Colortrade Paints celebrates 25 years with fortitude
“The environment and the community is at the heart of everything we do.” These are the words of Charles Govender, the man behind Colortrade Paints and the driving force behind a successful business. Having started its journey in 1995, Colortrade Paints has evolved into a brand and thrived over 29 years. A network of retail outlets provides quality products and top service to local communities in Durban North, Phoenix, Verulam, Chatsworth and Kwa Mashu. Products are marketed regionally, nationally and internationally.
“As a graduate working in chemical-related industries during the eighties, and there was always a glass ceiling, but that’s what inspired me to begin Colortrade Paints. And it’s the relationships that are important because when I began the business, I had a lot of support. So while entrepreneurship was a driving factor, it was also the opportunities I wanted to create: meaningful employment for community members.”
With a natural flair for entrepreneurship and innovation, Charles made his dream of becoming a business owner a reality, as South Africa walked its first few steps into democracy. With a sense of unstoppable determination, Charles and his hard-working team have persevered during the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Colortrade Paints, along with some clientele, operated as essential services during South Africa’s lockdown. They played their part in supplying quarantine centres to assist in the influx of citizens returning home from abroad. It was crucial in protecting the lives of citizens within our borders. “We had to be sensible as business owners, employees and community members. We played our part in this pandemic not only for ourselves but for the people around us.”
According to Charles, there have been many proud moments and achievements over the years. These include community projects and receiving an accolade from the German government for an innovation programme. “There have been so many impactful moments that to narrow it down to one is difficult, but the loyal support we get has been the most meaningful.”
The team behind the business is one that Charles describes as a family. “There are employees who have been working for the company since it opened, and average years of service is 17… It is a true testament to the working environment that we strive to create. Positive employee morale is always a priority.” When asked what he envisions for the next 25 years, Charles says, “We aim to roll out two new stores each year and we’re determined to reach our short-term goal of 10 stores. For the next 25 years, I hope for the business to continue on a path of success and remain sustainable.
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