Peter Bassett - Laser Group

Peter Bassett (centre) punches the air with delight as Laser Group wins its first Supreme Franchise System of the Year Award in 2005 - an award it was to win again in 2006. Peter is flanked by Laser co-founder David Clemmett and Minister for Small Business Lianne Dalziell

30 August 2010 - It is with huge regret that we report the death on Saturday of Peter Bassett, who co-founded the Laser Electrical and Laser Plumbing franchise with his friend and colleague David Clemmett. Peter tragically died in an accident in the Far North.

Peter and David started their business as young electricians in 1983. Over the years, they grew it into an award-winning franchise system which was named Westpac Supreme Franchise System of the Year in 2005 and 2006. In 2004, Laser Electrical launched into Australia and in 2006 the business model was expanded to the plumbing industry with the launch of Laser Plumbing. Today there are over 180 member companies of the Laser Group throughout Australasia employing over 1500 staff.

Peter once described himself as ‘just a West Auckland sparkie’, but no-one who met him could fail to be aware of his passion both for business and people. His enthusiasm was infectious and time spent with him was never dull and never wasted. He had a clarity of vision and desire for continuous improvement that enabled Laser to become the leading electrical and plumbing contracting network across Australia and New Zealand. We at Franchise New Zealand liked and admired him very much and we have no doubt that, although he will be sorely missed, the structures and people that Peter put in place at Laser will enable that company to continue as one of the leading lights of New Zealand business.

We send our condolences to his wife Tania and their sons Kurt, Blake, Freddie, Charlie and daughter Scarlett; to his colleagues at Laser Group; and to everyone he inspired in the franchise community. Peter Bassett will be sorely missed.

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