Founded by Walter Kufahakutizwi in 2014, Life Shopfitters is fast making a big impression in the construction industry with its range of services highly demanded by different clients from various sectors of the economy.
Speaking to Standardbusiness, Kufahakutizwi said they were buoyed by their progress and they aspire to become one of the leading, if not the leading, construction company in Zimbabwe.
“Life Shopfitters is a tried and tested industry player, which started off in the design and fitting industry offering various services among them aluminium sliding doors and windows, shower cubicles, fitted kitchens, fitted wardrobes, shop fronts, shop cubicles and office partitions," he said.
We have already moved into contracting with the full rebranding plans in place. New services introduced include bricklaying, roofing, electrical, steelworks, shop fitting, plastering and renovations. We want to be the market leader in our sector and we are happy that our consistency and professionalism is paying off.”
The affable businessman, who joined the design and fitting sector back in 2002, reckons it has been a challenging but enriching journey and he is happy that what started off as some pastime supporting his father at his workplace has become a source of livelihood and the pride of his growing client portfolio.
“My father used to work at some aluminium and metal industries and one day his bosses told him that he was supposed to bring me to work the next day. One thing led to another and I then grew into the system.
"I even moved to sales and marketing and with more research we then decided that it was important for us to value-add our products. Our bosses, who were used to the traditional way of doing things, then found fault with this move leading to some hearings until we decided to call it quits for our own ventures,” Kufahakutizwi said.
The passionate businessman whose current engagements have seen him completing major Harare projects in Borrowdale Brooke, Chishawasha Hills, Mt Pleasant Heights, Skyline Hotel and Graniteside Industries as well as other cities and towns dotted around the country said he was happy to be his own man though he tried working with other guys after leaving their previous employer.
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“When we left our former employers, we tried working together with some guys until I then decided to go it alone. I registered the company in 2014 but we started operations in 2016.
"We have over the years proved our mettle through providing tailor-made and market-tested services covering both residential and commercial properties. Our quest is to become a reliable and one-stop provider of all our clients’ needs through adding value and beauty to their properties. Our vision is both national and regional so that over time we become an African pride through quality workmanship,” he said.
With a vision to become the leading contracting as well as design and fitting company in Zimbabwe and beyond through quality and tailor-made services for the client, the company has espoused the highest levels of professionalism in its work.
“We are a highly professional company providing reliable, market tested and affordable services to our clients through research, market engagement and respect for customer feedback. In all we do we uphold honesty, transparency, professionalism, accountability and timeliness which has helped us grow our market share
Our advice to existing and potential clients is that whatever your design and fitting needs, you deserve value for money. Don’t cut corners, engage the best to get the best because at Life Shopfitters, we are specialists in providing the best services possible covering aluminium sliding doors and windows, shower cubicles, fitted kitchens, fitted wardrobes, shop fronts, shop cubicles, office partitions as well as contracting services,” Kufahakutizwi said.
While some service providers in the same sector thrive on cutting corners to make a quick dollar, Kufahalutizwi said the company prides itself in customer experience and giving value for money.
“For us, it’s not just about the money and quick gains. We offer the best possible consultancy so that our client is guided on what product and service works best for their structure. That way you are guaranteed of quality finishing on all work.
"We take every job opportunity as a signature effort to entrench our workmanship and business values. Life Shop Fitters also boasts of professional and experienced technicians. We always endeavor to give our best and ensuring that our clients enjoy the best experience possible with every engagement,” he said.
With the general state of the economy resulting in market instability and galloping prices of goods and services, Kufahakutizwi said they have remained considerate of their cherished clients.
“Our products are priced right so that our clients are able to enjoy them to taste and within their budget We value feedback in all we do and true to the customer is King assertion, we at all times continue to be guided by the needs of the client and the feedback they give us,” he said.
A married father of three, two boys and a girl, the fast-rising businessman said he is grateful for the gift of family and his wife who is also a director at the company.
“I thank God for a loving and supportive wife, who happens to be one of the directors at Life Shopfitters. Working together we are building a credible legacy brand that will forever be etched in the annals of the local contracting as well as design and fitting industry.
"My kids are also passionate about the business and whenever my two sons are on holiday, they always come to be part of the work. My youngest daughter is always following me on business errands and I can tell that we are sowing the right seed in her,” she said.
With many young Zimbabweans venturing into entrepreneurship, Kufahakutizwi said consistency and professionalism remain the key to sustainability.
“Consistency is the gateway to success and longevity. In everything you are doing just keep digging, one day you will strike gold. Some are too quick to throw in the towel and they lose out on opportunities because of that
"Equally important is professionalism. Always respect the client and prioritise communication as you carry out the work. The possibilities are endless but it is professionalism that will keep you in business,” he said,
