When Garmin launched the first GPS units aimed specifically at motorcycles, Pauli Massyn immediatly saw the potential of retailing these products, along with bike communication systems (specifically bluetooth helmet headsets) to the adventure-biker market and started GPS-4-Africa in 2005 as a hobby
In 2008 it became a fulltime business and he converted his garage at home into a specialised workshop.
“I really am passionate about my business. I started GPS-4-Africa as a hobby and I think I am really privileged to be able to run my hobby as a business.”
And that passion has grown GPS-4-Africa to such an extent, that Pauli had to move his operations “to town” and open a showroom and workshop. His new premises is in One Highveld in Centurion, close to Lazarus Ford on John Vorster Drive.
The new premises boast a workshop, a showroom and a coffee bar that always has fresh coffee.
Products from SW Motech, ATG: All Terrain Gear, Handpresso, Wunderlich, Uvex, Cardo Scala, Garmin, Baehr, AirHawk, Motorradical and Wild @ Heart can be seen in the showroom.
“After establishing a client base among adventure-bike riders, I worked on becoming a one-stop supplier to the market. I expanded my product offering to include crash helmets, luggage and lights. I also supply camping equipment – tents, beds, chairs, sleeping bags, cooking equipment – for the adventurer who wants to spend up to two weeks at a time in the wild.
Pauli says he doesn’t favour one supplier’s products to another: “This way I can really recommend the best product for the client’s specific need.
“My business is based on honest and true service and advice. I listen to my client’s needs and advise accordingly. And this is very important for me, because many people waste their money on the wrong purchases because they did not have proper advice.
“We render high quality service and I think that is our biggest competitive advantage. Because I am very proud of our work – and my clients can attest to that.
“I use all of the products I sell myself and if I’m not happy with something, I will not recommend it. By sharing my knowledge with my clients, I give them the best products for their needs.
“My clients also know that I work on every motorcycle as if it is my own. I am painstakingly neat and I am very proud of my work.”
