Caprice patriarch Brian Irvine founded the Australian-owned company in the late 1980s, after working for a business in a similar industry for 22 years. This depth of experience ensured a strong start to the new business, and the resulting longevity of Caprice is testament to the solid foundations upon which it was built.
Caprice Paper Products, then based in Lilydale in Melbourne’s outer east, initially made roll towel before gradually adding extra product lines. For a while Caprice expanded the range by supplying party and giftware to the retail market. Eventually though, the decision was made to concentrate on the commercial sector with all product lines crafted for and dedicated to washrooms, hospitality and industry use.
Brian’s son David started working alongside him at Caprice in 1993. Brian retired in 2007 and remains a director of the business.
Caprice quickly outgrew its Lilydale premises and relocated to nearby Croydon. Ten years later, the business moved to its current location in Kilsyth, where the premises are big enough to accommodate further growth. An initial presence in the form of a single sales person in Sydney from 1996, has led to a fully fitted out warehouse and additional staff.
Over our history there have been many highlights, too many to recount in detail. Here are some key highlights of which we are particularly proud.
Technology
A major event was the move away from small machinery to more automated machines in 2010. This was a major investment decision for us, but as David says today, it was a necessity in order to stay competitive with overseas companies and markets. It has been a wise move as it has made a huge difference in the speed and quality of our offering.
Customer Service
Caprice’s commitment to be the best in customer service is amply demonstrated by a recent instance where we stepped in to help a customer let down by a supplier at the last minute. We responded quickly and helped them out for the next three months, enabling them to carry on as before.
Environment
Since the earliest days we have committed to sourcing raw materials from sustainable sources. Even before the world’s focus sharpened on the environmental impact of deforestation, we mainly dealt with suppliers who adhered to the highest standards.
Family Values
Caprice prides itself as a company that recognises the strength of its people. Generations of members of the same family have come and gone through our doors, like a second home. David’s father, mother, aunt, two uncles, sister Danielle and wife Kate are part of the Caprice DNA, and now his oldest daughter has joined the business too.
In many ways Caprice is an old fashioned family business built on strong values. But the entire team is committed to innovation in business too. The opinion of each employee – whether family member or not – is valued. Staff members from the truck drivers through to floor staff, machinists and other team personnel are highly regarded for their commitment and professionalism.
Proudly Australian-owned, Caprice stands tall as a company with a strong history and commitment to customers with a big picture world view. We can’t wait for the next chapter of the Caprice story!
