Our story
MadeCo was founded by a humble cabinetmaker with a simple vision for a better work-life. Founder Gary Slade experienced first hand what it is like to run a cabinet making business. The ongoing stress of managing workload, employees, the expenses of equipment and software, plus always striving to exceed customer expectations is a common story for many in the industry.
In 2006 MadeCo was established with a single purpose; to provide a service that would streamline the workflow for cabinetmakers, freeing up valuable time and providing a better work life balance.
The simple concept of giving cabinetmakers access to custom CNC joiner was the missing link that the industry needed. Thanks to innovative software and a finely tuned production line, MadeCo single-handedly revolutionised the Australian Cabinet Making industry.
Today MadeCo is an industry leader and Gary, who has always been a trailblazer, continues to innovate and improve the MadeCo business model. His purpose however has always remained strong; to provide a better work life.
Gary’s focus on providing a superior experience for clients, suppliers and staff further increases productivity and is what positions MadeCo ahead of the game.
We are positioning MadeCo to continually transform by building a progressive culture, we capture growth opportunities and find ways to innovate, always with the end goal in mind: To provide a better work-life.
Gary Slade
MadeCo people
Name: Gary Slade
Position: Managing Director
Spends time at work: Mentoring and leading my team and the greater community while I continue to gather knowledge to create products and services to help make a difference to people’s lives.
Inspired by: Knowing I am doing my best to lead a legacy of change within the industry, while receiving support from my children in the risks I take in being that little bit different!
Started at MadeCo: 2006
Coffees per day: 1-2 (double shot Soy Latte or a simple herbal tea when on a monthly health stint)
On the weekends I like to: Go to my cabin in the mountains, do beach activities with friends and family or just hanging out with my dog Ruby. When possible, I also make time to focus on my personal growth and wellbeing which I find very satisfying.
Favourite saying: I don’t have one “saying” as such, I just share what comes to heart and mind at the time, often it will be words of inspiration to others such as “just be your true self and you will find the answers there”, that’s where the gold is!
Name: Phillip Gibbs
Position: IT Systems Manager
Spends time at work: As the company nerd and go to person for anything software and IT related, or stuff that just needs doing!
Inspired by: My wife and 2 sons, especially my oldest son who suffers from Autism and doesn’t allow it to stop him to achieve his goals.
Started at MadeCo: 2012
Coffees per day: Was 10 but now, 1 or 2 although lucky to get to drink them hot
On the weekends I like to: Spend time with family and friends, working on cars, attending race meets my sons are competing in or just relaxing on the farm.
Favourite saying: “Pursue your dreams no matter what hurdles you think you have in front of you. As if you don’t try, you will never reach your end goal in life.”
Name: Sam Rechner
Position: Customer Service and Logistics Co-ordinator
Spends time at work: Speaking with customers to come up with the best solutions to their challenges.
Inspired by: Music. Mostly Metal, but basically anything except pop.
Started at MadeCo: 2015
Coffees per day: 12… not even an exaggeration
On the weekends I like to: Ride motorbikes and go camping
Favourite saying: “Living the dream”