CRC CONNECTION_72 Aug_26

A PAC M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R AUGUST 2026 ISSUE #72

Building a stronger supply chain for the future Over the past several months, CRC has been working on a major transformation of our Australian logistics network, transitioning our 3PL operations from DGL to Mainfreight. This move is a key part of our broader supply chain strategy and positions the business for future growth, improved customer service, and greater operational resilience.

Why Mainfreight?

Following a comprehensive review of our logistics requirements, Mainfreight was selected due to its strong infrastructure, advanced systems capability, national network, and Dangerous Goods expertise. The transition addresses historical service constraints while creating a scalable platform that can support CRC’s future needs.

Progress to Date The transition has involved extensive planning, system integration, master data preparation, EDI development, customer communication, and the physical transfer of inventory. Significant progress has been made, with inventory migration completed, Mainfreight facilities operationally ready, and system testing successfully concluded. The first orders were dispatched from Mainfreight on 26 August as part of the soft go live. The hard go-live is planned for 1 September, with a focus on returning to business as usual as quickly as possible.

What This Means for CRC Once fully implemented, Mainfreight will provide: • Improved service reliability and customer experience • Enhanced inventory visibility and supply chain control • Increased automation through integrated EDI processes • Stronger Dangerous Goods compliance and safety management • A scalable platform to support future business growth Thank You A project of this scale is only possible through collaboration. Thank you to everyone across Operations, Supply Chain, Customer Service, Finance, IT, and our external partners who have contributed to making this transition a success.

The hard work invested today is helping to build a stronger, more capable supply chain for CRC tomorrow.

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

AUGUST 2026 Sales Update AUGUST 2026

YTD 2026

-8.3% vs PY

+8.2 vs PY

-0.4% vs LE2

AUSTRALIA

+9.6% vs PY +15.3% vs LE2

+3.9% vs PY NEW ZEALAND

+78.1% vs PY +33.5 vs LE2

ASEAN

INDIA

+10.2% vs LE2 +24.4% vs PY

CHINA

+3.5% vs PY +7.4% vs LE2

+5.3% vs LE2 +16.2% vs PY

+7.3% vs PY -9.3% vs LE2

+1.8% vs LE2 +34.7% vs PY

+111.8% vs PY +78.1% vs LE2

-0.6% vs LE2

-4.0% vs LE2 +6.3% vs PY

APAC

+0.8% vs LE2

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

annual tradeshow 2026 The 2026 TradeZone Annual Tradeshow kicked off in style on 21 & 22nd August at the Cordis Hotel with CRC making the most of the opportunity to connect with TradeZone stores from across the country.

Tadak, Peter, Jono, and James delivered a fast-paced “speed dating” sales presentation to each store, generating more than $300,000 in sales during the event. With several stores still to place their orders, the team is on track to surpass last year’s impressive result!

A key highlight was the launch of the exclusive TradeZone Nicky’s Fishing promotion, which will feature on the front cover of the October–November TradeZone catalogue, providing excellent visibility for the CRC brand and product range.

The event concluded with the TradeZone Awards Dinner, where CRC was recognised as a finalist for Consumables Supplier of the Year. Attendees also enjoyed an entertaining evening hosted by comedian Paul Ego, best known as the voice of the PAK’nSAVE Stickman.

A special thank you goes to Tadak, Peter, Jono, Vaughan, and Coskun, along with our Operations and Customer Service teams, whose support and dedication helped make the event a success.

Together, we get it done!

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

NZ Safety Blackwo expo & awards night 2026 The 2026 NZ Safety Blackwoods (NZSB) Annual Expo which was held on the 16th - 20th August at the Due Drops Events Centre in Auckland, commenced with a supplier presentation and an inspiring message from NZSB General Manager, Andy Antoci, who highlighted the company’s recent achievements, including the completion of the new Auckland Distribution Centre and the successful launch of the NZSB website. These milestones have strengthened the business foundation, enhancing service levels, product availability, and operational efficiency to better support customers and drive shared growth.

CRC had a strong presence throughout the event, showcasing the Greenlight Food Grade App alongside core & new FG Range, including Weld-Aid Anti-Spatter, the NF Range, EVRC, and Evapo-Rust Gels. The products generated significant interest and were very well received by NZSB team members from across New Zealand.

Day two began with a trade breakfast attended by more than 100 key NZSB customers. This provided an excellent opportunity to engage directly with end users, raise awareness of CRC’s global focus products, and reinforce the value of partnering with CRC to deliver practical solutions for customer businesses.

The Expo concluded with the Beers, Bites & Bubbles Awards Evening, where CRC was recognised as a finalist in the Marketing Collaboration Category, competing among more than 100 supplier partners.

This achievement reflects the strength of our collaboration and commitment to supporting NZSB and its customers.

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

NEW

Auto One & A1 Auto Parts annual conference

We recently spent three days exhibiting at the Auto One & A1 Auto Parts Annual Conference held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The event kicked off with a business session featuring Auto One Managing Director, Mark Greenwood, who shared key business updates and insights into the group’s performance. A standout takeaway was that CRC is currently growing at more than double the rate of Auto One, highlighting the strength of our partnership and the opportunities ahead.

From there, it was straight into the trade show component of the conference. The event brought together representatives from 43 company-owned and franchised stores, support office staff, and 53 suppliers. The format was a “speed dating” style trade show, with suppliers given 15-minute sessions with each store group to discuss performance, gather feedback, and identify opportunities for mutual growth.

Our focus was on showcasing the latest additions to the Evapo-Rust range, including the new Evapo-Rust Canister, Brush-On Gel and Rust Block. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with strong interest and commitments from stores to stock the new products. Other standout performers included CRC Peel Off, Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner, Glass Cleaner and 5-56, all of which attracted plenty of compliments and, more importantly, orders.

We’re on track to achieve our sales forecast for the event, with follow-up orders expected to help us reach our target as well as some additional products going into the Auto One DC from the merch team visit to our stand. A big Thank-You to our marketing team, especially Michele for creating a fabulous conference deal booklet which helped stores build their orders and to our customer experience team for processing the orders.

Day two featured a Lunch & Learn session hosted by automotive expert John Cadogan, who interviewed several suppliers on the topic of Australian manufacturing. The discussion explored the challenges and opportunities Australian businesses face as they strive to become more environmentally sustainable while remaining competitive.

The conference concluded with a Casino Royale-themed gala dinner and store awards presentation. The evening also included a major announcement from Auto One regarding its plans to rebrand all A1 Auto Parts stores to Auto One, bringing the network together under a single brand. Fittingly, this aligned with the conference theme of becoming “Stronger as One.” A shout out to Brett McKibbin for all the help at the event.

Watch the highlights

>>>>> here<<<<<<

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

HSY EVOLVE auto festival 2026 On Saturday 15 August, we attended the annual HSY EVOLVE Auto Festival, a unique technical training event that brings together workshops, suppliers, and industry experts for a hands-on learning experience. Unlike a traditional trade show, EVOLVE provides technicians with the opportunity to work on real vehicles while learning about the latest products, technologies, and industry best practices.

This year’s event was held at Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE), widely regarded as one of Australia’s premier automotive training facilities. The festival was divided into three key components, beginning with the popular Coffee & Cars gathering. Attendees enjoyed a showcase of European and high-performance vehicles while connecting with fellow automotive enthusiasts and experiencing Melbourne’s vibrant car culture.

The focus then shifted to the state-of-the-art workshop bays at ACE, where suppliers delivered practical product training sessions. For CRC, the spotlight was on the SmartWasher® system. With multiple units set up on-site, we demonstrated the bioremediation process and showcased the features that differentiate CRC SmartWasher® from traditional parts washing solutions. Attendees were able to see the system in action and gain a deeper understanding of its environmental, safety, and operational benefits.

The response was extremely positive. We were pleased to learn that five of the attending workshops already use SmartWasher®, while discussions during the event generated leads for an additional three units.

One of the highlights of the day came from the Kangan Institute educators, who were highly impressed with the SmartWasher® system. Their enthusiasm led to the installation of a SmartWasher® unit within the Institute’s Motorsport training area. This is a fantastic outcome, ensuring that apprentices are introduced to safe, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective parts cleaning practices early in their careers.

The day concluded with an after-party at the Lindsay Fox Classic Car Museum, providing an excellent opportunity to reconnect with workshop owners, suppliers, and industry peers. The relaxed social setting allowed conversations from the day’s technical sessions to continue, making it the perfect way to reflect on a successful event, share ideas, and finish EVOLVE on a high.

Check out the day here: https://youtu.be/kYvkN326eWU

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

QME & QMIHSC trade shows in Queensland

David Bailey & Brett Rokesky attended both the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) in Mackay and the Queensland Mining Industry Health & Safety Conference (QMIHSC) on the Gold Coast this month. Achieving strong engagement and excellent results across both events.

The shows generated solid leads for SmartWasher resulting in multiple sales so far. The NF range is getting implemented for trials at Kestrel Coal, Ensham Coal, Cummins Diesel, Mammoth Underground and Glencore Collinsville Coal. We have been working for some time on getting samples of the NF range to Glencore and we succeeded after a solid meeting with Glencore’s head of Safety at QMIHSC. One of the other major wins was a discussion with Progress Rail on their progression to NF range. This could yield solid numbers for both CRC and our distributors.

There was also a strong showing from end users that have currently switched to NF range including, BMA, Hastings Deering, Anglo Coal, Komatsu, councils, and smaller engineering businesses that are encouraged by the results of the CRC non-flammable offer.

AgQuip 2026

By Nathan Gili

AgQuip 2026 delivered a fantastic three days for CRC, in support of Blackwoods, with the event running from Tuesday 18th to Thursday 20th August. Positive customer engagement across the three days helped drive sales, but the event also provided a great opportunity to educate regional customers on the CRC range and new products, whilst also offering technical and application advice to help customers get the most from our products.

Strong crowds were a key feature of the event, helped by brilliant weather throughout the week compared with the torrential rain that affected AgQuip in 2025. Overall, it was a great result for CRC, contributing to Blackwoods’ impressive total event sales of more than $430,000. 5-56 was once again the standout performer, while Tac-2, Brakleen, CO Contact Cleaner, Dry Glide and LanoShield were also popular sales. The Trefolex range proved particularly popular with the older and more experienced customer base, with many taking the opportunity to stock up on their favourites.

Next month, I’ll be heading south to support Blackwoods again at the Henty Machinery Field Days. Following the great result at AgQuip, I am looking forward to another opportunity to connect with regional customers, showcase the CRC range and hopefully support another successful event.

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

Health & safety reminder

BE AWARE OF ZONE 1 & ZONE 2 HAZARDOUS AREAS Many areas across our sites are classified as Zone 1 or Zone 2 Hazardous Areas due to the presence of flammable gases, vapours, and liquids. A Zone 1 area is where an explosive atmosphere may occur during normal operations, while a Zone 2 area is where it is not normally present but could still occur under abnormal conditions.

Always follow site signage and safe work procedures and never introduce ignition sources or use non-approved equipment, including mobile phones, within these areas. Understanding and complying with hazardous area requirements helps protect yourself and your colleagues from serious incidents.

Toolbox talks #3 Primers

We had our third Toolbox Talk this month with over 40 participants tuning in to learn all things, Primers!

It was a great session where we covered the basics of what primers are and why they are used, etch primers and how these work, and examined our ANZ range of primers and where they should be used.

The key takeaways worth noting from this session were:

• • • • • • •

Primers improve topcoat adhesion and protect metal from corrosion Prime It: Ideal for bare steel exposed to the elements before topcoating Prep It: Sandable primer for creating a smooth finish before topcoating Etch Primers: Acid-based primers that enhance adhesion by etching metal surfaces Etch It: Suitable for ferrous and non-ferrous metals where strong adhesion is required Etch 10: Provides superior adhesion on ferrous and non-ferrous metals, especially in harsh environments Metal Armour: Primer and sealer for bare steel and mixed metals after rust treatment

>>>>> Click here for content <<<<<<

Keep an eye out on your inbox for the invite to our next Toolbox Talk!

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

Voice of the Associate Survey 2026

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

You Spoke.

We Listened.

Over the past two years, your feedback has helped drive positive changes across CRC. As the 2026 Voice of the Associate Survey approaches, take a look at the progress we’ve made together and discover how your insights can continue to shape our future.

Key progress since 2024 > Rewards and Recognition • Employee Recognition Programme and revised Annual Awards format. > Communication • Townhalls – virtual APAC Townhalls and quarterly in person for AU and NZ • CRC Connections Newsletter – evolved and includes region-wide content > Work Environment • Office and lunch room refurbishment to AU and NZ sites to support collaboration • Investment in new plant and equipment > Performance Enablement • Mid-year reviews implemented > Engagement & Knowledge Sharing Activities • APAC Engagement team established • Lunch and Learn sessions • Tool Box Talks • Regular activities and social events

SURVEY OPENS SEPTEMBER 8TH

> Learning and Development • Crucial Learning and Development Program • Emerging Leaders Team – training and development

APPROXIMATELY 20 MINUTES

Why your input matters Your voice shapes our future Your feedback helps us improve Your insights drive meaningful change

Survey details Start date: 8 September End date: 26 September Estimated time: Approximately 20 minutes Confidentiality: Responses are reported in aggregate only

What happens next • Results will be used to develop action plans • Improvements will continue based on your feedback Thank you for taking the time to provide your honest feedback. Your participation is essential to our continued success.

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

Welcome to

Geoffrey Combeer & Majok Yac (Castle Hill production) both initially joined us as temporary employees.

In recognition of their excellent work ethic and valuable contributions to the business, they have now been appointed as permanent CRC employees.

Geoffrey Leo Combeer - Australia

My name is Geoffrey. Before I came to CRC, I was unloading containers, then I found myself at CRC helping run the aerosol line among other things. I’m a fast learner who enjoys taking on new challenges and bringing something unique to the team. Outside of work, I enjoy playing Oztag and rugby, and most importantly, spending quality time with my family.

Majok Yac - Australia

I come from a shopfitting and refit background, as well as a demolition and renovations background, which I worked in for three years. Looking for a change, I joined CRC Industries and now work as a production worker.

I’m an adrenaline enthusiast who enjoys staying active and taking on new challenges. Outside of work, I spend my time playing rugby league, training at the gym, practicing Muay Thai and boxing, jet skiing, and participating in just about any outdoor activity or sport I can find.

Yvette Bartosiak - Customer Service Representative Australia

Congratulations to Yvette Bartosiak who has also recently accepted a permanent full-time position as Customer Service Representative (Australia).

Hi, I’m Yvette. Prior to joining CRC, I worked at Cytec Australia as a Customer Service and Inbound Logistics Specialist. I have more than 30 years of experience in customer service roles and enjoy building strong relationships while supporting customers.

Family is a big part of my life, & in my spare time I enjoy taking short trips up the coast and attending musicals.

Social club hits game over!

The CRC Social Club was back in action for a fantastic night out at Game Over in Auckland!

The team enjoyed a great mix of activities, with go-karting, mini-golf and ten-pin bowling providing plenty of friendly competition and a few laughs along the way. The night was rounded out with plenty of pizza, drinks and good company.

It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to get together outside of the office, have some fun and enjoy each other’s company. A great night was had by all, and we’re already looking forward to the next CRC Social Club event!

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

APAC BINGO! Connecting our teams through fun!

Throughout August, CRC APAC colleagues have been getting to know each other a little better through our CRC Engagement BINGO activity!

Running across the month, employees were given a new BINGO card each week, featuring a range of fun and interactive activities designed to encourage people to step outside their usual routines, connect with colleagues and learn something new about the people they work with.

And, of course, there were some great prizes up for grabs along the way!

A big congratulations to our weekly winners: Week 1: Daniel Kanon – NZ Week 2: Shaun Constable – NZ Week 3: Maha Mahalingam – AU Week 4: Paul Holt – AU We also had a Best Photo, with congratulations going to Chris Herman – AU for capturing many a standout moment! A special shout-out goes to Team India, who achieved an impressive result in Week 4 with every member of the team participating – fantastic effort!

It has been great to see teams across APAC getting involved, having some fun and taking the opportunity to connect with colleagues they may not interact with every day.

Well done to everyone who participated, and thank you for making CRC APAC BINGO such a success!

Prize winners, please contact Stacey Moss who will be able to arrange delivery of your prize.

You are able to pick from a nice red wool Swanddri(1) or a Leatherman Rebar Multitool(2).

Check out these fantastic photo entries. A big well done to everyone who participated!

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A P A C M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R

AUGUST 2026

ISSUE #72

Game on, team NZ! The NZ team have made good use out of the small temporary pool table, so it was time for an upgrade! The new pool table is now installed. We will look to organise some friendly pool competitions shortly. Enjoy Team NZ!

Internal events October 2026

TT

AU

NZ

INDIA

16 Oct - AU Club Dinner (10+ Years Service) 6 Nov - NZ Club Dinner (10+ Years Service)

November 2026

7 Nov - CRC Fishing Charter AU Golf day

December 2026

10 Dec - AU Christmas Function 17 Dec - NZ Christmas Function

January 2027

20 Jan - AU Kick off Meeting 28 Jan - NZ Kick off Meeting PAGE 12