Big day for new extensions

Press, 30 October 1981, Page 10

Big day for new extensions

Although the extensions to the original premises of the Young Brothers, Ltd, branch at 530 Wairakei Road have been open for a few days, this afternoon indicates a notable milestone for this company of automotive and electrical engineering.

The expansion will be opened" officially by the chairman of the Waimairi County Council (Mr B. Rich) at 3 p.m.. followed by some celebrations by people from the other Young Brothers branches, their many customers in the automotive field and by other people from the area. The Wairakei Road branch has been on its present site for more than five years and, because of the demand for bigger premises, Young Brothers has spent $6OOO on increasing the' facilities there.

The manager, Mr Gary Hutchison, remembers that when the Wairakei Road branch first opened, it “started from virtually nothing. with virtually no customers in the area."

“Since that time, the staff has doubled to eight, and-the turnover has easily risen about three times," Gary said.

“I want to stress that we are wholesalers and engineers — in that order — in the automotive electrical field.

“We also are the agents for the wide range of Bella lighting accessories; Bosch original quality, electrical equipment; the, full range of scooter, car and industrial batteries; and replacement equipment for virtually all makes and models of cars.

“General Motors has our biggest range of stock, covering an immense range — anything from spark plugs, thermostats, . petrol pumps, radiator caps, fan belts, alternators, starters and high-tension kits. “We have both breeds of Amalgamated and Chloride batteries available for supply or repair.

“A major part of our extension is in the old workshop; and the service depart-

ment has a big range of exchange units for most cars and heavy vehicles. Other services include instrument, speedo and clock repairs. “We supply parts and service for other garages and service stations; and also provide electrical services for most of the major companies in our area. "We have had to increase our parking area because of the increased volume of work.

“Working with the Waimairi County Council, we also have tried to break away from the factory look, surrounding the premises with greenery for a softer look."

Through his experience. Gary believes it is “the personal touch" that has helped the Young Brothers Wairakei Road branch to expand so successfully. “We give our customers a fair and honest job, and my staff and I are easily approachable — the whole staff works as a team." Gary said. A long-established firm.

Young Brothers started at Timaru in 1918 with automotive and electrical equipment. Now, the firm has its head office at the Tuam Street premises, with other branches at Timaru, Dunedin and Gore.