WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

For Taupō-based Jason and Kushla Caldwell, investing in a Lidar Windows and Doors franchise earlier this year has been the perfect answer to the challenges of a competitive building industry. They now combine the reach and resources of a national network with the hands-on local expertise of a dedicated specialist team. 

With a 40-year track record in aluminium and glass, including running their own small factory, the couple can now finally see a much less stressful future, thanks to their new Lidar Windows and Doors franchise.

Life has immediately become much easier with no staff to employ and no factory of their own to manage and maintain. And now the Lidar brand is right there backing them up to ensure delivery is always on time and on spec. “This is manufacturing and delivery at scale,” explains Jason, “with every challenge much more easily overcome with help and advice from the franchisor.”

“The business model has also allowed for major cuts in our overheads,” adds Jason. “Meaning even with the recent economic downturn, we’ve been able to continue operating as normal.”

A fast-growing brand

Darrell Gane, general manager of Lidar Windows and Doors, says the business, which originated from the well-known Vistalite brand, is growing quickly. This is all thanks to proven systems, advanced computer-controlled manufacturing technology based in Auckland and Christchurch, and full training, tools and operational support from a team that really understands the building industry.

“Company director, David Su and I have been in this industry for 25 years, so we know a thing or two about how these businesses should be run successfully. Lidar provides training materials that cover marketing, sales, installation and technical aspects of the business, so new franchisees have good processes to follow. Lidar’s hands-on training also allows a new franchisee to pair up and shadow a salesperson or installer to learn how everything works.”

Darrell explains that Lidar’s ideal franchise candidate is a go-getter with industry sales or installation experience looking to run their own business without tying money up in assets, or an experienced business person looking to enter an established and growing industry. The franchise investment level of around $100,000 covers the training, software, tools, vehicle, and working capital needed to get started in a Lidar Windows and Doors business. Access to additional cash flow could also be required at start up.

“We want our franchisees focused on finding and servicing clients, spending more time measuring up jobs, relaxed in the knowledge that the Lidar team will always be right there behind you.”

Excellent pedigree

The Lidar brand operates at the forefront of window and door fabrication in New Zealand and was FMI Building Innovation’s first XLab partner.

XLab’s state-of-the-art computer-controlled cutting and machining delivers an accuracy and consistency that traditional fabrication simply can’t match. Darrell says this ensures every Lidar product meets the exact required specifications, without any compromise, “The product is second to none, and we have opportunities available right across the country.”

More peace of mind

Not surprisingly, Jason and Kushla are enjoying the stress-free life that their franchise provides. On-time delivery remains one of the greatest benefits of their new business arrangement and one of the main factors that led to them making the decision to become franchisees.

“If you can imagine a small factory with four people working on the floor and one person away for whatever reason. That meant the factory was often running 25% below full output,” explains Jason, “which was incredibly frustrating.

“Now that we have access to the Lidar manufacturing facility, even if one day they had ten people away sick, let’s just say they would hardly notice,” he laughs. “We absolutely recommend Lidar Windows and Doors – give Darrell a call to find out more.”  

See this advertorial on page 12 of Franchise New Zealand magazine Year 35 Issue 03

For more information and advice on buying a franchise get your FREE copy of Franchise New Zealand magazine.