Maria Slade investigated this story for The Herald on Sunday. The article quotes Jim Bibby, Jurgen Fitting, Jason Vlaar and Auckland University franchising expert Gehan Gunasekara.

German chainsaw manufacturer Stihl is using New Zealand as a test market for its concept of a nationwide chain of franchised power tool retailers, called STIHL SHOP™

The latest three store openings in Hawera, Masterton and Cambridge takes the group to a total of 56 stores nationwide (generating $80 million in annual revenues) – within reach of its goal of 65 stores by 2011.

Before 2002 the outdoor power equipment market was merely embryonic. This changed when STIHL decided to develop a retail chain of locally owned stores under its own brand; called STIHL SHOP™. The outcome for STIHL after years of groundwork is improved store branding and infrastructure, investment into human capital through training, a focus on customer service and top position in the now highly competitive retail category.

Click here to see the print story republished online at www.nzherald.co.nz

The Switch Business principals have been busy at it again, this weekend featured in the Herald on Sunday; Buyers Face A Lengthy Wait by Maria Slade they discuss the growing number of waiting business buyers.

The Switch Business Men; Paul Devcich and David Newport

Co-owner Paul Devcich says they have people “biting their arms off” trying to get information on new businesses placed on the market. 

There is a demand from genuine buyers right now, but owners may have been advised to sit tight until profits returned to levels of previous years and consider selling later.  

However, might be a different situation in few years if all businesses owners held on there would eventually be a glut.  “If someone if looking in this market now, they can do the transaction” says Switch co-owner David Newport.