PlaceMakers strengthens industry connections at NZCB Conference

PlaceMakers was proud to support the 2026 New Zealand Certified Builders Conference, connecting with customers, apprentices, suppliers and industry professionals from across the country while showcasing tools and programmes designed to make building easier

PlaceMakers staff from Support Office and Auckland sales teams spent two days connecting with builders, apprentices, suppliers, and industry partners from around New Zealand, strengthening relationships and gaining valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.

For PlaceMakers, the conference was an excellent opportunity to showcase products and services and have important conversations with builders.

“Events like the NZCB Conference give us the chance to have meaningful conversations with the people we work alongside every day,” says Chantelle Wilson, Sponsorship and Events Lead at PlaceMakers.

“We were able to hear firsthand how our customers are navigating the current market, what challenges they’re facing, and where we can continue to add value. Those conversations are incredibly important as we continue to focus on making building easier for New Zealand tradies.”

Support available

Throughout the conference, the PlaceMakers stand attracted a steady stream of visitors keen to connect with the team and learn more about the support available through the business.

A major talking point was the range of digital tools available to help customers save time and work more efficiently. To demonstrate these tools in action, PlaceMakers hosted its “Scan the Fastest” competition, using the barcode scanning feature within the PlaceMakers Trade App.

Attendees were invited to test their speed and accuracy, competing to achieve the fastest scan time of the event. The overall winner took home a $500 PlaceMakers Gift Card, while all participants went into the draw to win a $250 PlaceMakers Gift Card. There was also a range of PlaceMakers merchandise up for grabs, also contributed to the lively atmosphere across both days.

“The competition was a great way to showcase one of the practical features available through the Trade App while also creating some friendly rivalry,” says Chantelle.

“It gave us an opportunity to talk with customers about the digital tools available to them and how these can help streamline day-to-day tasks on site and in the office.”

At every stage of a builder’s journey

The conference also provided an ideal platform to engage with apprentices and introduce them to the PlaceMakers Apprentice Crew (PAC), PlaceMakers free programme designed to support apprentices throughout their training journey.

PAC offers access to exclusive benefits, discounts, resources, tools and opportunities aimed at helping apprentices build successful careers in the trades.

“We were excited to meet so many apprentices and talk to them about the support available through PAC,” added Chantelle.

“There was strong interest from apprentices wanting to learn more about the programme and how it can help them both on and off the tools. Supporting the next generation of tradies is something we’re passionate about.”

Plotting a course forward

While the activities and programmes generated plenty of interest, PlaceMakers says one of the biggest successes of the event was the quality of conversations held throughout the conference.

The feedback and insights gathered from customers, suppliers, and industry professionals will help inform how PlaceMakers continues to evolve its products, services, and support in the future.

“As a business, we’re always looking for ways to improve the experience for our customers,” adds Chantelle.

“The NZCB Conference gave us valuable opportunities to listen, learn, and strengthen relationships. We look forward to building on those conversations and continuing to support New Zealand’s building industry.”