#SAFranchiseFriday featuring Timbercity

BACKGROUND
With over 40 years of experience in providing superior products, outstanding service and successful brand marketing, Timbercity is one of southern Africa’s most recognised and trusted brands.

Initially established by two independent entrepreneurs, the brand was later acquired by PG Wood and two years later the first Timbercity franchise store was launched. Today, Timbercity is a subsidiary of SteinBuild, the southern African building materials division of Steinhoff International Holdings N.V. Access to SteinBuild’s supply chain has aided the growth of the group not only in South Africa but also in Zambia, Botswana and Namibia.

THE CONCEPT
Timbercity’s business model facilitates the franchising of new outlets as well as the conversion and rebranding of existing businesses. To accommodate the building, kitchen, trade and DIY sectors, its retail space has been enhanced to deliver a superior customer shopping experience.

Through their skilled and knowledgeable staff and partnerships with quality suppliers, they are able to provide customers with expert DIY project advice.

Timbercity outlets stock a wide range of products from top-quality timber, boards and shelving to kitchen hardware and accessories, worktops, joinery, mouldings, and building materials. All outlets house fully-equipped cut shops that offer specialised services such as cutting, edging and drilling. Selected branches also boast a design centre where custom designs can be created to suit the customer’s unique style.

Timbercity primarily services the building, kitchen, trade and DIY sectors.

A proposed outlet must be able to accommodate a retail store of at least 800sqm and provide yard space of between 500 and 1,000sqm.

FRANCHISOR SUPPORT
Prior to a store opening, comprehensive on-site training is provided so that franchisees are fully-equipped to operate under the brand. Additional training is facilitated through the operations manual, supplier training and biannual workshops hosted by the franchisor.

Timbercity franchisees benefit from the excellent product offering procured by the franchisor and supported by a strong national procurement structure with brand and product marketing.

FRANCHISEE PROFILE
Successful applicants will have a hands-on approach to managing their business and possess strong managerial skills. Franchisees should be dedicated to customer service excellence and possess a fair understanding of retail in their prospective marketplaces.

SNAPSHOT
HISTORY
Founder: PG Wood
Year founded: 1974
Area of origin: Parow, Western Cape
CEO: Eugene Beneke

NETWORK
1st SA franchise opened: 1979
Number of SA outlets: 37

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
Management fee: R15 000 pm
Marketing fee: Included in msf
Agreement term: 5 Years
Renewal term: 5 Years

FINANCIALS
* Amounts quoted are VAT exclusive
Establishment cost: R1,5 million to R3 million
Franchise joining fee: R100 000
Working capital required: Available on request
TOTAL average set-up cost: From R1,6 million
Average monthly turnover: R750 000 to R3 million
Achievable gross margins: Available on request

WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Contact Andre de Jager on +27 21 927 5000 or emial franchise@steinbuild.com
www.timbercity.co.za