SPARKIES PLUG CITY
THE owners of a growing electrical company have taken the next step of buying a home for the business in what they hope is a good long-term investment.
Scott and Penni Benson have acquired an industrial warehouse in Garbutt for just under $300,000 and have structured the investment as part of a selfmanaged superannuation fund.
Their fund buys the property and the business leases it.
They established Bensons Electrical Solutions in 2015 after Mr Benson had been working in the industry for some years.
Originally from Cairns, Mr Benson secured a job with a company undertaking electrical work on the Townsville Hospital, which brought the family to Townsville.
Mr Benson said their children had started school here and they liked the city so when it came time to establish a business they decided to stay.
“We like the Townsville climate and it’s a bit more friendly. That appealed to us,” Mr Benson said.
When they established Bensons Electrical Solutions, Mr Benson was the only employee.
Gradually, the business expanded, providing maintenance services and installation of data and communications networks, mostly in the commercial sector.
It also won maintenance contracts with large national retailers.
The business now employs three other tradespeople, including a second-year apprentice.
Mr Benson said they had been leasing premises in Currajong for about two-and-a-half years and had been looking for a property to buy.
They wanted something that suited their needs at a price they could afford.
Mr Benson said they also wanted to invest in the business.
“We consider this to be a long-term investment. We are not in it for short-term gain,” Mr Benson said.
“We also hope that we are coming into this at the right time. Hopefully, the only way is up.”
Colliers International Townsville agent Shaun McLaren said the Bensons had acquired a great warehouse in a central location.
“It is well priced and gives Scott the opportunity to own his own property and expand his business at the same time,” Mr Mclaren said.
“It has high clearance, good parking and plenty of office area as well so it suited him well.”
After some refurbishment to their warehouse and office property, the Bensons hope to move the business into the property over the next couple of months.
TONY RAGGATT 4722 4439