| 63 T T Russell Fredric Appliance repairs the business mainstay The company now carries out a range of domestic electrical work alongside appliance repairs, and has diversified into areas such as ventilation installations. Appliance Repairs Invercargill “We go with the industry and where it takes us and keep up with the education and training.” CONTRACTING Ten years ago, Sam and Sheree Hall took a leap of faith when they decided to start their own company instead of taking over Sam’s parents’ whiteware repair business. Sam and Sheree first operated Appliance Repairs Invercargill out of a shipping container behind another business, with the couple building the company from the ground up while raising a young family. Sam had a formal qualification in appliance servicing, the area he focused on in the early years while also completing his full electrical apprenticeship as an adult, allowing the business to expand into domestic electrical work as it grew. A major step forward came about seven years ago when the couple purchased their North Road premises, giving the business a permanent base and room to expand operations. “There weren’t a lot of appliance service people specifically at the time, so that became our core direction for quite a few years,” Sheree says. While appliance servicing formed the foundation of the business in the early years, like with many trades, the work has evolved alongside changes in technology and industry regulations. The company now carries out a range of domestic electrical work alongside appliance repairs, and has diversified into areas such as ventilation installations during the Healthy Homes changes. More recently, the team has begun training in solar installation as that industry continues to evolve. “We go with the industry and where it takes us and keep up with the education and training,” says Sheree. The business employs one staff member, a qualified appliance serviceperson and electrician. Despite the growth and diversification, appliance repairs remain a major part of the day-to-day work. Washing machines are among the most common call-outs, while ovens and dryers are also frequent repair jobs, particularly during winter when dryers become essential for many households. Modern appliances have become more complex during recent years, with electronic components, front loader washing machines and heat pump dryers now common. This has changed the nature of repair work compared with a decade ago, and requires ongoing training and supplier support. A big part of the job is helping customers decide whether to repair or replace an appliance. The team assesses the appliance, sources parts, and provides a quote, along with honest advice so customers can make an informed decision about whether a repair is worthwhile. “If we can get the parts, we’ll quote it and let the customer decide, and we’ll always be honest if it’s not economical,” says Sheree. Strong relationships with suppliers are also an important part of the business, helping ensure parts can be sourced at a fair price, and technical support is available when needed. Being a locally owned and operated business is something many customers value, particularly in a smaller region where people prefer dealing with someone face-to-face rather than a call centre. “I think we just like being able to serve our community in a practical way and build those relationships with customers over the years,” says Sheree. “We have people we might not hear from for five years, but when something goes wrong they come back, and it’s always humbling to know we’ve got that trust in the community.” We are proud to support Appliance Repairs Invercargill CameronMurphy, Partner Invercargill | 03 211 1370 Proud to be associated with Appliance Repairs Invercargill www.telfer.co.nz 03 218 4484 | info@jacksonsmith.co.nz | jacksonsmith.co.nz We specialise in accounting for businesses - contact us to find out how the team can assist with your business.
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