Page 67 - KZN Top Business LEADERS-eBook

ALLAN HIRSCH

llan Hirsch, the founder and chairman of a loaf of bread for 11 cents on his way home part of us, but if they leave, they take their skills
Hirsch’s, is a remarkable example of some- that night was “enormously symbolic.” He fondly elsewhere and we wish them well.”
one who came from humble beginnings remembers working “long hours when others took
Aand overcame significant challenges weekends off,” with the support of Margaret. He gets serious when stating, “Honesty, integrity,
to achieve success. He embodies the belief that and loyalty are required; these principles can’t
“where you begin does not determine where you Initially, Allan only repaired appliances, but as his be compromised and are not negotiable. We
can go.” reputation grew, so did his business. Eventually, are totally transparent about the business with our
he began formally dealing in appliances as well staff.”
Hirsch’s, which celebrated its 45th anniversary in starting to sell stoves and fridges. Margaret’s
2024, is now the largest privately-owned appliance innovative marketing ideas helped create a strong Selecting quality products and suppliers is also
dealer in southern Africa, encompassing a chain demand for Hirsch’s products. When microwaves hit important for him. His view is: “Look after your
of mega appliance and home furnishing stores. the market, they saw potential in the new appliance suppliers and they will look after you.”
The name ‘Hirsch’ has become synonymous with and Margaret started cooking demonstrations to Trust must be earned and Alan still tries to enhance
service excellence. showcase their benefits. Their clients loved the fact the good reputation Hirsch’s has built over 45
that Allan and Margaret went out of the way to years. “Winners always keep going. You need to
Born in Johannesburg, Allan Hirsch moved with his make their lives easier.
family to the KwaZulu-Natal coast, where he grew keep your vision and keep on working hard when
up. He was one of the first pupils to attend Umhlali Allan is passionate about the environment and things go wrong.”
Primary School on the North Coast. Reflecting on energy efficiency. “Many years ago, I realised how WIDE RECOGNITION
his early years, Allan says, “I didn’t shine in school. important energy efficiency was in South Africa.
After struggling through high school with very It made me very aware of how appliances can be Allan has received wide recognition for his business
poor grades, I decided to become an apprentice used effectively and how certain appliances use contributions, including the Marketing Management
appliance technician.” He began his career with less water and less electricity and are quieter than Institute’s “Marketer of the Year Award” in 1994 and
Fuchsware, where he worked for five years and others. We try to encourage the consumer to buy the Standard Bank KZN Business Leader of the Year
gained invaluable experience in refrigerator repair. energy efficient products. I believe as an appliance Award in 2019. The honorary award is given to a
After this, he joined another company, where his retail store we really can influence decisions and person who has demonstrated, “exemplary business
and the owner’s business philosophies clashed. at the same time make a difference. We believe achievement, industry influence and is a true
“The owner wanted to keep increasing margins,” he it starts at the socket. If things that are not being inspiration to others”.
recalls, “while I wanted reasonable rates and great used are unplugged it has an impact,” he says. Allan and his wife Margaret have been married
service to keep customers happy.”
HAVING A WHY for 52 years and have two children, Richard and
FIRST STORE OPENED Luci, who now play key roles in the business. “Our
Allan firmly believes that “having a why” is essential highlight has been getting to work with our family
When his employer suggested he strike out on for staying passionate and being a good leader. every single day,” they say, and Allan is also a proud
his own, Allan found the idea both exciting and He credits Simon Sinek’s book, Start with Why, for grandfather to five grandsons.
intimidating. Recently married to Margaret, he had helping him define the purpose of Hirsch’s. “Hard
just bought his first property, and his first child was work with a goal in mind is necessary,” he says. Despite the demands of running a growing business,
on the way. Despite these pressures, he eventually “Retail requires listening to customers and keeping the Hirsch family remained close, enjoying regular
opened an electrical appliance repair store on them happy; my success has been about serving Sunday lunches together and staying in constant
Umhlanga Rocks Drive in Durban North in 1979. others. I realised my purpose in life is to serve.” contact. Both Richard, now CEO, and Luci, Brand
Manager, rose through the ranks, contributing to
“We set up our first shop 44 years ago in a showroom, Allan’s approach to leadership is straightforward. the company’s continued success and expansion
no bigger than a bathroom,” he explained. Looking “People are human, grow them, teach them skills, into mega appliance and home furnishing stores
back, he remembers feeling “absolutely flat broke” and more than just selling or servicing, teach across KwaZulu-Natal, Cape Town, and Gauteng.
the day Hirsch’s Electrical Repairs opened, having them how the business works.” Seeing staff grow, As the family looks to the future, they take pride in
spent his R900 savings on rent, an electricity improve their circumstances and being happy with their accomplishments, founded on the values of
deposit, and marketing. He recalls that buying their lives inspires him. “We like to keep people honesty, integrity, and loyalty.
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