Adelaide-based manufacturer Seeley International has strengthened its global presence through the launch of its own subsidiary in Africa.

The move sees Seeley take its Australian-designed and manufactured air-conditioners direct into some of the harshest weather conditions on the planet.

The company’s chairman, Frank Seeley, said the expansion provided growth opportunities.

“Until recently Seeley International used a local distributor arrangement, but it is time to grow and service the local market more effectively by offering direct support with more comprehensive on-the-ground services,” he said.

“Seeley International Africa will provide greatly increased support to its extensive dealer network through its own highly-qualified staff ensuring total customer service, from right through sales and installation, to maintenance and diagnostics support.”

Seeley International designs and manufactures Breezair, Climate Wizard, Braemar, Coolair and Convair brands.

“This announcement is good news for Seeley International and our staff, good news for South Australia, and good news for all other Australian manufacturers because it demonstrates that a local business can thrive and grow on an international level,” Seeley said.

The establishment of Seeley International Africa is the company’s latest international expansion with the business supplying the first all-plastic portable evaporative air conditioners to Iraq in 1980 and the USA in 1985, before opening sales offices in Europe, Spain, France and Italy in the following years.