By Casey Neill
Dandenong South’s Ego Pharmaceuticals is the Australian Exporter of the Year.
The skincare manufacturer also won the manufacturing category at the 55th annual Australian Exporter of the Year Awards, held in Canberra on 5 December.
Trade, Tourism and Investment Minister Steven Ciobo presented the 12 national category award and the overall title.
The national program recognises and honours Australian companies engaged in international business who have achieved sustainable growth through innovation and commitment.
Ego manufactures dermatological skincare products, including well-known brands like QV Skincare, SunSense and Aqium hand sanitiser.
It was established in 1953 and now produces 120 products.
In 2016-’17, Ego increased its sales to China by 179 per cent.
Judges commended Ego on its commitment to continual improvement and a clear export strategy.
“These awards recognise the commitment of all our 580 wonderful staff based across 12 nations to the growing Ego world,” managing director Alan Oppenheim said.
“Our growth is driven by a lot of passion, a lot of science and living the family values of Ego.
“All our staff live the Ego values every day, whether they are creating products in the laboratory, greeting people at reception or educating healthcare professionals about the benefits of our products.
“We are so grateful to have such a wonderful team around the world and so thankful to have all our hard work and achievements recognised.”
Ego won the health and biotechnology category at last year’s Australian Exporter of the Year Awards.
The family-owned company moved into a warehouse and office in Oppenheim Way, Dandenong South, earlier this year.
Its manufacturing still takes place in Braeside, and will for decades to come, but the skincare specialist needed more space.
