42 | Norwood grows dealership presence Karen Phelps Norwood chief executive Tim Myers says everything the company does is focused on delivering superior customer outcomes. Manawatu: Norwood REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Norwood has been operating in Manawatu since 1948 and is proud to be a significant contributor to the local region and wider New Zealand, says Norwood chief executive and director Tim Myers. This has seen Norwood respond to the current challenges its agricultural customer base is facing by providing even better support and more targeted services. Part of this has involved investing heavily in bricks and mortar to grow its dealership presence from 15 to 25, and two new logistics locations, over the past seven years. Recent additions to the network include establishing dealerships in Cromwell, Taupo, Albany and Wellington, while a series of significant upgrades have occurred to pre-existing location in Mosgiel, Hawera and Palmerston North. Norwood has also recently acquired a three location dealership group in Ashburton, Timaru and Oamaru. “Our aim is to be within 90 minutes of every blade of grass in New Zealand to be close to our customer base,” says Tim. “So we are building on our traditional offering of providing the latest farm equipment from the best global brands to offer even better on farm services to support that as well. Everything Norwood does is focused on delivering superior customer outcomes so when people choose to engage with Norwood they want to come back.” Tim says that farm machinery has got increasingly complex over the years so a first class service offering has become even more essential. “The machines require a deep level of technical understanding in order to deliver optimal value when our customers are using them. So at each location we have technical experts to ensure farmers are getting the most out of the machines once they have invested in it,” explains Tim. “And where capital investment might not be appropriate we also offer a machinery hire option, which is becoming increasing popular.” Of course there is also a fully equipped workshop at every locations with an experienced team available 24/7, 365 days a year to keep farmers’ equipment in top condition. This includes an emergency breakdown service to get things up and running again as quickly as possible. Many repairs can be completed on-farm for added convenience but for longer or more complex repairs Norwood also has loan machinery on stand by that can support farmers in the meantime. “Our aim is to be within 90 minutes of every blade of grass in New Zealand to be close to our customer base.” to page 44 Importantly Norwood offers a centralised support system. “In Palmerston North we have a team of technical experts we can deploy quickly as well to help local teams as required. If a machine goes down it’s important we have a part to support it so investing into this area of our bus is a major focus. “We have the largest parts warehouse in the country meaning really quick and efficient delivery.” Tim says the dealerships are all deeply connected with the local communities in which they operate. This extends to supporting community events and initiatives. For example Norwood is a primary sponsor of the New Zealand Rural Games held in Palmerston North each year. “Norwood calls Manawatu home and we take our responsibility to that community, and communities all around New Zealand, very seriously. “We believe we have a role to play in supporting the communities in which we operate.” Part of this is helping to create local jobs. Norwood employs around 150 in Manawatu and another 300 around New Zealand. Norwood also offers an apprenticeship programme, which sees it take on around 25-30 apprentices each year in one intake. “We try to create a network for apprentices and provide best in class support as they make their way through the process. By taking a new approach to our apprenticeship programme, Norwood isn’t just ensuring farmers’ valuable machinery will be well supported in years to come. SUPPORTING NEW ZEALAND BUSINESS, RAIN OR SHINE We’re proud to be Norwood’s finance partner of choice to support rural New Zealand and help your business grow. So if you need to upgrade or replace equipment, we’re ready and waiting with flexible, hassle-free equipment finance that will keep you and your business moving. TALK TO YOUR LOCAL NORWOOD DEALER TODAY udc.co.nz/equipment | 0800 322 888 UDC Finance Limited
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