[2] It had several businesses across the surrounding states in industries such as manufacturing, boating including yachts and races[3] and hardware and electrical equipment.

[5] Donald Trescowthick took over control of the business from the Davis family in the 1970s[6] and the company embarked on significant expansion and diversification under his management.

[8] Philips Industries of Launceston was acquired in 1974, giving the company presence in each of the state's three main regions, south, Burnie in the northwest.

[citation needed] At this time, the company merged its Harris Scarfe and FitzGerald's retailing operations, which continued to grow to become Australia's third largest department store group.

It also once owned interests in Perpetual Insurance and Securities, owner of Eastlands Shopping Centre which increased from 83% to 91% in 1973-1974 and also in Co-Operative Motors, distributor of Toyota, Triumph, Mercedes-Benz and Rambler.