BUSINESS AND TRAINING |
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN |
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bodies and multi-temp bodies . This strategic move not only catered to the needs of their clients but also established Shivers as an industry leader in innovation and quality craftsmanship . " We manufacture about one truck body a week ," Weir says proudly , emphasising the company ' s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of their clientele .
Shivers Logistics boasts a fleet of 21 refrigerated trucks of sizes ranging from one to 18 tons available for daily or monthly rental . As a logical value-add , the company has ventured into repair and maintenance services , further solidifying its position as a comprehensive solution provider in the refrigeration domain . It is an authorised agent for Transfrig . It started with one maintenance vehicle and now has a fleet of five vehicles which are on standby 24 / 7 to service breakdowns in Limpopo .
Additional services that Shivers offers include supply , maintenance and repair of tail lifts . Polystyrene can be cut to size , with the largest size being 1 200mm x 6 000mm . These are also available in various densities . Shivers keeps stock of strip curtains that are made to size , as well as custom designed decal stickers that are made to order .
The industry faced uncertainties during the post-Covid period , which was a bad spell for the whole province . " For about six to eight months the region was absolutely dead ," he recalls , describing the financial strain caused by reduced spending and hesitancy among consumers . Shivers itself remained resilient , adapting to changes and emerging stronger , he says : " The Polokwane economy ( where Shivers gets 90 % of its business ) is not bad at the moment for us , and the business itself scarcely faltered during the general downturn .”
They do business in many neighbouring countries : Botswana , – where it had serviced one abattoir for 27 years – Zambia and Zimbabwe .
Navigating through the challenges posed by Covid-19 , Shivers remained operational , ensuring continuity in their services . " During Covid , we never stopped working ," he asserts , emphasising their commitment to serving clients even during trying times . Shivers ’ business was classified as Essential Services and this ensured that business could continue in the new normal .
He attributes the company ’ s longevity to prioritising its workforce , safeguarding their well-being and livelihoods .
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Shivers celebrates 30 years of excellence . |
" Fortunately , my staff had no short-term layoffs , or even downtime .”
Reflecting on skills development , Weir acknowledges the need for continuous training and upskilling . " As we ' ve grown , we ' ve got some excellent staff that work for us , highlighting the company ' s investment in nurturing talent across various fields . From manufacturing to repair and maintenance services , Shivers boasts a skilled workforce capable of meeting all client needs .
Furthermore , he attributes their success to strategic partnerships with key stakeholders : Transfrig , Thermo King and Carrier – with the case of Transfrig dating back to the ' 90s . " We sell and maintain their units ," he explains , showcasing the symbiotic relationship between Shivers and its partners .
SHIVERS ’ OPERATIONAL STRATEGIES AND VISION
Weir states emphatically that their business model , strategic approach , and long-term vision is focused on delivering exceptional service and staying ahead of industry trends , embodying a commitment to excellence and innovation .
The commercial transport refrigeration sector remains a cornerstone of Shivers ’ operations , with an average of eight trucks serviced daily . “ Our commercial refrigeration and body manufacturing are primary revenue drivers – the biggest two of the four .”
When it comes to strategy and guiding principles , Shivers prioritises customer satisfaction and operational efficiency . " We strive to offer a 24-hour service to all our clients , given the industry has today become a 24 / 7 industry , requiring a commitment to responsiveness and reliability . In a competitive industry landscape , Shivers sets itself apart through its unwavering dedication to service and responsiveness . Some refrigeration companies pack up and go home on Friday ," he remarks . In contrast , Shivers remains operational seven days a week , ensuring uninterrupted service and support to clients – particularly in sectors where refrigeration is critical . Furthermore , Shivers aims to maintain a clear line of communication with clients , ensuring prompt resolution of issues and challenges .”
While delivery timelines are set , challenges arise when servicing refrigerated trucks , especially for clients located far from the Shivers office . Sometimes , expectations are unreal , but Shivers , wherever possible , endeavors to meet client deadlines by deploying additional staff to expedite processes .
In terms of technology and innovation , Weir recognises the importance of staying abreast of industry advancements . " Our staff are regularly trained in advanced transport refrigeration knowledge , particularly in the technology of Transfrig as a key partner representing our commitment to continuous learning and skill development .”
Shivers does repair and maintenance of all brands of refrigeration .
To ensure they stay up to date with industry changes , Shivers relies on a combination of proactive research and reactive problem-solving . While continuous development training isn ' t formalised , Weir stresses the importance of knowledge sharing within the team . " If something
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does come up , and I had read about it or somebody told me , we ’ ll discuss how to resolve it ." This collaborative approach ensures that the team is prepared to handle new challenges as they arise .
He attributes their reputation for quality to a skilled workforce with on average over 10 years of experience , ensuring continuity and expertise in their operations .
Client relations play a crucial role in Shivers ' success , with a focus on delivering quality products and services that exceed expectations . " In the last two to three years , we ' ve really swayed many clients to buy our bodies , even though a bit more expensive as our bodies are of higher quality . This has earned us the trust and loyalty of our clients , reflected in repeat business and positive testimonials .” As Shivers commemorates its remarkable journey of 30 years in the refrigeration industry , Weir reflects on the company ' s evolution , achievements and vision for the future . He believes the company ' s future trajectory is positioned to thrive for years to come . With an unwavering commitment to excellence , Shivers is poised to embark on the next chapter of its journey , confident in its ability to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead over the coming decades . The actual celebrations of the 30th anniversary involve a bustling schedule , with several large client and supplier events with numerous guests . " It ’ s like trying to organise a wedding , with more than 100 people coming on Tuesday , and probably a similar amount on Thursday .”
Despite the busy schedule , Shivers remains committed to maintaining quality and professionalism . The owner acknowledges the challenges of juggling multiple tasks , from attending to clients to managing day-to-day operations . Additionally , a number of long-service awards will be handed out , recognising the dedication and commitment of Shivers ’ staff over the years .
Weir expresses gratitude for the continued support and partnership of clients and suppliers . Despite the challenges and uncertainties , Shivers remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence , innovation and customer satisfaction . “ The company looks forward to embracing the future with optimism and determination .”
For more information about Shivers and its services , visit their website : www . shivers . co . za . CLA
The company
looks forward to
embracing the future
with optimism and
determination .
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ONE CONSOLIDATED VOICE FOR THE REFRIGERATION INDUSTRY .
Congratulations Shivers on your 30 th anniversary
www . coldlinkafrica . co . za
Call : + 27 ( 0 ) 11 579 4940 sales @ interactmedia . co . za
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