The second Skillcraft Open Day of 2024, held simultaneously across Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg, marked another successful event in the company’s calendar, drawing record attendance. The Open Days attracted more than 200 stores nationwide, with 88 of them attending the Johannesburg event.
Skillcraft’s open days provide a unique opportunity for customers to tour the showrooms, view new products, and experience the seamless operation of the company. All the Open Days included Warehouse Tours offering insights into logistics management, general warehouse operations, and the spares and repairs processes. These tours are designed to give customers a deeper understanding of the efficient processes that ensure timely deliveries. The Johannesburg warehouse tour was conducted by Jaco Viljoen – National warehouse and logistics manager.
Brandon Grenfell and Justin Lees welcoming retailers.
An exciting update for future Johannesburg open days is the anticipated end July completion of the warehouse extension, which will add 8 000m2 to the existing 6 000m2, including a 1 200m2 showroom.
This expansion promises even more streamlined operations and enhanced customer experience. Viljoen also highlighted the success of the new Durban warehouse, a critical depot for Skillcraft products. Once goods arrive from the port, 60% of the stock is automatically rerouted to Johannesburg, preventing stockouts and ensuring a steady supply.
Gauteng Open Days
The events were attended by prominent retailers such as Build It, Essential Hardware, Alpha Industries, ARB, Macdonald Steel, Mica, SA Fasteners and Montague Gardens Hardware amongst others. Attendees had the chance to explore the full range of Ingco products, including significant new additions. Ingco sales staff and brand ambassadors were present to answer queries and take sales orders, facilitating a productive and interactive environment.
// The Skillcraft Open Day attracted over 200 stores across the three regions //
A standout feature was the inclusion of the Ingco ‘Showroom on Wheels’, a mobile showroom designed for retailers who cannot attend the open days. This upgrade of the Ingco Show and Tell concept allowed clients to experience the exciting range of Ingco products firsthand, with expert guidance from Ingco Brand Ambassadors for the relevant areas.
The mobile showroom received enthusiastic feedback for its modern and accessible approach.
Cape Town and KwaZulu Natal Open Days
The Johannesburg Open Day also served as an opportunity to introduce local clients to the exciting new Wadfow range of power and hand tools. With a stunning display area – thanks to the expertise of merchandiser, Siphiwe Mbongani – these eye-catching tools caught the imagination of retailers. The range offers high-quality tools at lower price points, ensuring that all affordability criteria are met across the Wadfow and Ingco brands. Additionally, Johannesburg retailers were treated to Decakila product demonstrations carried out by Jolene Meintjes, adding a well-received interactive element to the Open Day.
Retailers experienced a day of product showcases, demonstrations, transparency in systems and processes, face-to-face interactions, and a glimpse into Skillcraft’s future plans. The event emphasised Skillcraft’s commitment to delivering excellence in service and innovation, ensuring customers receive the best.
The next Open Days are scheduled for October.
