Buildlink: Best conference ever!hornet-r32.s3.amazonaws.com/hardwarejournal/2012/7/8eppl.pdf ·...
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AS THE EVENT came to an end, BuildLink CEO, Kevin Marevich, told us that this year’s conference was “probably one of our best ever”. Marevich said the reason for this was because of the large number of attendees and “the attitude of the members towards what we want to do and where they want to go”. is year BuildLink took a slightly different approach to its annual event. In the past, it was a conference where you would sit down and listen to the speakers and then go away to absorb what was going on, according to Group Support Manager, Mike Bishop. is year there were more workshops. is allowed for more interaction between the store owners which meant that there was more time to discuss what was relevant. e conference kicked off with an individual groups meeting on the ursday, followed by the trade fair which member principals and many staff from stores attended. Next morning, this was followed by three training presenters on what their organisations offer businesses in training of managers and staff for their future, something which the members seemed to appreciate. Mike Bishop led a discussion on buzz groups: “It involved the stores getting together and talking about what works in terms of signage, credit forms, cash payments, incentives; all of those sorts of things that surround their business, creating an environment or experience for their customers.” ere were also two presentations and reports which gave a valuable insight into future housing and buildings, one from James Hardie, the other from BuildLink staff. Friday also saw the continuation of the trade fair. is was followed by Mike Bishop presenting an overall report on mystery shopping surveys. e last presenter of the afternoon on Friday 6 July was from New Zealand Hardware Journal’s former columnist, Geoff Hardy. Hardy brought attendees up to date on the legal side of owning and running a business as well as planning for the future of it and discussed ways of helping stay in business during more difficult economic times. Finally, the piéce de resistance – the 2012 Gala Awards Dinner – came on Friday evening. MC for the night was Frano Botica, former New Zealand rugby union and league player. As the masses had their dinner and the awards were presented (see page 45 for the complete results), Botica related his own experiences in professional sport, all relating to what you have to do to succeed in business. WHAT’S NEW FOR BUILDLINK? Last year Home Hardware, Trowel Trades and Home Décor were introduced as extensions to the BuildLink group. A year on, Mike Bishop says that they have been faring “very well”. BUILDLINK: Best This year’s BuildLink conference was held at the Rendezvous Hotel in Auckland, over 5-6 July. Sean Martin reports. 38 NZHJ | August 2012 MORE AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
Transcript of Buildlink: Best conference ever!hornet-r32.s3.amazonaws.com/hardwarejournal/2012/7/8eppl.pdf ·...
As the event came to an end, BuildLink CEO, Kevin Marevich, told us that this year’s conference was “probably one of our best ever”. Marevich said the reason for this was because of the large number of attendees and “the attitude of the members towards what we want to do and where they want to go”.
This year BuildLink took a slightly different approach to its annual event. In the past, it was a conference where you would sit down and listen to the speakers and then go away to absorb what was going on, according to Group Support Manager, Mike Bishop. This year there were more workshops. This allowed for more interaction between the store owners which meant that there was more time to discuss what was relevant.
The conference kicked off with an individual groups meeting on the Thursday, followed by the trade fair which member principals and many staff from stores attended.
Next morning, this was followed by three training presenters on what their organisations offer businesses in training of managers and staff for their future, something which the members seemed to appreciate.
Mike Bishop led a discussion on buzz groups: “It involved the stores getting together and talking about what works in terms of signage, credit forms, cash payments, incentives; all of those sorts of things that surround their business, creating an environment or experience for their customers.”
There were also two presentations and reports which gave a valuable insight into future housing and buildings, one from James Hardie, the other from BuildLink staff.
Friday also saw the continuation of the trade fair. This was followed by Mike Bishop presenting an overall report on mystery shopping surveys.
The last presenter of the afternoon on Friday 6 July was from New Zealand Hardware Journal’s former columnist, Geoff Hardy. Hardy brought attendees up to date on the legal side of owning and running a business as well as planning for the future of it and discussed ways of helping stay in business during more difficult economic times.
Finally, the piéce de resistance – the 2012 Gala Awards Dinner – came on Friday evening. MC for the night was Frano Botica, former New Zealand rugby union and league player. As the masses had their dinner and the awards were presented (see page 45 for the complete results), Botica related his own experiences in professional sport, all relating to what you have to do to succeed in business.WHAT’S NEW FOR BUILDLINK?Last year Home Hardware, Trowel Trades and Home Décor were introduced as extensions to the BuildLink group.
A year on, Mike Bishop says that they have been faring “very well”.
Buildlink: Best conference ever! This year’s BuildLink conference was held at the Rendezvous Hotel in Auckland, over 5-6 July. sean Martin reports.
38 nzhj | August 2012 MoRe AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
Buildlink: Best conference ever! “These entities are working well in the group as we can essentially ‘bolt on’ one of those businesses to our existing members and that’s really added strength to the group.”
Since last year, two more Trowel Trades have joined the group, as well as three new Home Hardware stores and one new Home Décor store.
The conference was a complete success, according to Mike Bishop. Having only been with BuildLink for a few months, this was Bishop’s first event, but he feels that it could not have gone better: “I thought that it was very successful, judging from the feedback that I had from the suppliers. The members also said that it was very positive.”
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Summing up, although it’s been tough trading, CEO Kevin Marevich compares business in the last year to ballroom dancing: “Two steps backwards, one forward, side to side… But as long as you’re still on the floor at the end of the dance then you’re in a good position to go forward.
“From the point of view of consolidating a few things, making plans and strategies, where we think we can go as a group I think that we’re well placed to improve as the marketplace improves.”
Turn to page 45 for the low-down on BuildLink’s 2012 award winners!
39August 2012 | nzhjMoRe AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
Bradford Insulation, Ph 0800 277 123, Email [email protected] over 75 years, Bradford has been creating environmentally sustainable products to help improve the comfort and energy efficiency of our homes, offices and factories. Bradford Insulation has been warming New Zealand homes for over 20 years and enjoys a large and growing market share.
APCO Coatings, Ph 09 2733 041, Email [email protected] Coatings NZ Ltd manufactures earthtone exterior paint coatings. The range consists of: Limebuster, High Build’s & Elastomeric Finish. Used with cladding systems from Mineral Plaster Technology, earthtone completes a full exterior cladding system designed specifically for New Zealand conditions.
Browns Brushware Ltd, Ph 09 8273224, Email [email protected] Whiskers is proven for all seasons and conditions. Stops debris like leaves, branches and deters birds from blocking up gutters. Easy D.I.Y installation, bends around corners, affordable alternative.
Bostik NZ, Ph 09 257 5847, Email [email protected] is launching ALPHA GRIP, its new premium quality Foaming PU construction adhesive. Guaranteed 1HR cure and priced competitively for the NZ market. Available nationwide September 1.
Amalgamated Hardware Merchants Ltd, Ph 09 251 1300, Email [email protected] Trade continues to be the #1 choice of trade tools to the trade within the hardware and industrial markets. AHM is proud to be associated with the Independent BuildLink members.
Acme Supplies Ltd, Ph 09 379 6667, Email [email protected] Supplies is proud to present Rapid, Tajima and Felco brands to the BuildLink Group.
Alltrade Tools NZ Ltd, Ph 03 338 9620, Email [email protected] display a snapshot of quality Powerbuilt hand tools – serious tools for serious work, abrasives and promotional lines from Alltrade Tools New Zealand.
Ampelite, Ph 0800 267354Ampelite is New Zealand’s leading manufacturer and supplier of natural lighting building products offering an extensive range for domestic and industrial purposes. For all enquiries contact our Head Office.
40 nzhj | August 2012 MoRe AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
Coating Technologies Ltd, Ph 021 350 554, Email [email protected] stores in the BuildLink Group are carrying the COTEC brand of decorative paint as well as water based industrial products for steel, concrete floors and swimming pools.
C E Lawford Ltd, Ph 09 270 5910, Email [email protected] the hardware sector for 111 years. Now operating from our new Distribution Centre in Auckland. Contact us for your local representative’s details; but be quick, they’re old.
CRC Industries Limited, Ph 09 272 2700, Email [email protected] new CRC Permanent Markerpen is the ideal product for every toolbox. Supplying excellent coverage even on black surfaces it is fast drying with a durable tip. It can be used on huge variety of surfaces, and comes in 9 colours.
Cemix Products Ltd, Ph 09 636 1000, Email [email protected]’s market leader of bagged concrete and mortars - General Purpose, Fast Set Concretes and Masonry Mortar Mix. Flagship brands for over 30 years such as Cemkey, Cemplus, Bituproof Plus and Reveal.
Euro Corporation, Ph 09 271 1627, Email [email protected] was the first to the market with its Xtra-Ductile 500e mesh range. Each batch is fully tested and guaranteed compliant. Eurocorp also sells New Zealands only “S” mark Reinforcing Rod.
FW Cave Ltd, Ph 09 415 7766 , Email [email protected] W Cave Ltd is a proud BuildLink supplier and was delighted to showcase its new & exclusive BuildLink branded range of paint brushes & roller sleeves at the Trade Show alongside the MasterLock range of padlocks & select access lock boxes. Not forgetting Indalex ladders where the firm once again demonstrated the world’s only ladder leveller – the Level-Arc.
Firth/Dricon, Ph 0274 936417, Email [email protected]/Dricon re-launched its standard RapidSet with a higher strength 20MPa structural mix design. Now with the same strength as HandiCrete it’s even easier for builders using Dricon products.
GDP Flooring Solutions, Ph 07 571 8003, Email [email protected] Flooring Solutions introduces the Ram Board range of temporary flooring and new door jamb protection items. Ram Board offers impact resistance, spill guard and protection against construction site damage.
41August 2012 | nzhjMoRe AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
James Hardie, www.scyon.co.nzJames Hardie is proud to introduce Scyon®, an advanced lightweight cement composite with heavy-duty performance. For information on the Scyon range of products ASK JAMES HARDIE or visit www.scyon.co.nz.
Independent Building Supplies Limited, Ph 0800 FORPLY, Email [email protected] distributes panel products throughout New Zealand. Its focus is on sourcing the best panel products from all around the world, backed with outstanding service – every time.
Macsim Fastenings NZ Ltd, Ph 09 579 0801, Email [email protected] supplies quality fastening products, screws, masonry & hollow wall anchors, bolts, rivets, cable ties, silicones, duct tape & framing nails. Available in Trade Box, Trade Hang Sell Packaging and convenient Jar Packs.
ITW Proline, Ph 0800 277 577, Email: [email protected] Proline promoted its new Ramset mid pack range and new Buildex “Made for Trade” screw range to BuildLink.
Global Survey Ltd, Ph 09 4782032, Email [email protected] Survey is NZ’s largest locally owned and operated supplier of measurement and positioning technology to the surveying, construction and building markets. It prides itself on having the best technical expertise and service in the industry.
Holdfast NZ Ltd, Ph 0800 701080, Email [email protected] is proud to support its range of sealants & adhesives with our new versatile Mr Gorilla Extra Tough Wipes. Its wipes remove Gorilla Grip and Glue, paint and ink and are perfect for hands and tools. Clean hands = productive hands.
Harkness & Young Ltd, Ph 09 276 4071, Email [email protected] mobile scaffold is a trade tough, portable scaffold system, with a folding design allowing simple and speedy erection and dismantling. Perfect for the trade and serious DIY user.
Hume Pine (NZ) Ltd, Ph 07 345 6994, Email [email protected] Pine (NZ) Ltd is the proud supplier of quality New Zealand made Radiata Pine moulding and board products, complimented by Silktrim HMR MDF Mouldings to the BuildLink Group.
42 nzhj | August 2012 MoRe AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
Masons Plastabrick Ltd., Ph 09 4147551, Email North Island – [email protected], South Island [email protected] proudly sponsors the BuildLink members with a wide range of products for building tradesmen and the D.I.Yer visit us on www.mpb.co.nz
Manners Building Products Ltd, Ph 09 415 7488, Email [email protected] is Manners’ game! Our company focus stems from our mission statement - to source ‘Exclusive, Quality, Brands” Thus our display features tools and building products offering great value to members of the BuildLink family.
Metrotile Roofing Systems, Ph 09 299 9498, Email [email protected] gets rid of moss, mould, mildew and lichen on roofs, pathways, patios, decks, fences, outdoor furniture and more.
Manufacturing Suppliers Ltd, Ph 0800 425262, Email [email protected] new Deck it range showcased at the BuildLink Trade Show is designed specifically in New Zealand for New Zealand conditions. Quality T304 grade stainless steel Joist Hangers and Multi Connectors, manufactured to meet the needs of all professionally constructed timber decking.
PermaPine, Ph 07 333 8523, Email [email protected] is proud to supply the BuildLink Group with a broad range of quality roundwood products including posts, poles, piles, large treated timbers, and lifestyle fencing. Contact your local BuildLink store and specify PermaPine product
Pryda New Zealand, Ph 0800 88 22 44, Email [email protected] is pleased to support BuildLink with tested, New Zealand manufactured timber connectors that meet all the requirements of the current building codes, backed up by structural engineering design support.
Plumbing World, www.plumbingworld.co.nzPlumbing World is proud to be associated with the BuildLink Group. There isn’t a lot we don’t know about Plumbing… it’s what we do, it’s what we know and now it’s what makes the difference when you shop with BuildLink.
Selleys, Ph 0800 735 539, www.selleys.co.nzSelling the “SPEED” story with Selleys. Leading through Innovation.
43August 2012 | nzhjMoRe AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
Tooline, Ph 03 365 5931, Email [email protected] Tooline branded benchtop machinery is increasingly available in BuildLink Member’s stores. Of special interest now are 250 and 305mm slide compound mitre saws and a heavy duty 4m mitre saw stand.
The Laminex Group, Ph 0800 303 707, Email [email protected] Laminex Group is proud to supply BuildLink with high performing building products, laminates and wet-area paneling. TLG’s range of vertical solutions sets the tone for inspiring and creative designs.
United Steel Ltd, Ph 09 274 5535, Email [email protected] Steel is a leading New Zealand manufacturer of reinforcing mesh and nails, as well as a supplier of structural steel, reinforcing rod, steel plates and allied products. Freephone: 0800 800 649.
Thermakraft Industries, Ph 0800 806 595, Email [email protected] appreciated the opportunity to attend the 2012 BuildLink Trade Show. It provided an ideal opportunity to showcase our range of products, especially the Synthetic Roofing and Wall Underlay.
Sika (NZ) Limited, Ph 0800 745 269 (0800 SIKA NZ), Email [email protected] is an economical, seamless, liquid roof waterproofing membrane with excellent crack-bridging properties. Ideal for new and refurbishment projects, with excellent UV resistance and adhesion to porous and non-porous surfaces.
Steel and Tube Holdings Ltd, Ph 09 271 1883, Email [email protected] Steel & Tube is proud to be part of BuildLink’s growth in the building and construction markets. Steel & Tube provides a broad range of product including reinforcing, piping, fastenings, structural steel, roofing and much more.
Steelfort Engineering Ltd, Ph 06 350 1350, Email [email protected] is a brand created by Steelfort to cater directly to the home handyman, providing optimum value for money.
St Gobain Abrasives, Ph 09 83-47119, www.norton.co.nzSaint-Gobain was pleased to be associated with the BuildLink trade exhibition; members showed particular interest in the Clipper range of Construction Diamond Cutting Blades and the new Flexovit Ultra-thin cutting discs.
44 nzhj | August 2012 MoRe AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
WHO WON AT THE 2012 BUILDLINK AWARDS?There were a total of seven group awards presented at this
year’s BuildLink Conference. Here is a round-up of who won
what:
• Suppliers’ Best BuildLink Store – Whitianga hardware
BuildLink.
• Premier Supplier Award – Firth Industries Dricon Division.
• Top Store Award – Home Hardware – Waihi Beach home
hardware.
• Top Store Award – Trowel Trades – Morningside Trowel
Trades.
• BuildLink Top Service Award (the highest scoring mystery
shop) – Matamata BuildLink.
• BuildLink Supreme Store Award – Lumberland BuildLink.
• BuildLink Attitude Award – Peppers Building Supplies
BuildLink.
Winstone Wallboards,Ph 0800 475 475, Fax 0800 229 222You’re protected with GIB® plasterboard systems. For over 80 years, building professionals have been relying on GIB® plasterboard systems. Locally made, to meet or exceed NZ’s stringent building code, BRANZ appraised and backed by full technical information and support, to give you complete peace of mind.
Wattyl NZ Ltd, Ph 0800 500 182, Email [email protected] choice of traditional oil-based and new water based stains that enhance the look of exterior timber in ways you will absolutely love. This suberb range of colours allows the exterior of a home to be as much of a fashion statement as the interior.
Wholesafe Safety and Outdoors, Ph 06 363 7311, Email [email protected] is a leader in wholesale supply of trade and professional quality personal safety products,including footwear, hearing protection, gloves, work wear and eye protection from Redwing, Blundstone, Elvex, Blue Eagle and Carhartt.
45August 2012 | nzhjMoRe AT www.hardwarejournal.co.nz
