After 30 years as a sales manager in the brick industry, former architectural draftsman Ari Suomalainen and wife Arja jumped at the chance to open Geelong’s first Buildpro franchise.
“They’re probably the most professional building and landscape supplier that I’ve ever seen and worked with,” the store’s sales and distribution manager says.
“They’ve got great buying power and an excellent supplier network.”
The company approached Ari and Arja last year to open the one-stop-shop for landscaping and building supplies at Grovedale.
The Highton locals opened the store in June and still have a couple of displays to add to the store’s already immense range.
He and Arja, who has worked in the local building industry for 23 years, have already established a good customer base among Geelong builders.
The store’s range has been one of the reasons for the couple’s success to date.
“We have got a lot of exclusive products that only Buildpro sell – ranging from wall cladding to unique paving,” Ari says.
The couple, co-owner David Hazle and customer service officer Kate Douglas have more than 90 years’ experience combined selling building products.
“We specialise in the supply of a wide range of bricks, blocks, pavers and cladding material, with more products being offered regularly,” Ari says.
“Our stunning collection of wall cladding products will allow you to create contemporary or classic designs with the distinctive look.”
Buildpro also offers clay bricks, composite decking, natural stone cladding, landscaping products, like artificial grass and retaining walls, and other accessories, at its purpose built showroom.
“We’re basically a one-shop-stop for landscaping and building,” Ari says.Buildpro has the answer for any outdoor needs, from natural stone to pavers in a vast array of designs.
“A wide variety of colours and styles are available to create a timeless and natural look that will enhance any property,” Ari says.
As a former architectural draftsman, Ari knows what builders want from a design perspective.
“They look for service,” he says.
“Price is very important, but service and after sales support are extremely important.”
Buildpro’s 18 stores around Victorian and NSW and the company’s supply chain gives builders extra piece of mind, Ari says.
The store is also perfect for builders looking to send in their clients to help them choose colour concepts and get advice, he says.
After 30 years as a brick supplier, Ari is expert in wall-related products.
“As part of our standing as a leader in exterior building supplies, here at Buildpro we also pride ourselves in being a premium brick supplier,” he says.
“We’re proud to stock only the best quality products that are made by leading manufacturers such as Selkirk, Krause and Advance Bricks & Pavers.”
Ari’s father and brothers have also worked in the building industry.
“Building runs in our blood,” he says.
Ari and Arja look forward to holding a big open day once the store’s final display is finished.
“We’ll invite all the landscapers, builders, mums and dads,” he says.
The Highton grandparents recently celebrated their granddaughter’s christening and are long-time Geelong residents.
Ari also enjoys fishing and playing bass in a local band.
