From two founders to nearly 30 employees, ARC is on the rise
In just 4.5 years, ARC Asbestos Removal & Demolition (ARC), has transformed from a small startup to a rapidly growing player in the industry. Founded by Thomas Bishop and Cuba Pakai, the company began operating from their base in Manawatū with just the two of them and one staff member. Thomas recalls,
“Cuba and I started off with humble beginnings. We brought Clinton on early to handle health and safety, and now we’re up to just shy of 30 people.”
The Amotai connection
Their decision to join Amotai came early in their journey.
“When we were starting out, we didn’t quite have the network we needed,” says Thomas.
“Amotai offered us a chance to connect with buyers and find opportunities. Karewa Arthur, our supplier diversity lead, explained that’s it like a giant phone book of potential connections. For me, that was crucial in finding work and growing our business.”
The benefits of being part of the Amotai network go beyond just finding contracts.
Thomas noted, “Amotai has provided invaluable support and guidance. They helped us navigate the tendering process and connect with local suppliers when we needed additional support.”
Overcoming early challenges in tendering
ARC’s journey into government and council contracts wasn’t without its bumps. In the early stages of their business, founders Thomas and Cuba faced the daunting task of navigating complex tender processes and meeting the strict requirements of government projects.
Thomas recalls how Amotai’s guidance on tendering helped them understand what markers might look for in a good tender. This support allowed them to refine their approach and become more competitive.
Thomas admits that each new submission brings new insights and improvements.
“We’ve gone through streaks of doing really well, usually when we’ve had time to invest in the tender and hit all the points,” says Thomas.
Securing the Porirua City Council Contract
The opportunity with Porirua City Council was a significant milestone for ARC. Emily Chau, Senior Adviser Waste Management and Minimisation from Porirua City Council, mentions,
“We were looking for a company to help us with a deconstruction project and needed someone with experience in handling asbestos and a focus on waste diversion.”
Thomas recalls how the opportunity came about:
“We saw the contract on GETS and Karewa let us know about it. It was a tight timeline, but we managed to attend the briefing thanks to the quick connection provided from Amotai.”
The Porirua City Council project had specific criteria, including waste diversion and salvaging reusable materials.
“We wanted to see how suppliers could contribute to waste diversion and salvage materials from the building,” says Emily. “ARC’s tender stood out because of their logical methodology and their innovative approach. They also proposed creating a video documenting the deconstruction process, which was something no one else has thought of.”
Despite facing challenges, including complications with tenant removal and some materials not being worth salvaging, ARC still managed to achieve a 70% diversion rate for the overall site works.
Embracing sustainability
ARC is committed to sustainability, aiming to be a green star contractor in New Zealand.
“We’re pushing for waste diversion and recycling wherever possible,” says Thomas.
“For example, we salvage native timber and recycle concrete and steel.”
While it hasn’t been easy, like textiles being deemed hazardous, they continue to seek improvements.
“We’re always looking for ways to better our processes and minimise waste.”
This dedication goes beyond just their own practices.
“We’re working on initiatives to educate and inspire others in the industry,” explained Thomas.
“We want to set an example and show that sustainable practices are not only possible but beneficial.”
Innovative practices
Innovation is key to ARC’s operations.
“We’ve put systems in place to salvage as much as we can during deconstruction. It’s all about making it habitual and efficient,” says Thomas.
They’re also exploring new practices, such as converting gib into fertiliser, though it’s still a work in progress.
“We’re pushing the envelope and looking for new ways to improve our processes. It’s about challenging the status quo and finding better solutions.”
Advice for Amotai suppliers
Thomas’ advice? Be persistent.
“Don’t be afraid to jump into the Amotai network and build relationships. It takes time to develop connections, but it’s worth it,” he says.
He stresses the importance of staying in touch with buyers and continuously improving.
“Keep pushing forward, even when it seems tough. Building a strong network and reputation takes time, but it’s essential for long-term success.”
A future fuelled by innovation and diversity
Thomas emphasises the critical role diverse suppliers play in the industry.
“The more we push for diversification in industries, the more we encourage fresh ideas. It gives companies like ours a chance to shine and bring in new solutions where the same methods have been used for decades,” he explains.
This outlook speaks to the wider impact of allowing small, innovative businesses to thrive within the broader market.
As Thomas points out,
“Just because something has been done the same way for 30 years, doesn’t mean it’s the best way. Bringing in new perspectives can only help us improve.”