Breaking new ground
At the flooring industry’s coal face, men dominate the hands-and-knees’ work, but this mother and daughter duo are bucking the trend.
Words Jo Ferris / Photos Alan Gibson
Sarah and Caitlin Tavendale might not install flooring; but from go to whoa, theirs are the faces customers see most. It’s a unique situation – and relationship. Not only do they own and operate a Harrisons Carpets and Flooring franchise each, they are the only mother and daughter in New Zealand to do so. Furthermore, Caitlin – at 24 – is the youngest owner in the country. She was just 22 when offered a franchise, fresh out of university. With a drive to succeed and a passion for interior design, there was no stopping her.
Sarah had already been in the Harrisons family for more than two years - a big step, but not as daunting. Seventeen years as a legal executive and several years as a co-owner in a recruitment company, was followed by an intensive nine years as operations manager for a family fishing business.
“It was time to do something for myself, something I was passionate about and had more control.”
That opportunity arose when Harrisons’ previous owner in Tauranga wanted to retire. Meeting Harrisons’ criteria, Sarah threw herself into invigorating a business she knew was ready for some fresh ideas.
“It was either sink or swim – so I jumped right in.”
Utilising Harrisons’ systems and flying solo, Sarah increased business within 12 months, expanded her installation teams and moved premises. By definition, that doesn’t mean a public showroom, but having a well-equipped warehouse to run a better operation.
The Harrisons’ model is mobile. Hands on. Same branding, systems and products. Otherwise, it’s all about the franchisees. In Sarah and Caitlin’s case – they are the only people customers see, until contractors move in. Even then, these women remain hands on until the end.
It’s pivotal to this duo’s success – that, and an exceptionally close relationship. Not all mothers and daughters can work together; even get on, at times. These women are not only great friends, but share ideas and visions for both businesses – usually over a glass of wine.
Gaining a degree in HR and commercial law, Caitlin admits she didn’t know what she wanted to do, initially. Helping Sarah with office administration, her plan was to head to Australia. Then Covid hit. Followed by something else that changed their lives.
With Tauranga’s exploding growth, the opportunity arose to buy a new area. Caitlin wasn’t sure – until interviews and initial concerns by head office cemented a stronger desire to succeed. Even Sarah had initial hesitations, not on Caitlin’s ability, but more about her own reservations. Between them now, they cover Tauranga North and Tauranga Central – early Papamoa down the Mount coastline and from Greerton to Waihi Beach.
Eighteen months on, Caitlin is as passionate as her mother. Sharing premises, they now employ permanent office staff and have several contractor teams.
Life is full on. Working out of the familiar Harrisons’ branded vans – both women believe the mobile model is key. However, it’s their one-on-one approach, often working together in their desire to help people choose the right products, textures and colours for their homes. Taking samples to the home eliminates homeowners running back and forth – as consultations are all handled within their own space.
For these women, people don’t just buy a product, it’s about the service.
As a brand, Harrisons was highly recommended by Readers Digest in its 2022 most trusted list. Sarah and Caitlin are proud to belong to that wider acclaim.
“We’re proud of what we have achieved so far, and look forward to the future.”
Dynamic women – obviously with much more up their sleeves.