Quality product meets quality service
Bad customer service is often considered a deterrent to business growth in Namibia, but in the case of Herero Mall-based Kahorere Trailers, it in fact served as inspiration for a new enterprise.
“I went to rent a trailer from a guy in town, and really he gave me an attitude and a half,†recalled Eliphas Kahorere, sole owner of the trailer rental company which he has been running since 2008.
“That is when I decided to create my own company for those in my community, and somewhere they would not need to be subjected to the same rude and offensive service I had to endure,†he told Namibian Sun.
While the use of trailers is common in Namibia, especially among farmers transporting livestock and construction companies, Kahorere says the cost of investing in one for permanent use is often not necessary.
His company currently has a fleet of 40 trailers for rent, which he says is still way below local demand, with all 40 regularly booked out.
“It’s quite a unique company, I’ve not seen it done, at least at the same scale as we do,†he said.
“We really emphasise the human element. We are available 24 hours a day, our rates are competitive, and we typically relax certain conditions on a case by case basis.†.
The trailers, which the company builds itself, range from those meant to store luggage to those with open tops and rails to transport livestock, and flat decks to carry cars. The standard charge is between N$230 and N$250 for 24 hours.
“Right now, our market is everywhere. We started off small, just serving the surrounding neighbourhood, but now we have guys coming from as far as town to support our business.
“The strategy really is to combine the best trailers with the best customer service,†he said.
The company remains on stand-by in case one of its trailers breaks down.
“Our aim over the next two years is to become the leading, one-stop trailer centre in Namibia. That means sales, repairs, rentals, parts, everything,†he said.
Kahorere has targeted Gobabis and Otjiwarongo for the first phase in the company’s expansion plans.
“There is room for more players. People have come from as far as Walvis Bay, so we know it’s a service that is in demand. I mean, you’ll find that after all our trailers are out, people are still in need.â€
The company is also proud of its growing staff, which Kahorere says now stands at nine, including four women.
WINDHOEK DENVER ISAACS
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