Oates

E. D. Oates Pty Ltd grew from the original A. A. Oates broom factory that operated in North Melbourne before the First World War. Starting with cotton mops in 1930, Edgar Oates, his father Albert and brothers Bert and Lawrence worked through the tough years of the great depression with Edgar and Lawrence then serving their country in the Second World War. In the post war years the product range was steadily expanded and production facilities improved. A reputation amongst trade buyers as a reliable supplier of quality products was firmly established in all markets. During the 1980’s and 1990’s acquisitions and product development together with the opening of warehouses and sales offices in all mainland capitals resulted in E. D. Oates becoming the leading supplier of cleaning products in Australasia. In July 2005, E.D. Oates was acquired by GUD Holdings Limited. As the owner of a number of other iconic Australian companies, including Sunbeam, Davey, Ryco Filters, Wesfil and Lock Focus, GUD Holdings offers Oates a strong commitment to brand development and to the future growth in professional cleaning & household products across Australia and New Zealand. At the commencement of 2008 the Oates® range comprised over 1200 products and customers ranged from the largest supermarkets, DIY chains and mass merchants to specialized cleaning outlets and export customers across the Pacific and Asia. Oates® continues to grow through complementary acquisitions and by launching new products, many of which are designed in Australia. In June 2010, Oates acquired the chemical product range and branding of Research Products, Citrus Resources and Dry Fusion. The range includes hard floor, carpet and upholstery cleaners, disinfectants and bleaches, glass and automotive cleaners, laundry and fabric care, dishwashing detergents, hand washes, deodorises and other specialty cleaners.