Sustainable Futures

New systems and partnership mean Trident Homes franchisees will be ahead of the game

As new legislation kicks in, Trident Homes needs more franchisees to build healthier, more cost-efficient homes

Trident Homes is a New Zealand-owned company with a relentless commitment to excellence. Founded by the vastly-experienced David Pickles and Neil Hawker in 2013, the franchise has 11 thriving franchisees and is looking for more.

‘We pride ourselves on building innovative modern homes with customers’ needs front of mind,’ says Neil, ‘and we apply that same approach to our own business. There’s an increasing focus these days on carbon and waste reduction, both from customer choice and incoming regulation, so we have spent 18 months researching options that will not just exceed compliance standards – they’ll also give our franchisees a genuine competitive advantage.’

Trident have partnered with Formance, who produce their new range of Eco Spec Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) in their own factory in Christchurch. ‘These panels are highly suitable for Trident’s affordable designs and custom-made house plans,’ Neil explains. ‘They consist of two layers of high density facings bonded to a central section of highlyinsulating polystyrene. SIPs are light-weight, versatile – you can use them for walls, floors and ceilings – and very quick to assemble.’

Closed-in buildings in just two days

How quick? Neil says, ‘The Eco Spec SIPs come from the factory fitted with screw eyes so a Hiab can drop them in position and typically you can complete walls in one day. After putting on the ceiling and roof, you can have a closed-in building in just two days (see photos below) – that’s almost unheard-of in New Zealand!’

The panels have a much higher insulation rating than required by the legislation due to come in by April 2023. ‘This means Trident franchisees will be well ahead of the game, and will help the homes we build to use 50 percent less power, or better, over their lifetime.

‘Essentially, we are building much healthier homes for New Zealanders with a great and sustainable system – and it’s good for business, too. We’re making home construction faster and easier for our builders, and creating a new range of eco-spec homes that represent a huge step forward in performance, comfort and ecoresponsibility for our clients.’

Proven performance, reliable supply

Dunedin builder Brett Johnston, who has experience with the new SIPs, is already a fan. ‘It’s a good way of building. There is a lot of offsite manufacturing which speeds up the process on-site – the structure is much quicker to put up and then close in. And there’s no doubt that it is a good, high-quality product which is well ahead of the new codes. I’m convinced this collaboration between Trident and Formance will be of considerable benefit to franchisees and builders alike.’

SIPs have a proven record over 40 years in the US, Europe and the UK as an alternative construction material for homes and buildings. By replacing traditional timber framing, SIPS have upgraded insulation and energy efficiency levels. Formance panels have Code Mark certification which ensures compliance with the NZ Building Code, and peace of mind that they will meet the high performance standards.

And while materials and pricing have been a major issue for sole trader builders, Trident Homes franchisees have the backing of major suppliers in the industry along with access to their robust supply chains. ‘We’ve built an excellent relationship with Formance and can deliver SIPs all over the country without interruption,’ says Neil. ‘We are rocking already, and as the regulations change, I expect these panels will become the core of our franchisees’ businesses.’

Helping good builders grow

With many years of building experience behind it, Trident Homes is looking for skilled, experienced craftsmen with a good reputation who want to build a sizeable asset with a respected brand and see their business take off.

As Neil says, ‘Life can be hard for small traders: you have to organise marketing, quoting jobs, design plans, contracts and admin, chase unpaid invoices – all while managing contractors and suppliers and the actual building. Trident Homes has tried and tested systems for managing all these aspects, with exclusive software and specialised training for recruiting staff and bringing them up to speed.

‘We currently have some prime areas crying out for a Trident Homes franchise, including Marlborough/Nelson and the West Coast of the South Island, and Hamilton, Waikato, Kapiti, Wellington, Napier/ Hastings and Gisborne in the North. The franchise fee of $50,000 +gst gives you full training along with access to our unique designs and management systems that are as efficient as they are profitable.

‘Several franchisees have commented that our policy of “little and often” training made learning much easier, and helped them to cope with their businesses as they grew larger than they ever imagined. The Trident Homes brand is already a big asset in bringing in new customers, and our partnership with Formance will only increase the benefits we offer franchisees as we embrace new sustainable building methods to create healthier, low energy homes,’ Neil says. ‘

Give me a ring to find out more, or talk to any of our franchisees about the Trident Homes opportunity.’

Advertiser Info

Trident Homes

www.tridenthomes.nz

Contact Neil Hawker

P 0275 321 191

nhawker@tridenthomes.nz