56 | Engineered to withstand the elements Lifestyle block shed. Completed growers shed. Russell Fredric The ability to offer independent and unbiased solutions for farm and commercial sheds has proven a winning business model for Kaiwaka-based business Need A Shed. The Northland company is run by Andre Nicolai who has 30 years experience in the construction and timber industries. Before starting Need A Shed he was mostly involved in residential construction but, needing a change, decided to reinvent the business and eight years ago and change to building sheds only. This business model is based on having the ability to train staff more quickly to build the sheds than is possible with residential construction. “It’s a whole scenario easier than building houses. My idea was to train two teams to build the sheds so I could step aside a bit which is pretty much where I am now. It was still building, but it was actually quite a big change.” The business employs five builders plus Andre and an office administrator. Need A Shed is purely a construction company which builds sheds supplied exclusively by Gisborne company Sheds 4 U and Alpine Sheds which between them offer a comprehensive range of sheds and shelters suitable for a wide range of uses, including commercial steel buildings and pole farm sheds. Andre strongly believes that these brands are superior in their quality and strength, especially compared to others that incorporate roll formed beams and structural elements. Adverse weather events such as Cyclone Gabrielle are examples of the need for sheds to be over-engineered to withstand extreme elements as well as for longevity, Andre says. “I want to build something and walk away and never to have to think about it again; we’ve never had to go back to a job for anything.” When Andre takes an initial enquiry, he does a site visit to assess not only what the client wants but can recommend the best option across the two brands rather than being tied to one option. As well as being able to recommend a specific option, Andre can provide other guidance to ensure the best overall outcome in relation to the configuration and total cost which can be influRURAL SERVICES » Need a Shed Ltd enced by several factors. It is not uncommon for what initially appears to be a cheaper option to be work out similar or more expensive once all factors such as site and environmental considerations, a concrete floor, labour and mileage and other factors are accounted for. “The difference is that I’m not trying to sell somebody a particular shed. I’m trying to make sure everyone gets what is best for where they are. Even if a shed is a little bit more expensive but you know it’s going to be a lot better, you’ll forget the extra you paid once you’ve got a decent product.” While Andre has these preferences, he is also 0800 FIRTH 1 0800 CONCRETE FIRTH.CO.NZ TRUSTED NAME IN CONCRETE THE happy to a build almost any kitset shed supplied by a client. The arrangement Andre has with the two companies is definitely a win-win and provides them with the surety of the quality of workmanship and Need A Shed with a steady workflow. “[Last year] was the busiest year we’ve had; halfway through the year we decided to hire two more workers and this year is the same. We’ve already got most of the year booked out.”
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