About us | Good Design Matters

OUR STORY

True to the meaning behind our acronym – Good Design Matters – GDM recognises that the best design-thinking never stands still. We’re constantly evolving, challenging ourselves to improve what we do while holding fast to what works.

At GDM, we’re committed to innovation and improvement, building on 47 years of expertise as a leading retail fixtures designer and manufacturer.

Since joining the Bartley Group Holdings collective in 2024, we have embraced the opportunity to refine production processes and sharpen our focus on continual improvement in our design-led manufacturing.

LEADERS IN DESIGN

We design specifically for you. From invisible to unmissable; good design is what you need when you need it.

FUTURE FOCUSED

We have an appetite for innovation. We prepare your business for the future with the best innovation and technology of now.

QUALITY DRIVEN

We're uncompromising.

From Health & Safety compliance to functionality and durability; quality is our priority.

PROBLEM SOLVING

We're ready to take on any challenge. Our customers know their businesses best; our solutions are made to meet their unique needs.

New Zealand manufacturing

Where we're from matters to us. Being a locally owned and operated business shapes who we are, what we value, how we work with others. Being connected to this place means having a strong sense of responsibility.

We're a Kiwi business through and through. We value fairness, integrity, our
community, our environment, innovation, practicality and open-mindedness.

Our work begins in the heart of Whanganui's manufacturing district, with the ever-changing Awa flowing alongside us as we work. Just beyond the river mouth and the Tasman Sea crashing against the beautiful black sand of New Zealand's wild West Coast. Where we're from matters to us, and it makes a difference in the work that we do.

We’re motivated by challenge, confident in our ability to deliver exceptional products, and proud of our achievements.

Brendon Bartley

Managing Director

Innovative from the beginning

GDM was established in 1978 in Whanganui, New Zealand. Under the guidance of Michael and Sandra Eden, the owner-operated venture became an award-winning supplier of retail solutions for national and international brands.

As its reputation and success grew, GDM prioritised embracing technology, championing design-led manufacturing and expanding its skill base.

GDM’s growth enabled it to establish production support avenues in China, while maintaining and strengthening its Whanganui base. In 2005, GDM expanded across the Tasman, and we maintain a productive sales and logistical hub in Queensland, Australia.

Our new era drives a bright future

In 2024, GDM was purchased by Bartley Group Holdings, an intergenerational family-owned company based in Whanganui.

This continuity of local ownership along with the Bartley’s manufacturing sector roots, experience managing a diverse business base, and commitment to further growing the business, enabled a successful transition for GDM.

In addition to its diverse business portfolio, the Bartley Group has a proud history of supporting the local community, caring for people, and leading by example. The Group’s activities include the provision of access to important health services through its charitable arm, the Robert Bartley Foundation.