Connelly's - 1976 - 2026 - 3rd Decade
- Steve Connelly
- Feb 9
- 2 min read
The 3rd Decade
1. By 1999 – Connellys as part of Office Network, combined with 2 other marketing groups covering Copiers & printers, Computers, and Office Supplies/Stationery joined forces to form “OFFICE NATIONAL” . This was and remains the largest independent business to business provider of office products and business technology in solutions in Australia.
We did a new branding launch about the National group we had joined but also remained Locally Owned and Operated and committed to “Keepin’ it Local”. Do you remember to song we had made about Keepin’ it Local? (Click to Listen)
3. In the Year 2000 there were 2 significant things that had a major impact on the workload at Connelly’s.
a. The Millenium Bug (Y2K Bug) – this created a massive amount of work trying to update computer systems and other electronics to be prepared for the Turn of the century.
b. GST was introduced in Australia on the 1st July 2000. So the workload to update computers systems and applications, even reprogram Cash registers and other devices to be able to calculate the GST was massive.
c. June 2000 was and remains our highest value trading month in our history.
d. June 2000 also saw the birth of Steve’s first child. It was a pretty hectic time.
4. By 2001 we had a team of seven people with 3 technical staff servicing Computers, Copiers, Printers & Multifunction’s, and small business networks.
5. The team at that time included locals Teresa Taylor (now Waugh) and Nathan Fairall.
6. This was also a time when we expanded our store, by purchasing the shop next door (the old Mut Mut Hut pizzeria), so we now had a larger showroom and much more space for the Workshop and technical team.
7. 2001 – 2005 As part of the Office National relationship we become a Brother Authorised Dealer & Service Centre and also achieved Silver Certification with Acer Computers.
8. A big internal change to a implement a Fully integrated ERP management and stock management software. No More hand written Invoices.
9. May 2004 – We did our first install of Wireless technology. Connecting the Office of LPC Trading to the Weighbridge Office and the Chook sheds, so the staff would have Internet Access. One of these sheds was about 2 kms away “as the crow flies”.
10. By July 2006, the 30th Anniversary year – Jenelle had hired her replacement bookkeeper and retired out of the business.
11. Geoff remained in the business working (as the most experience stock boy in the industry) but Steve took over management of the organisation as Managing Director.
Decade 4 to come....
The evolution of Connelly's and its integration into Office National is quite fascinating, revealing the complexities of adapting to technological and regulatory changes in the early 2000s. The introduction of GST and the Y2K situation must have been overwhelming for the team. Moreover, the mention of the brand JackpotJill https://omanz.co.nz/ raises questions about how branding influences customer loyalty and local engagement over time.
The evolution of Connelly’s into a significant player within the Office National framework raises interesting questions about adaptability and growth. The transition highlights how businesses must embrace technological advancements, exemplified by the implementation of the new ERP management system. The mention of Speed Au also reminds us of the pace at which companies must evolve to stay competitive. The intertwined impacts of external factors like GST and internal decisions provide a rich tapestry for understanding business dynamics.
The evolution of Connelly's into a pivotal player in the office products sector illustrates the complexities of adapting to both technological advancements and market demands. The momentous changes, particularly the introduction of GST and the Y2K Bug, required agility and foresight. The partnership with Royal Reels signifies a strategic move that may have reinforced their commitment to localized service while expanding their operational capabilities.
The evolution of Connelly’s into a significant player in the office supplies sector reflects a broader trend in business adaptation. The introduction of technology and systems marked a pivotal shift, much like the impact of The Pokies on local economies, influencing consumer behavior and spending patterns. It's vital to consider how such external changes shape business landscapes over time.
I appreciate the balanced perspective offered in this article. The influence of interactive digital services on user preferences is a significant observation. Additional background on this topic may be found on the website . The examples provided enhance the overall understanding.