Timaru and Twizel operations expanded

With building consents on the rise in South Canterbury, PlaceMakers Twizel and Timaru are expanding to meet local trade demand

Over the course of the 2017-18 financial year, the Timaru District Council issued 2,158 building consents, an increase of 37% from the previous year.

Joint Venture Manager for PlaceMakers Timaru and PlaceMakers Twizel, Brendan Leary, says he is delighted to have been able to expand both stores’ operations in response to such healthy building activity.

“Without question, there has been a building boom in Twizel and Timaru; there’s a lot happening here,” says Brendan. “It’s important we make changes to facilitate growth.”

Brendan says feedback at both stores has made the renovations even more rewarding.

Customers have responded positively to the extensions made to Twizel’s range of items and physical space. The Twizel store now has new racking, interiors and a storage shed, plus a larger trade yard.

Two team members have also been welcomed to ensure high service standards are maintained in the face of increased demand.

Timaru has also seen new store additions.

“Our Washdyke store just had its 2000­m² showroom renovated, and everyone including our customers and staff enjoyed the cutting of the ribbon,” says Brendan “We’re really proud with how it has turned out.”

Improved racking makes it easier for customers to navigate more than 7,500 products, including 1,000 new items. The store also features a new central checkout, as well as a modern bathroom and kitchen interior zone.

“Although we haven’t increased in size, the redesign is so effective people have the impression we’ve expanded” says Brendan.

“It’s been several years since our last expansion in Timaru, so we’ve wanted to make a change for a while. It’s a significant investment in the South Canterbury community, which we’re proud to be part of.”