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Over the last 21 years, Phil Hughes Office Solutions has outlived all other local stationery and office machine stores to become the last of the locals.
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“We are the last of the local office suppliers that focus on stationery,” Phil said.
“We have outlasted them all including Northern Business Machines.
“We do try and push the shop local aspect of our business, I think a lot of our customers are very happy they can still deal locally with us and know they can call us at any time.”
The shop in Brisbane Street is open to all customers and has a wide range of stationery on display as well as a separate showroom for office machines, so customers can come in and give them try. They also have an extensive range of office furniture as they continue to diversify the business.
While the business has evolved over the years, the customer focus has remained the same. “I’ve used the philosophy it's not who’s right its what’s right,” Phil said.
I’ve used the philosophy it's not who’s right its what’s right
- Phil Hughes
“I always want to do right by our customers, making sure they are getting value for their money, and we take any issues they have seriously.
Phil prides himself on the level of customer service he and his team deliver every day.
“We always get comments on our fast delivery service,” Phil said
“In most cases, we can deliver to our customers the same day they order because we have fantastic warehouse staff who make sure we are always stocked.
Asked what he credited to his success in business, Phil said ‘good staff.’
“I’ve got a fantastic team behind me,” he said. “Cameron Keane is head of our workshop with Matt and Jack, and they have a real feel with what is going on around the place.
“We have also been able to pick up staff when other businesses have closed, Theresa Smith came to us when Group Newsagency Supplies bought Leedon distributors and closed down.
“We got David Holmyard when Staples downsized, and he has a lot of experience having worked with Dunstan and Island Stationery.”
“I’ve also been very fortunate to have a supportive family, who have all worked in the business,” Phil said.
“As of today, our daughter Leanne works in our warehouse, Ryan is managing the business and our other son Chris worked here for four years before becoming a plumber in his own business, Chris Hughes Plumbing.”
