Royston Kent, CEO, B&C Plastics
In today’s entrepreneurial landscape, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a fundamental principle driving business innovation. As consumers become increasingly aware of their ecological footprint, more and more entrepreneurs are realizing the importance of integrating eco-conscious practices into their ventures. By prioritizing sustainability, they’re not only reducing their environmental impact but also tapping into new markets and driving innovation. One such pioneering company is B&C Plastics. Royston’s leadership at B&C Plastics exemplifies how businesses can thrive while prioritizing sustainability.
The Humble Beginning
Unlike many, Royston’s entrepreneurial journey was not born out of a lifelong ambition or a meticulously crafted business plan. He didn’t set out to become a CEO; In fact, his initial ambition was to join the army. However, his path took an unexpected turn when he landed a fortuitous job at a factory while waiting for his army dates to be confirmed. Little did Royston know that this seemingly temporary job would shape his future in ways he couldn’t foresee. His wife Wendy, who was his fiancée at the time, played a pivotal role in steering his course away from the military and toward the world of injection molding. For 13 years, Royston immersed himself in the intricacies of product development, engineering, and manufacturing. His hands-on experience honed his skills and fueled his entrepreneurial spirit. Armed with a deep understanding of the industry and a passion for innovation, Royston co-founded B&C Plastics in collaboration with like-minded partners. As a co-founder and the Formator of the company, he brought a fresh perspective to the table, driven by a commitment to integrating circular economy principles into manufacturing practices. Soon, B&C Plastics became the cornerstone for manufacturing commercial plastic products for renowned brands like Virgin Australia, Telstra, Lendlease, and Jetstar.
Pioneering Sustainable Manufacturing and Innovation
What sets B&C Plastics apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. Royston is not content with simply meeting the needs of today; he is determined to shape the future of manufacturing by integrating circular economy principles into every aspect of the business. “Our shared commitment to innovation is the cornerstone of our success, as we continually explore cutting-edge materials, prioritize sustainability, and optimize our processes collectively. Our designs reflect our unified focus on functionality, aesthetics, and user experience, resulting in products known for their durability and visual appeal,” he shares.
With a focus on industrial design, 3D printing, computer numerical control machining, and prototypes, B&C Plastics offers end-to-end solutions that prioritize sustainability without compromising on quality or efficiency. Royston’s vision is clear: to push the boundaries of discovery and adapt the company to meet the evolving needs of the market. In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, Royston’s dedication to sustainability is both admirable and necessary. By embracing innovation and adopting a circular economy approach, he is not only driving positive change within his own company but also setting a precedent for the industry as a whole.
Dedicated to Customer Satisfaction
At B&C Plastics, customer satisfaction isn’t just a promise; it’s their brand ethos. They ensure that every client’s needs are not just met but exceeded. From the moment a project begins, they’re committed to delivering with speed and precision. But their commitment goes beyond mere manufacturing; it’s about embracing challenges with a pioneering spirit. The team at B&C Plastic thrives on innovation, taking joy in finding creative solutions to complex problems. With a personal project manager assigned to each client, they ensure seamless communication and adherence to deadlines. They don’t just deliver products; they elevate expectations and redefine what it means to truly serve their customers. More than just a company, B&C Plastic embodies a culture of collaboration and fun. “What sets us apart is not just our commitment to pushing boundaries but also the joy we find in celebrating our unique culture. We don’t just work together; we have fun, fostering a collaborative environment that fuels creativity and inspires us to overcome challenges,” adds Royston.
Thriving Amidst Turbulence
While the pandemic wreaked havoc on businesses worldwide, B&C Plastics emerged not just unscathed but thriving. Royston credits their success to strategic planning and a bold approach. “We understood what our worst-case scenario and fallback position would be, put that behind us, and went all in,” he explains. This foresight resulted in over 40% growth in the past 12 months, with further expansion plans in motion. He emphasizes the importance of diversification, especially in critical sectors like defense and healthcare. “COVID-19 has made many countries, including Australia, realize that we are too dependent on other countries. We are focusing on expanding our design, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities and, in turn, helping improve our sovereign capabilities within the medical and defense industries,” states Royston.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, B&C Plastics positioned itself for success through proactive measures and a steadfast commitment to innovation. Royston as a firm believer in the power of collaboration attributes much of his own growth to the support and insights gained through his involvement with the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO). By connecting with like-minded leaders and sharing experiences, he underscores the value of human connection in driving business success. As B&C Plastics continues to thrive amidst adversity, he remains dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, recognizing that ultimately, it is the people who make the difference.
Cultivating a Culture of Excellence
For Royston, leadership goes beyond mere authority; it’s about nurturing a culture of excellence and resilience within the team. “The right team culture is the key to success. It’s not something you just put in a business plan. It must be driven from the top down, and then down and up again – A-players are a must,” he emphasizes. Drawing from over six decades of expertise in injection molding and plastics manufacturing, the CEO imparts one of the most profound leadership lessons he’s gleaned over the years – “Being vulnerable grants you credibility as a human being, but it also exposes you to the risk of failure – and it’s often in those moments that we learn the most about ourselves,” he reflects. At B&C Plastics, continuous personal and professional development isn’t just encouraged—it’s a fundamental part of the company’s DNA.
Shaping the Future of Australian Manufacturing
Today, B&C Plastics stands tall as the strategic partner of choice for those who value Australian-made excellence. Their shared commitment to quality, sustainability, and local job creation defines their identity. Under Royston’s leadership, B&C Plastics has experienced significant growth, including a 40% increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, with further expansion projected. His vision and determination have been pivotal in the company’s success, particularly in enhancing Australia’s sovereign capabilities in the medical and defense sectors.
Looking ahead, B&C Plastics aims to cement its position as a pioneer in sustainable manufacturing, continuously innovating and adapting to the evolving needs of industries and communities.