Following the relocation of VAILO founder and CEO Aaron Hickmann, along with his immediate and some extended family, to Brisbane earlier this year, the Australian advanced technology company has announced its investment into establishing its manufacturing base in Queensland.  

“VAILO will be better placed for the major investments being made into sporting and other infrastructure ahead of the Brisbane Olympic games and will benefit from being part of an entrepreneurial, innovative and progressive environment in which to conduct business,” said Hickmann.

Hickmann confirmed VAILO is currently finalising negotiations to lease a Gold Coast manufacturing facility with the aim of being fully operational before the year’s end.

VAILO’s Research and Development facility will remain in South Australia, though the company’s Wayville site, originally earmarked for a joint R&D and manufacturing facility, will reportedly be sold. 

Instead the company has entered into negotiations with the South Australian government-led Tonsley Innovation District from 2025. 

Founded in 2012, VAILO transitioned from importer to manufacturer, exporting Australian designed and made LED lighting products. In the past two years it has seen significant expansion going from from 12 to more than 25 employees.

With this Queensland move the company hopes to accelerate its growth into the strong Eastern states’ markets and internationally, as well as place itself on the ground floor of the sports-focused infrastructure construction likely to continue as Brisbane prepares for its upcoming Olympics.