Prominent Paints has launched BuildersBox, a double-storey specialised paint store in an adapted steel shipping container, in Soweto. The store is a one-stop building shop with everything from paint to cement – for both local traders and DIYers.
Prominent Paints brand marketing manager, Lani Carstens says, “The concept is bringing something new and fresh to the retail experience when it comes to DIY paint specialist centres. The store’s customer-centric approach will ensure customers do not leave without being equipped with the knowledge they need to solve their specific paint problem.”
The adapted containers are sturdy, durable, portable and easy to install and the team broke ground in preparation for installation in March. The construction and setting-up process took under a month. The ground floor is dedicated to retail while the top floor has a restaurant and a business centre offering business services to entrepreneurs.
A collaborative venture between Prominent Paints, its BEE partner Africa’s Got-Game and PPC Cement, the project is the first of its kind in South Africa and will contribute towards enterprise development of informal traders within the paint and construction industry, while offering training and education to members of the community.
Developed to address inequality, unskilled youth and SMME development within South Africa, the programme’s focus is directed at township revitalisation and growing the building and construction industry by delivering products and services to the doorsteps of communities.
Industry experts approved and appointed by Prominent Paints and PPC will present the practical training, which is free to the community.
Carstens says the project will extend to include business management skills critical to the successful operation of a start-up business operation such as this.
Backed by coating manufacturers, PPG, the value-added product offering includes a range of quality paint systems and accessories, professional ‘on trend’ colour advice, free quotations as well as a delivery service.
“We focus on the needs of consumers, helping them to choose the right product for their needs that is superior in quality and good value for money; that is the formula for our success,” concludes Carstens.
