show in Sydney this month.

Kevin said: "The problem facing the woodwork industry in the UK and in Australasia is that there are a large number of small purpose-made joinery manufacturers owned and managed by skilled tradesmen.

"Whilst we recognise their superb products, they don't always know how to make a profit. Our software enables the business owner to get on with what they do best by providing excellent manage-ment information at their fingertips. We already have companies in New Zealand reporting cost savings of up to £75,000 per year."

Kevin has more than 25 years experience in develop-ing software for the woodwork industry. Combined with Liz's expertise at developing training programmes for systems such as Microsoft Office, the company is now able to offer off the peg software with made-to-measure training programmes.

Kevin said: "The Sydney trade show is the biggest event of its kind in Australasia. Australasian woodworkers are losing business to competition from China and they need to cut costs and improve profitability. We already have the software and training programmes and this will give us the opportunity to make new contacts and expand." ..SUPL: