PlaceMakers supports NZ-Chinese builders

PlaceMakers branches from all across Auckland came together at the New Zealand Chinese Building Industry Association (NZCBIA) expo to highlight their services to an emerging population of Chinese builders and developers

The NZCBIA has previously estimated that 30% of properties being built in Auckland are linked to the NZ-Chinese community.

PlaceMakers, along with eight other Fletcher Building units, attended the expo to strengthen its connections with the community and highlight how they could add value to builders in this segment.

Auckland Regional Manager Shane Watkin says it was a great success.

“The expo presented us with a unique opportunity to clearly communicate our service values and show our commitment to delivering the best service in the market,” says Shane.

With Mandarin-speaking account managers and trade support staff in most Auckland branches already, he says PlaceMakers is now looking at other ways to better cater for the NZ-Chinese market.

With the NZ-Chinese community continuing to play a more significant role in Auckland’s building industry, Shane says strengthening this relationship could also help improve relationships with other local builders through events such as trade breakfasts and toolbox talks.

“This sort of thing is already happening a lot, and I think it can be only positive for everyone involved if we continue to embrace and build on it.”

Best in show

Shane says another highlight of the evening was when the PlaceMakers Zone was named as the best site at the conference’s gala dinner.

This was achieved with the support of our suppliers, including other FB business units, coming together to create a store-like atmosphere where we wrapped the “PlaceMakers Zone” in builders wrap to showcase many product offerings and make available technical advice from mandarin speaking exhibitors.

Suppliers in the zone included Mico, Rinnai, Hansgrohe, Aquatica, PSP, Athena, Ecko, Stanley, Pink Batts, GIB, Makita, Firth, Newline, NZ Wood, CHH Wood products, Claymark, Thermakraft, Paslode, Fletcher Steel, Laminex and Sika.

The PlaceMakers team celebrates winning the ‘Best Site’ award at the NZ Chinese Builders Industry Association expo