01 June 2007
	SIDELINES CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

James Beattie, head of start-up company Xanita, describes the process of developing his product and establishing the company as a "brutal journey". But with manufacturing under way, exports taking place and representation in Brisbane, London and Stockholm, life looks good. The company develops and produces X-Board, a composite board made up of paper honeycomb sandwiched between two outer layers of laminate. "Paper honeycomb was patented in 1914. But with today's adhesives, treatments and barrier coatings we have taken a primitive development and fast forwarded it," Beattie says. The material is stronger and lighter than conventional particle or plasterboard. It is made from recycled materials and can, in turn, be recycled. Applications vary - from retail displays to shop fittings. Beattie was the group MD and later the chairman of Omnigraphics, a digital print company. He will draw on the contacts built in this business to develop Xanita, which he says is a "much bigger opportunity". A recent cause for excitement is Spur Steak Ranches' agreement for the product to undergo trials in 10 of its stores