| 51 REGIONAL Mitre 10 MEGA Masterton T T Anne Boswell Furthering founder’s inspirational vision 0800 224 759 | sales@bbi.net.nz | www.bbi.net.nz Proudly supporting Mitre 10 Mega - Masteron Plywood Timber PHOTOS: Lucia Zanmonti Photography • New Homes • Renovations and alterations • Timber windows and all types of joinery EXCEPTIONAL ACHIEVEMENT RECOGNISED WITH GOLD AWARD CALL US TODAY Akura Road, Masterton | Phone 06 377 4025 admin@rigg-zschokke.co.nz | www.rigg-zschokke.co.nz A decade-and-a-half after its transition to a MEGA Store, Mitre 10 MEGA Masterton has cemented itself as a cornerstone of the Wairarapa community. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, the business has grown into a major local employer, a destination for customers across the region, and a strong supporter of community initiatives. With 100 employees, an on-site Columbus Coffee café, a frame and truss plant and a mechanical workshop servicing lawnmowers and chainsaws, the operation is a significant part of the local community. Managing Director, Shareholder and Member Principal Ejvind Frederiksen says the store’s success has always been built around people. The roots of the business stretch back more than 40 years, when original owner Rex Slight started Mitre 10 in a modest 3m x 3m building. His vision laid the foundation for what the business has become today. “It was his inspiration that gave me and Rex’s son, Aaron Slight, the opportunity to be part of the co-operative,” Ejvind says. “We are here to serve the community and help where we can.” Today, Aaron remains a business partner and shareholder while Ejvind oversees the day-to-day operation of the business. This philosophy is reflected in the company’s values: a strong focus on customers, working as one team, being honest and fair, and striving for excellence. Ejvind makes a point of serving on the shop floor and connecting with staff every day. “I’m no different from the rest of the team; I just have broader responsibilities,” he says. The business has developed a reputation for its strong workplace culture. “We have an excellent management team and outstanding staff on the floor,” Ejvind says. “I couldn’t ask for any better. We have a low turnover of staff, which presents that we are doing something right.” Community involvement has become one of the defining features of the business over the past 15 years. One of its latest projects was the refurbishment of the popular Masterton Miniature Train system at Queen Elizabeth II Park. The $25,000 project included revamping tunnels, repainting signage, upgrading rails, and giving the attraction a fresh look. “It will benefit not only the Masterton community but the whole country, as anyone can come and bring their kids along,” Ejvind says. The store is also a major supporter of Life Flight, recognising the essential service it provides in emergencies, and regularly contributes to local schools and other community initiatives throughout the Wairarapa. The company’s achievements have also been recognised nationally. In 2012, just one year after opening as a MEGA store, it won Retail Store of the Year at the Hardware Journal Awards. “Being recognised at such an early stage of ownership was pretty special,” Ejvind says. He also credits the wider Mitre 10 New Zealand co-operative and support centre for All aboard the Mitre 10 Express! One of its latest projects was the refurbishment of the popular Masterton Miniature Train system at Queen Elizabeth II Park. “We are here to serve the community and help where we can.” helping stores succeed through supplier relationships, business partnerships and ongoing system upgrades and tech support. “Am I proud to be part of the Mitre 10 co-operative? Without a doubt,” he says. “It is the best company to be a part of. Thank you, Rex.”
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