1. The thoughts behind the creating of this department.
“My thoughts when it came to the creation of this department within Everstar Industries was to expand the product range. Up until now, the focus in ESI has been to provide original parts to support our known brands such as Powerstar, FT Series and Shantui.”
2. The direction you’d like to take this department in.
“I have short term goals, as well as long term goals, for this department”, says Watkins.
“Short term I would say is to get all our dealers, local as well as in Southern Africa, on board. I want it known that this department has fast moving and wearing parts – to trade them as well of course.”
“Long term would then be to become a one stop shop for heavy duty vehicle parts. To achieve this, eventually an online trading app would be the goal – this would make it ultimately more efficient.”
“I don’t want to put ESI general parts in a box, so I am going to say, the sky is the limit,” says Watkins confidently and we have no doubt he will achieve everything he sets his mind to with his skills and determination.
“I would also like to trade retail,” was Watkins’ final remark.
3. What parts are offered?
“Our two biggest selling products is our full range of Lubricants (Gazpromneft, Engen and Cummins) and our filters (Fleetguard, Donaldson and Baldwin) for commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery, and construction equipment.”
This department has so much to offer, truly making it that one stop shop already – “We have lubricants for engines, transmissions, gears, ATF’s, hydraulics, as well as coolants and greases. We provide filters such as air, oil, fuel, hydraulic and water filters. We also provide maintenance filter kits.”
“Lastly, we offer tyres (Techking, Linglong, Aeolus and Double Happiness, etc), batteries (Raylite), air brakes (Wabco, ProVia, and Sorl) and hydraulic system components (Bezares, Hyva, Penta and ODF).”
4. What is the availability like on these parts, should someone enquire?
“With the world having been in lockdown for an extensive period, availability has been delayed on a few parts, but we are proud to say, not to the extent that we are losing customers. We are thankful for their patience and understanding in this regard.
5. What is the dynamic within the department?
Watkins is the only one currently in this department, but this doesn’t stop him from reaching his short and long term goals – even if he is going solo for now.
“What I can say is that every department within ESI works together and helps one another wherever they can. Being the new kid on the block as far as departments go, everyone has bought into General Parts and wants to see it grow, just as much as I do.”
6. What is your business philosophy when it comes to the making of a successful parts department?
Watkins firmly explains, “I am here to provide the best product for its application, at a competitive price, but most of all, provide the best service to our clients. I tell my clients, we are here to help you grow your business.”
7. Your opinion on Everstar parts?
Simple, but effective – “Everstar parts are well priced and readily available.” Watkins only needs one word, “reliable.”
8. Any other comments?
From our short interview together, we can assure you one thing – Watkins enthusiasm and passion will get you excited about parts. Just hear what he has to say – call him on 082 341 7678.
