Business View Oceania | June 2022

27 28 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 4, ISSUE 6 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 4, ISSUE 6 making sure native forests are well cared for.” As well as sustainability, Heartwood staff value communication, fairness, quality, and flexibility. The team is currently working on building their commercial portfolio through gallery renovations, apartment complexes, and display suites. There are a number of differentiating factors that set Heartwood apart from their local competitors, which include but are not limited to free measure and quote services that can be carried out on site or via plans and have a two working day turnaround, free moisture testing, experienced assistance with project planning and management, and complete technical advice for DIY enthusiasts. Mr. Spiteri elaborates, “It’s not really about the money anymore. It’s about providing a great service and exceeding our clients’ expectations while maintaining our environmental integrity. Our business philosophy is simple- we treat our clients how we would want to be treated. Timber floors can cost anywhere from 10 to 50 to 100 grand depending on the customer’s needs, preferred material, and project plan. That’s a really significant investment for anyone. As well as our major interactions, we do little things that make a difference, like making sure the site is left clean and tidy after we work. Simple, yet effective. That’s our way.” Heartwood predicts that engineered timber flooring will become more commonplace moving forward. With sustainability being one of the top decision-making factors for prospective clients, Australian species are gaining popularity throughout the country. Sydney is no different, Mr. Spiteri explains. “I think we will see engineered timbers really take over the market. They tend to get a lot more out of the tree with a veneer, so it’s superior in terms of being environmentally friendly. Product innovation will always be in the forefront of our minds- new styles, new engineered materials, new colours. Solid hardwoods are perhaps becoming less popular, particularly for those clients who are conscious of their budget. For us, we intend to value add as much as we can and spoil our customers for choice. I am in the process of becoming a registered timber flooring inspector through the Australian Timber Flooring Association (AFTA), with whom we have achieved the highest rating of showroom accreditation. Alongside ATFA, Heartwood would like to thank their suppliers, including Hurfords Hardwood, Preference Floors, Quick-Step Premium Floors, Britton Timbers, Bostik, and Capital Shutters. Mr. Spiteri concludes, “At the end of the day, people love timber floors. They love the aesthetics, the versatility, the ease of cleaning… Even things like being better for people with allergies. There are so many reasons why these floors are taking precedence over materials like carpet and tile. We are really happy with the range we have created and will continue to leverage our expertise to match our product quality with a fantastic customer experience. Onwards and upwards!” HEARTWOOD T IMBER FLOORS & SHUTTERS PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Australian Select Timbers www.asttimbers.com.au