In Conversation with Lindsay Packer
Lindsay Packer has over 60-years’ experience working amongst his family business, Packer Leather. Lindsay took over the family business in 1967 and endured a few difficult years, as the government resumed 12 acres of land. Fast forward to today and Packer Leather has become an internationally recognised family business with more of their finished leathers sold overseas than in Australia. They continue to develop their leather production using the latest innovation available.
This year marks 130 years since the Packer family first started production at Chermside in 1891. The family business has become a significant Australian business success story in leather manufacturing and the values, beliefs and tenacity of its original founder have underpinned the positioning of Packer Leather today.
Lindsay remains the current Chairman of Packer Leather and now has fourth, fifth and sixth generations active within in the family business.
“We’ve kept our family legacy going for 130 years by believing in the future as there are always opportunities if you keep looking for them. Each generation has had to adapt to the change in business conditions while still believing in the original goals of the company”
We can’t wait to hear from Lindsay at The Family Business Conference – Asia Pacific, as a keynote speaker on Friday 11th March. Lindsay will be joined by Ross Thompson the Production Director at Kookaburra, to present their session, ‘Keeping your eye on the ball’. Together they will discuss their 10-year partnership, how they work together to understand and meet a range of technical, environmental and market requirements for a highly competitive industry.
We sat down with Lindsay to discuss the legacy of Packer Leather and his insights into what makes a successful family business. Read the full interview below.
In your words what the proudest achievements of your family?
For our family business, after the struggles over the years, reaching 100 years and celebrating with all the family, friends, suppliers, and customers in May 1991 was fantastic.
How has your family business created success across generations
Each generation has had to adapt to the change in business conditions, but still believing in the original goals.
How do you keep a family business legacy going for 130 years
We’ve kept our family legacy going for 130 years [by] believing in the future, there are always opportunities if you keep looking for them.
How did you get your next generations interested in the business?
The next generations wanted to be part of the business and after our father died, [we] had to find a way to keep going. Then the young ones came along, two of them, and they were happy to work in the business because there were jobs available. Another one wanted to be in the business, and I sent him to see his brother and sister. They each had to make their own commitment. The sixth generation, just started, penmanship in turning, so he’s still finding his way. I hope all goes well for the future.
What are your tops tips or advice for running a successful family business?
My advice to others is be determined, have good people around you and treat people like yourself.
Secure your place now to learn from Lindsay’s 60-year career in an innovative and established family business.
