Autobarn Member Update
| by Tristan Wiggill
Fruitful
partnership
Tzaneen’s JB Spares/Onderdele is a
business of some repute, having ably
provided the people of Limpopo with
quality spares for over 30 years in a
region of the country best known for
its tropical fruit.
➲ Locals and out of towner’s recognise the Autobarn name
O
wner Hannes van der Merwe says
the spares shop opened on 7 July
1983. The recent celebration of the
businesses 30th birthday is still fresh in his
mind, as is the day the company became
Autobarn members, right at the outset of
the Australian buying group’s South African
introduction.
Hannes says that people visiting from other
cities and towns recognise the Autobarn
name and branding. “It takes a while to
build a brand and a solid reputation,” he
points out. A good reputation certainly
helps in a highly competitive environment
such as his, with large and small spares
outlets alike, all within ear shot.
Over the years the company has become
something of a one-stop shop in the
province. “We sell everything and anything
here,” Hannes says.
His company employs nine people who
operate from the 400 square metre floor.
The business provides fast deliveries
with a bakkie and two
youngsters on bicycles.
In Hannes’ opinion,
it is important in the
spares industry to be
enthusiastic, to buy the
correct stock, to follow up
on your promises, work
for others, remain friendly
and know your customers.
The local economy provides him with
some low-hanging fruit, so to speak.
“The minibus taxi market is very
competitive, so our main focus is on
the farmers and the farming community.
They use trucks all the time and this
means a constant flow of business for
us. That said, we also serve a lot of cash
customers too.”
While the business operates during normal
office hours, Hannes is always prepared
to assist his customers in the case of
emergencies and makes available his
cell phone number for this very purpose.
It is this type of customer service that sets
his business apart from the competition,
combined with his enthusiasm and
involvement in community activities
such as bike rides and 4x4 events.
“It’s important to get out there, to be
visible and to be involved,” he says.
What are the biggest considerations for
Hannes has also known
his customers - price, quality, service,
Terry Brand and Danie
back up and support, warranties or
Harmse - the driving force
something else? “None is more important
behind the Autobarn
than the others,” he says.
concept in SA - for many
years and read about the
“JB Spares is a landmark, not only in
➲ Schalk (left) and Pieter (right) are part of a formidable team that Autobarn concept in this
Tzaneen, but throughout the Letaba
has established a reputation for excellent service and quality brands
very magazine. “Terry and
valley and we are proud to have them as
supplied at very competitive prices
Danie are friendly and
Autobarn members. They make a valuable
His most popular items include Dixon
approachable. We talk about things that are
contribution to the Autobarn Group which
batteries and GUD filters, while various
outside of work.
is now up to 86 stores,” says Terry Brand.
tools, oils and engine parts are in high
With Autobarn, we know the people
demand as well. “In this industry you can’t
All things considered, it looks
involved personally, and they sort out our
be on your own. Our customers know that
like the JB Spares/Autobarn
problems quickly. We can speak openly
there is greater support and better back-up
and honestly with them and they are
relationship will continue to bear
through belonging to the Autobarn group.”
knowledgeable, too. They are actually a
fruit for many years to come.
JB Spares also lists Autobarn’s ability to
part of our business,” he says.
keenly price deals and give pre-loaded
prices and discounts, as motivating factors
behind their membership.
For more information on Autobarn, contact Terry Brand on 011 477 3612.
| words in action
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september 2014