It’s a new era for the team at Totalspan Coromandel
New owners Kyle Sheppard and Nicola Olesen took on the franchise in February this year and since then, the couple have been busy building up their connections with the community. And while they offer the same quality, steel framed building solutions as other Totalspan franchises nationwide, they’re keen to bring a more local feel back to their store.
“We’ve got strong family values, and we know how to treat people right,” Kyle said.
Hauraki and the Coromandel have always been home for the pair – Nicola grew up on a farm in the tight-knit community of Ngatea, while Kyle is a fifth-generation Thames-ite. And with plenty of family still in the area, as well as a sports-mad son, they plan to remain a part of the community for some time to come.
“I’ve grown up with a family that’s always been involved in the community and have recently completed 17 years in the Thames fire brigade myself,” Kyle said.
The couple are also both firm believers in family activities and organised sports, and are proud to be able to support some local clubs and teams in their endeavours.
“We both benefited from people and businesses supporting clubs when we were young and are happy to do our bit now” the couple agreed.
Kyle and Nicola’s local, family-centric philosophy has followed them into the workplace as well.
“The business wasn’t owned locally for a long time – but now we’re all from here,” Kyle said.
“We’ve been fortunate enough to retain the existing quality people, and we are working hard towards building a fantastic team for the future.”
Alongside Nicola and Kyle, the team also includes Charles Kempster, sales consultant, and Amanda Richards in sales support/project administration, as well as three builders and other contractors.
With over 25 years’ experience in the building industry between Charles and Kyle, they really know their stuff.
“We’re now consistently getting good feedback, which was one of our main aims after taking over,” Kyle said.
“Now, our goal is to be the preferred solution for steel frame buildings in the residential and commercial market for the Coromandel and Hauraki Plains.”
Kyle and Nicola are happy to welcome the community into their site at unit 1, 46 Main Road Kopu, Thames for a chat.
“We value our amazing community and aim to bring a local focus to our business. We believe in the Totalspan brand and look forward to discussing your building needs with you and bringing your dream to life,” they said.
By ALICE PARMINTER, Public Interest Journalism funded by NZ on Air
