10 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT South Canterbury Business Awards: Plumb FX Plum reward for Waimate business Plumb FX of Waimate, had only just turned a year old when it was recognised for its entrepreneurial spirit and solid foundations by taking out the Emerging Business Award at the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce 2024 Business and Community Excellence Awards. T T Kelly Deeks New to South Canterbury’s business community, Plumb FX of Waimate, had only just turned a year old when it was recognised for its entrepreneurial spirit and solid foundations by taking out the Emerging Business Award at the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce 2024 Business and Community Excellence Awards. Plumb FX owners Aaron Dodds and Lara Welsh are thrilled with their win, and are determined to continue running their new business with the same customer and community-focused approach that has helped spur its initial growth. Aaron is a Master Plumber and Master Drainlayer of some 17 years’ experience, and Lara is his right-hand woman. They provide a quality service their customers can be confident in and that they are proud to stand behind. Aaron has worked all over Otago and South Canterbury on a diverse range of plumbing systems for many different types of client, which stood him in great stead to go out on his own and start Plumb FX with Lara. The couple saw value in the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Business and Community Excellence Awards, entering as an opportunity to look at their business under a microscope. “The high-calibre judges included the South Canterbury Chamber’s president Gordon Handy, Auckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Simon Bridges, and several others whose feedback was going to be invaluable to us going forward,” Lara says. “We’ve also made some valuable business connections from the awards and taking out the Emerging Business category has given our business an extra level of credibility, which is hugely beneficial for a business that’s only just past its first year of operation.” This credibility is especially important at this stage of Plumb FX’s growth. As the business has become more established, its projects are getting bigger and demand is more widespread. Aaron and Lara have recently employed another team member to service Timaru and the surrounding areas. “Winning the Emerging Business award shows our prospective new team members that we’ve got a solid business model, and we’re a business that does things the right way.” Plumb FX is big on community support. Firm believers in giving back, Aaron and Lara support a number of community events, groups and projects through sponsorship and other resources. “We are community-minded people, and we’re also business people, so we want to make the most of both,” Lara says. “Supporting our community means we get to be involved in various initiatives that really make a difference to local people, all while getting exposure and marketing opportunities for our own business.” In support of local kids and the future of the industry, Plumb FX is part of Waimate High School’s Gateway programme, giving students opportunities and insights into a career in plumbing, as well as scouting for an apprentice for 2025. “Supporting our community means we get to be involved in various initiatives that really make a difference to local people, all while getting exposure and marketing opportunities for our own business.” 027 747 7263 info@24-7construction.nz www.24-7construction.nz We are proud to support Plumb FX BUILDING CONSTRUCTION SERVICES NEW SPECIALISED HOMES ALTERATIONS & RENOVATIONS KITCHENS & BATHROOMS EXCAVATION & EARTHWORKS EMERGENCY REPAIRS Dali 029 0450 0319 admin@eesltd.co.nz 24hr On call Servicing South Canterbury, North Otago, Mackenzie Districts For all your electrical needs & services. Proudly supporting Plumb FX
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=