The South Australian Company That Took Its Trays to the World

When people think of Australian export success stories, household trays and serving trolleys probably aren’t the first things that come to mind. But that’s exactly how South Australia’s Ranleigh Ware Pty Ltd built an impressive international business.

Founded in Adelaide and later based at Edwardstown, Ranleigh Ware manufactured chrome-plated household wares, serving trays and its famous “Traymobile” trolleys. The company’s export journey began in 1932 when managing director Frank Curtis travelled to England. During a stop in Colombo, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), he spotted British-made products similar to those his company produced and realised there was an opportunity to export Australian-made goods overseas.

Armed with samples and determination, Curtis secured export orders worth more than £1,000. From that modest beginning, Ranleigh expanded into South Africa, India, Singapore, Hong Kong, Jamaica, New Zealand and many other markets. By the 1960s the company was trading with 28 countries and exports accounted for around 12 per cent of total turnover.

Ranleigh’s story is a fascinating example of old-school business entrepreneurship. Through persistence, adaptability and a willingness to explore new markets, a South Australian manufacturer proved that Australian products could compete successfully on the world stage.

References:
Australian Trade Commission & Australia. Department of Trade and Resources & Australia. Department of Commerce and Agriculture & Australia. Department of Trade and Industry & Australia. Department of Overseas Trade & Australia. Department of Trade. (1947). The world is this company’s “oyster”, Overseas trading Retrieved June 20, 2026, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-942769056