In the quiet corners of a small room, with just a single sewing machine and an ambitious dream, Neville and Joan Vollenhoven from Goodwood embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on their community.
What began as a modest endeavour to create underwear garments quickly gained momentum through the support of friends, neighbours, and word of mouth.
As demand for their quality products increased, Neville and Joan saw an opportunity to expand their clothing offerings and range.
With growing demand, the Vollenhovens transitioned from their small room to building a servant’s quarter and converting their garage into a workspace. However, it soon became clear that even more space was necessary. A casual conversation with the delivery man from their former business, “Pixi’s Pride”, paved the way for the next phase of their business, leading to a new location for Vollenhoven Fashions.
Cornerstone of the community
For over 50 years, Vollenhoven Fashions has been more than just a clothing manufacturer; it has become a cornerstone of the community, supplying schools, households, and the broader surrounding areas with high-quality school uniforms. Their offerings, including ties, pants, shirts, tracksuits, and jackets, have become synonymous with reliability and excellence. As Neville fondly states: “to make an impact in a young child’s life through a school uniform is priceless”.
One poignant memory that stands out for Neville is of a six-year-old girl who came for her first fitting, adamantly refusing to let him take her measurements. Years later, as she prepared for her matric year, she specifically requested Mr. V to assist with her new uniform, a testament to the lasting impressions and relationships built over the years.
Triumphs and challenges
The journey of Vollenhoven Fashions has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. Reflecting on their experience, Neville highlights the impact of Covid-19 as a significant hurdle that he and Joan had to navigate. Their adaptability and resilience were crucial in ensuring the survival and continued success of their business. Neville credits the grace of God and the unwavering support of his wife, Joan, as pivotal elements in their journey. “Having a wife that supports and understands business plays a vital role in the success of any venture,” he asserts.
Five key business lessons
As he celebrates his 80th birthday, Neville shares five key business lessons gleaned from his extensive experience as an entrepreneur:
- Create prototypes: Whether offering a physical product or a service, having samples allows potential customers to experience and understand what you are selling, thereby shortening the purchasing cycle.
- The customer comes first: Sales are the lifeblood of any business, and customers are king. Focus on their needs, create products or services that align with those needs, and consistently deliver on their expectations.
- Keep on learning: Neville emphasises the importance of continuous learning. With constant technological advancements, staying updated and teachable is crucial for ongoing success.
- Get a coach: A mentor or coach is invaluable, regardless of industry, sector, or age. They provide guidance, help overcome challenges, and lead you to success.
- Communication is key: Effective communication is critical for growth and success. Miscommunication can negatively impact a business, so maintaining clear communication with staff, customers, suppliers, and partners is essential.
