Directors are ‘mainlanders’

Press, 13 July 1988, Page 45

Directors are ‘mainlanders’

The successful Christchurch company, Photocopier Specialists, S.I. Ltd, was established about five years ago by John O’Brien and Kevin O’Quinn.

Both directors have an extensive background working with office equipment and computers. Kevin came to New Zealand from England about 22 years ago. John, who originally came from Rotorua, spent five years in London working with office and related equipment. The two men met in Rotorua when they were working for the same group, but from different North Island centres. When they were offered an exclusive agency for a popular

brand of photocopier they decided to establish their own business. But they did something a little unusual. Instead of staying in the North Island with its larger population, they came to Christchurch where they had family associations. “I have been all around the world,” John says. “From my own experience I think there are only two places to settle permanently; Perth in Western Australia, and Christchurch in New Zealand. “We feel that our business is promoting South Island interests.” ' Kevin says that Christchurch is ideal, being a city, but having the advantages of a small town.

“It is easy to become friends with our customers,” he says. “Customers appreciate a stable business. They like to be able to come in and meet the same people.

“There is no doubt that we have to work harder having our business in the South Island, but we feel that it is more satisfying.” At present Photocopier Specialists operates in two centres, Christchurch and Dunedin. The Dunedin office was opened last November. Both directors say that if the firm expands to the North Island the head office will remain in Christchurch. “We do not have to go to anyone up north for a decision,” Kevin and

John say. “A lot of businesses went north in recent years, but some of them are now returning to the South Island,” John says. John was converted to a “mainlander” when he returned from London and joined a major New Zealand office equipment company and became regional manager for the Christchurch operation. Kevin became a “mainlander” soon after arriving from England. He went to Dunedin and after working in various New Zealand centres was appointed to a manager’s position in Christchurch. Both directors are enjoying putting all their experience into running a successful business for themselves.