Providing essential tools and equipment solutions for 30 years, long-serving franchisee Tim Tredrea shares his experience in the Australian automotive industry.
Starting out as a mechanic, working in engine reconditioning at the early age of 15, Tim Tredrea has always had a knack for tools. He first heard of Snapon from a friend who had seen how the franchise worked in Canada, and it didn’t take long before the then 21 year old, was visiting Snap-on’s HQ, at the time in Brisbane to get started.
He decided to set up the franchise in Tamworth NSW, and 30 years later he’s still there and very much a cherished member of the community.
It wasn’t an easy start though as in the early ‘90s, the economic conditions weren’t favourable. “A business starting up then wouldn’t have been a great idea,” reflects Tim. But if there’s anything to learn from his experience, the business model has stood the test of time and economic upheavals. “Every year I never look back, I’ve had steady growth nearly every year that I’ve been in business.”
When asked about what makes Snap-on different to other franchises, Tim shares two main points: the level of service and the product. “Regular calling makes a big difference. Franchisees get support from the Snap-on group, and this attention to service extends to the customer.”
“It’s about service and customer relationship, but it’s no walk in the park.” Turning up consistently and reliably for customers creates a win-win situation, and doing it for as long as Tim, you can see how customers remain loyal. “It’s a face to face business where most companies now are going online. I think our way of doing business will prevail at the end of the day.”
Building a strong client base in the region, Tim has been able to grow the business by adding two staff members and another truck to his operations. Tim’s long-standing relationships with his customers and knowledge of Snap-on tools have helped his staff expand the service, “everything just follows on because all the groundwork is there.”
The Snap-on products are major benefit to any workshop, in particular the testing and diagnostic tools. Tim has seen significant change from the introduction of diagnostics by Snap-on Tools early on in the industry. “The mid ‘90s was when Snap-on developed US software for Australian vehicles. We find that because we’ve been here for so long, we started a lot of our customers with Snapon diagnostics, and they’ve been very brand loyal.”
Reflecting on some of the proudest moments since joining the Snap-on family, Tim remembers the big achievements. In the mid-90s, his franchise was recognised as number one in Australia for top sales in the year. Ever since then, the business has pushed further and remained amongst the top in the industry. His two staff members, Brendan and Jay, are also recognised as number one and ten, respectively, in the country.
Tim highlights the hard work and consistency involved in keeping the business going, whilst his family, with a special mention of wife Michelle, have been a pillar of support. “You’ve got to be all in with support on all fronts.” Ultimately it pays off, even with the impacts of COVID-19, the business was only off the road twice for a couple weeks in the last two years.
Snap-on is a leading manufacturer of premium tool and equipment solutions. The unique franchise model transports Snap-on’s tool range direct from workshopto- workshop via dedicated franchisees like Tim Tredrea.
Become a franchise owner with Snap-on Tools and drive your own success. Discover how to be a part of one of the longest-running, successful franchises in the world. Visit snaponfranchise.com.au or start your conversation on 1800 810 581.