78 | JOINERY Chatswood Kitchens & Design Plans for growth as legacy continues T T Rosa Watson Kapiti Coast-based Chatswood Kitchens is moving into a different era with the next generation taking the business forward. Founder Gareth Williams, a builder by trade, started out in cabinet making in 1982, before going on to create Chatswood Kitchens. He is now passing on the reins to son Justin and daughter-in-law Lucy, who plan to carry on his legacy while modernising the company. Gareth founded the company based on his personal values of creating beautiful things that bring joy, and providing quality work at affordable prices. He started out in his Johnsonville garage before opening his factory and showroom in Kapiti in 1988, in which he has operated ever since. In the early days, the company catered mainly to architects and builders, but the move to the new premises and the showroom gave Gareth the ability to bring customers into the process. This was a key move to entering the retail and renovation market. The business has grown over the years, focusing on the renovation and new-build market, finding its niche in the mid-range and top-end kitchen renovation space. And as it evolved, it moved into cabinetry construction, such as wardrobes, vanities and shelving. Today, Chatswood Kitchens combines CNC (computer numerical control) machinery and bespoke craftsmanship to produce tailor-made dream kitchens. This allows the company to keep prices competitive without compromising on what the customer wants. The current team are long-serving employees. Brian, a joiner, has worked for Chatswood on and off for over 20 years, and Chris, another joiner, has been with the company for the last 10 years. Designer Vicki has also been on the team for 10 years. Justin has been around kitchens his whole life, from sweeping the floors of the factory as a kid to managing the company, and to now owning it. Before joining the family business, he worked as a chef for 12 years, giving him good experience working in high-pressure environments, gaining organisational skills, and developing procedures. He has translated that into his work at Chatswood, starting with running the machinery, creating organisation in the factory and becoming production manager, to now detailing on the Pro100 design system and selling to customers. Lucy is the newest to the company and has worked alongside Jill, learning the ropes. “It really is a family business as we support each other to make sure we succeed,” Lucy says. Gareth created a legacy of a trusted name, and a customer-focused service, with most referrals coming through word of mouth. “This is something we want to improve on with a new website full of information about what we provide, but also about who we are, and entices people to contact us,” Lucy says. “I have started the social media for the company fairly recently and plan to grow this to widen our client base.” There are plans to further streamline processes, especially in the IT and design department, to enhance the customer experience and create more time-effective processes. Lucy says Chatswood Kitchen’s excellent customer care combined with automated processes that reduce the price without compromising quality is what sets it apart from the others. It uniquely positions Chatswood in the market, she says. Renovations require a very high level of customer care, time, and top-level advice and support throughout the process, and Chatswood achieves this through efficient, CNCbased manufacturing for standard units in the kitchen, and outstanding craftmanship and customer care that includes scheduling other trades such as plumbers and electricians. “We, as a business, want to find that balance between function and fashion as we make kitchens that last and can be enjoyed for years to come,” Lucy says. Lucy says Chatswood Kitchen’s excellent customer care combined with automated processes that reduce the price without compromising quality is what sets it apart. Chatswood Kitchens combines CNC machinery and bespoke craftsmanship to produce tailor-made dream kitchens. Want trusted insurance advice for your business? Leave it toMatthew. Matthew Keane 021659709 matthew.keane@rothbury.co.nz Specialising in Conveyancing & Property, Dispute resolution, Estate planning, Relationship & Employment disputes & Litigation & Trusts. Your Lawyers in Wellington For friendly advice contact us today on: (04) 472 4286 | langfordlaw.co.nz
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