Upstream Technology - Leaders in office technology

Those of us working in the modern business office have come to demand trouble-free operation of common technologies such as printers, photocopiers and faxes. We tend to overlook the complexities of these systems, assuming that they will simply work when we want them. Upstream Technology is Australia’s leading provider of printer and output management solutions. Based in Melbourne and with a significant presence in Sydney, Upstream has a staggering 200 billion pages under their management.

Chairman of the Board, Gordon Hoen, originally established the Melbourne Ricoh Business Centre East franchise in 1982. He revolutionised the copying industry with the “Blue Chip Copy Plan” enabling clients to efficiently manage their copying platforms by providing reliable equipment, efficient service, cost effective consumables and competitive finance. Together with many of Gordon’s other marketing initiatives, these platforms are now widely used in the broader industry.

Neil Tilley, Upstream’s CEO, came with over 20 years experience in IT and office automation including stints as Managing Director of Gestetner Singapore and Director and General Manager of Lexmark Australia. Recognising the opportunity to forge a new direction in the output management industry, he came together with Gordon to purchase a laser printer dealership in 1995 and Upstream was born.

Upstream now owns Ricoh Business Centres in Melbourne and Sydney as well as being premium suppliers of HP and Lexmark products into the commercial, government, education and health sectors. They provide professional services associated with printer technologies, helping organisations to manage and reduce their total cost of printer ownership. Growth has been significant and sustained, having been recognised with their fourth successive listing in the BRW Fast 100 list (only three other companies have equalled this feat). Looking ahead, they appreciate that the future of business growth depends upon implementing change in areas such as colour applications, the evolution of the paperless office and the growing trend for multi-function printers and copiers.

Saward Dawson has provided a broad range of corporate advisory, accounting and taxation services to Gordon Hoen’s Ricoh franchise business for over 15 years, and in more recent years to the overall Upstream group. Cliff Dawson has worked closely with Gordon and in the formative years of the business, assisted in the development and growth from a small family business to the significant corporation that Upstream is today.

Saward Dawson has provided expert advice on business structures, corporate governance and risk management. We have also assisted Upstream with due diligence and timely advice in relation to business acquisitions and sales. We continue to provide a key role as external advisers to the management team and board of directors.

Upstream are committed to helping their clients take advantage of the latest in output management technology. Our association with Upstream has been long and mutually beneficial. We look forward to continuing as a valued business partner as future technologies and opportunities unfold.

For more information on Upstream Technology and its products, see their website at www.upstream.net.au.

Published : 13 September 2004