NEWS
5
In memory of
Davern Simadari
The plumbing industry suffered a huge loss with the
unexpected passing of Davern Simadari on 6 June 2018.
Davern Simadari began his illustrious career as an
outstanding sales rep for an agency representing
plumbing and hardware companies that sold stock to
retailers from all over — from Transkei to the coast.
In 2004, he joined the On Tap team in Hillcrest as a
salesman, stock purchaser, and IT whizz. His warm and
sociable personality helped him form relationships with both
plumbers and suppliers, and boosted sales considerably.
In 2013, Simadari branched off on his own and, together
with his brother, opened On Tap Greenstone. With lots of
hard work and long hours, the store became profitable,
which prompted the opening of On Tap Woodmead 14
months later.
As an ideas man, he would often think up ingenious
ways to improve On Tap and was responsible for setting
up the On Tap IT system for easier use.
With his uncanny ability to close a sale and build
instant relationships with customers, suppliers, and
co-workers alike, Simadari became a considerable
asset to On Tap and was well known among most of
the staff (especially in wearing his infamous On
Tap jacket!).
His approachable and outgoing personality, combined
with his passion for and dedication to the On Tap
brand, was unmatched and he will be dearly missed by
everyone at On Tap. PA
The late Davern Simadari
(28/01/1980 – 06/06/2018).
Founder and CEO retires
The founder and CEO of Apex Valves South Africa,
Burt du Rand, has announced his retirement.
“It is with mixed emotions that I announce the
retirement,” says Nicolette du Rand, operations
manager at Apex Valves.
More than 20 years ago, Burt du Rand started his new
career as an entrepreneur and Apex Valves was born.
His successes are dreams come true for most, but it was
not without a vision, determination, and commitment.
“Du Rand’s retirement is our loss and he will be sorely
missed, but we wish him all the best with the new
chapter in his life,” concludes Nicolette du Rand. PA
www.plumbingafrica.co.za
“Apex — and myself perhaps more than anyone else
— benefited tremendously from his leadership and
guidance and for that, words could never be enough
to express our gratitude. It has been an honour and a
privilege to learn from and work alongside the best and
we will continue to build on his legacy.
Burt du Rand.
September 2018 Volume 24 I Number 7