Session 4: Qenos: The Diamond in the Rough


Australia’s only producer and leading supplier of polyethylene, Qenos has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s manufacturing and chemical industries. Yet, like many industrial giants, it has faced immense headwinds — from global competition and volatile energy costs, to structural shifts in demand and sustainability pressures. This session will explore Qenos as a case study in resilience and renewal. Our panel will unpack:

• The challenges faced by one of Australia’s critical industrial players.

• How turnaround strategies can unlock value in capital-intensive, legacy industries; and

• Lessons for boards, management, and investors navigating distressed situations in complex supply chains.

A story of hidden strength and untapped potential, Qenos is a reminder that diamonds can often be found in the roughest terrain.