The need for sustainable packaging has never been more pressing. With consumers increasingly aware of the environmental impacts of traditional packaging, there is a significant push towards eco-conscious alternatives. Western Australia, with its robust agricultural, mining, and export industries, is well-positioned to benefit from these innovations, giving rise to innovators in the space such as Zipform, a leader in print, digital communications and packaging solutions.

This is one of the many reasons why Judo Bank, a rapidly growing Australian challenger bank, has supported Zipform – one of the bank’s newest customers.

Judo Bank is a unique, specialist small to medium enterprise (SME) lender, dedicated to the craft of SME lending. In the 5 years since Judo Bank received its banking license, it has supported more than 4500 SME customers, with a loan book of over $11 billion. Now officially admitted to the S&P/ASX200 Index, it offers banking at 21 locations around Australia, with a strong and expanding regional presence.

As a financial institution that builds its portfolio on supporting SMEs, Judo Bank’s alignment with Zipform underscores their commitment to fostering innovation and supporting home-grown businesses across the country. Zipform, and many others before it, have access to a banking team that listens to their needs and provides the tools and know-how to help them grow, boosting the economy and the potential for a cleaner future.

Zipform has been a key player in the Australian business landscape since 1984. Originally a manufacturer of computer stationery, the company has transformed into a multifaceted organisation with two business arms—Zipform Digital and Zipform Packaging.

With a focus on driving innovation through technology within the customer communications industry, Zipform Digital also provides data management, essential digital and print communications, digital archiving, and marketing communications services nationally, whereas the packaging side has earned a reputation as a leader in sustainability winning multiple local and global awards. Zipform Packaging is a progressive packaging provider that specialises in fibre-based packaging incorporating advanced manufacturing technologies.

With major clients like Swisse, Carmans, Pana Organic, Zero Co and Five AM, Zipform Packaging is making waves in the fast-moving consumer goods sector and positioning itself as a market leader in sustainable packaging solutions.

Judo Bank’s purpose focusses on the unique needs of SMEs across Australia, providing tailored financial solutions and genuine relationship banking. The challenger bank understands the obstacles businesses face in rural and regional areas, from access to finance, to funding agricultural equipment, to growing and expanding over time. Their hands-on approach and local expertise ensure that these businesses get the support they need. With Judo Bank’s increasing presence in regional areas, more business around the country can get benefit from a local, in-person, relationship-first approach.

Josh Boekhoorn, Regional Director at Judo Bank Perth, believes Zipform is another step in the right direction. With over 40 customers nationally in the recycling and waste remediation space, the bank is keen to support innovative SMEs in this sphere, and many others.

“We’re thrilled to be supporting Zipform as they evolve as a leader in both packaging and sustainable business in general,” Boekhorn says. “It’s a privilege to be part of their growth.”

For Zipform, it signals more than just a financial partnership – it reflects a shared vision for the future. Both organisations are passionate about sustainability, supporting local business, and driving innovation that benefits both people and the environment. As the demand for sustainable packaging solutions grows, Zipform is well-positioned to lead the charge, thanks to its pioneering approach and now, with the financial backing of Judo Bank, its ability to scale and expand its offerings.

Simon Backhouse, Zipform Group’s Managing Director, notes the value of Judo Bank’s relationship-first approach. “We consider Judo Bank part of our team, because we know they’re always available, fast and transparent,” he says.

As both Judo Bank and Zipform look to the future, their partnership symbolises the best of what regional businesses have to offer—innovation and a commitment to local success. For Judo Bank, it’s another example of sticking to core values: teamwork, accountability and trust. For Zipform, it’s a chance to grow and thrive even more. For both, it’s an opportunity to build something extraordinary.

Find out more about Zipform at www.zipform.com.au, and Judo Bank at www.judo.bank, or call 13JUDO.