94 | Compac Homes BUILDING Small home builder triples production Sue Russell When COVID arrived, bringing all manner of uncertainties for many, Simon and Deb Fleming, Director of Compac Homes, based in Ohinewai, North Waikato, saw it rather as a time to seize business opportunities. And that opportunity came in the form of purchasing the business late 2020. “We thought we would dive in boots and all,” is the best way Simon describes that time. They were attracted to Compac Homes, for its potential to evolve further, by improving key efficiencies, enabling growth in the already in demand, transportable home sector. Securing additional land enabled the team to create an additional assembly line, thus increasing the output of bespoke small dwellings, that could be built at any one time. And the timing couldn’t have been better, as more and more people, sought opportunities to simplify their lives and life-style, get on to the property ladder or to down-size into a smaller home, with the flexibility that it could be relocated as needed. “It tripled our production and that’s brought challenges around staffing. In terms of this area, we are a significant employer.” Compac Homes key strengths are that all aspects of the production of each home are handled on site, in a controlled environment, meaning that Simon and the team can control all elements of the build. Another strength is that, while there are standard sizes to their homes, beyond that, owners have every opportunity to personalise all the fixtures and fittings. “No two homes are the same. Our quote comes with a range of standard options, but clients are free to have anything they want built inside their home. These are not mass-produced identical dwellings by any means. It’s all about owners being able to make it their own.” Given this, the design process is no difference from if the owner were building a house. Asked what his day to day responsibilities are, Simon first says he’s there to support staff to enjoy their work and feel part of a close-knit team. He is also always looking for ways to improve the already lean and highly efficient manufacturing process. “We eliminated the very small stuff, so that now, every part of the manufacturing process, is effective, efficient and enables us to offer homes at very affordable prices.” And by increasing the volume it also meant that contractors engaged on inputting into the manufacturing process have been given opportunities to strengthen their own businesses, such as in the case of J T Flooring, who receive ongoing business from Compac Homes. “That means in turn, that we get really good rates from our contractors, so it’s a win-win for all.” On site, are two show-homes, for visitors to view, giving examples of fitting and fixture options to spur viewers imaginations. Compac Homes produces transportable homes on trailers in a series of sizes from the 10m x 3 or 4m Ātiamuri Range, the 12m x 3 or 4m Arapuni Range and the 14m x 4m Karapiro Range. Given its scale now, at any one time up to 20 customer builds are underway. It means also that those working at the company get to learn a whole range of building skills. Often, Simon says, purchasing a Compac Home, is the start of a journey. “Some people buy a home and stay, for instance, on their parents or friends land. Other’s have their own land already, or eventually attain that, for their home to be shifted to.” On any given day, including contractors, there can be up to 50 people on site. Simon directly employs 35 staff. While Simon is engaged in life day to day at the factory Deb takes care of HR, Health & Safety and administration. “She does an amazing job, with a busy family. Together we’ve got complementary skills which have enabled us to build Compac Homes into what it is today.” 6216 Great South Rd, Horotiu, 3288 | T: 07 847 3443 E: drew@kiwitimber.co.nz | www.kiwitimber.co.nz 021 903 285 sales@steelrite.co.nz Specialists in Steel Frame Structures Proud to be associated with Compac Homes
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