Innovation and Tradition: Balancing Legacy with Adaptation at Latham

Founded in the 1950’s, Latham is a third-generation family business that has stood the test of time by balancing its rich history and legacy with a future-focussed approach to innovation. Established on the principles of hard work and dedication by its founder, Latham's cultural DNA remains deeply rooted in these values, shaping the company's identity and approach to business. 

"My grandfather was a true craftsman," says Dane Latham. "He believed in doing things right the first time, no matter how long it took. That dedication to quality is the cornerstone of everything we do at Latham and something we've ingrained into every aspect of our operations." 

Seizing opportunities 

Far removed from the current business focus today, Latham was originally founded to supply and manufacture materials handling equipment and special purpose machinery. In 1960, the company started to change direction to cater for the needs of the terrazzo, marble, granite and stone industries.  

This started a rich tradition of innovation and ‘out-of-the-box' thinking that has earned Latham over 30 awards including numerous Australian Design Awards, and a deserved reputation as the premium manufacturer of a range of flooring products that include tile dividing strips, self-aligning mechanical flexible expansion joint covers, slip resistant safety stair tread nosings and dirt control entry mats. 

This foundation has enabled Latham to remain a highly respected name in the industry, however it's the company's openness to change and innovation that has ensured its continued relevance.  

Listening drives innovation 

Despite its longstanding presence in the market, Latham has never shied away from evolving with the times. According to Dane, "We’re constantly listening to our customers, and their feedback drives much of our innovation. It’s not just about maintaining tradition; it’s about adapting and improving in ways that meet the needs of today’s market." 

This customer-centric approach is evident in the company's product offerings. Each product is the result of a careful balance between legacy techniques and modern innovation. "When a customer comes to us with a problem, we see it as an opportunity," Dane notes. "We don't just stick to the old ways because they work; we innovate because we want to create something better." 

The strength of an adaptable workforce 

One of the key elements of Latham's success in balancing tradition with innovation is its flexible manufacturing processes. The company prides itself on its ability to quickly adapt to new challenges, thanks to an agile workforce and a commitment to continuous improvement. "Our team is incredibly skilled and versatile," Dane explains. "We’ve invested in our people and our processes, and that allows us to pivot quickly when needed. It’s a big part of how we stay competitive." 

Moreover, Latham's collaborative environment fosters creativity and problem-solving across departments. This collaborative spirit not only drives innovation but also strengthens the company’s ability to respond effectively to market demands. "We encourage our teams to work together, share ideas, and solve problems collectively," says Dane, "It’s this teamwork that enables us to tackle challenges head-on and seize new opportunities." 

As Latham continues to grow, its ability to balance tradition with innovation remains a central theme in its ongoing success. By staying true to its founder's values while embracing change and fostering a culture of collaboration and customer focus, Latham is well-positioned to continue its legacy for generations to come. 

"Innovation is part of our tradition," Dane reflects. "It's what keeps us grounded in our roots while allowing us to grow and adapt to the future." 

Latham has been manufacturing premium quality flooring products in Sydney, Australia for 70 years. End-to-end control and oversight of procurement, manufacturing, and quality control results in the industry’s most reliable and high-performing products.  

The name Latham is synonymous with quality and products can be found in many prestigious buildings around the world including the Sydney Opera House, Singapore’s Changi Airport Terminals and the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. 

To find out more about Latham products, please visit www.latham-australia.com. To talk to a Latham product expert, call 1300 LATHAM (528 426) or email sales@latham-australia.com.