In a recent interview with Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha, Contract Manager Mejire Arubayi shed light on the current state of WOODstyles Limited, a prominent joinery and fit-out company specializing in high-quality woodwork for luxury products. Mejire Arubayi, an experienced professional with a remarkable portfolio, shared insights on how the foreign exchange rate is impacting joinery businesses in Nigeria and the innovative strategies WOODstyles is employing to navigate these challenges.
WOODstyles Overview:
WOODstyles is a bespoke joinery and fit-out company that crafts doors, wardrobes, kitchens, workstations, bookshelves, and various wood-based products for residential, commercial, and healthcare spaces. The company focuses on custom projects, tailoring designs to meet clients’ specific requirements, including size, color, and style. They take pride in being a project-based company, capable of delivering complete solutions for homes, offices, restaurants, and more.
Impact of Foreign Exchange Rates:
The rising foreign exchange rates have had a substantial impact on WOODstyles. The company faces increased costs for raw materials due to currency fluctuations. In response, they have had to make modest price adjustments to maintain sustainability. Mejire Arubayi emphasized that the dollar exchange rate has risen by over 100 percent, while their price adjustments have been in the range of 30 to 40 percent.
Innovations to Manage Costs:
WOODstyles is dedicated to finding innovative and cost-effective ways to produce high-quality items without compromising on quality. They are actively working on optimizing power consumption by running generators during specific hours to reduce overheads. While cost reduction options are limited due to the nature of the business, the company is also considering measures like reducing vehicle transportation costs and managing overhead expenses.
Local Sourcing:
The company strives to source materials locally whenever possible to save costs. They prioritize local suppliers that can provide quality and consistency, which is crucial for their business. However, some materials, such as steelwork and Ironmongery, are still imported due to a lack of local alternatives.
Sustainable Wood Sourcing:
WOODstyles has not faced significant issues with wood availability because they do not directly engage in harvesting wood. They source wood from major producers and countries that practice responsible tree planting and harvesting to ensure sustainability.
Customized Solutions:
The choice of wood, color, and materials for each project is influenced by the client’s needs and the intended use of the product. WOODstyles provides advice based on the specific requirements, ensuring the right wood and materials are used for various applications, such as kitchens, bathrooms, cabinets, doors, and wardrobes.
Quality and ISO Certification:
WOODstyles maintains high-quality standards and holds ISO certification. This commitment to quality and adherence to industry standards is a core part of their business philosophy.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Apart from foreign exchange and power challenges, other issues include manpower availability and infrastructure limitations. However, the company has observed that even in difficult economic times, people continue to invest in furniture and joinery, which has led to consistent patronage. WOODstyles remains focused on innovative solutions to mitigate challenges and maintain profitability.
Differentiation and Future Plans:
WOODstyles differentiates itself by offering bespoke solutions, engaging with clients personally, and ensuring their satisfaction. The company plans to remain dedicated to joinery and does not intend to diversify into unrelated industries. They aim to continually innovate and expand their reach, striving to become the top joinery company in East and West Africa within the next five to ten years. Their focus is on organic growth and providing value to clients.