Building on an historic family business
"It is human nature to complain. I like to look at the problem from various angles. Consider opportunities rather than problems – it makes life more interesting and less stressful."
Amid all the negativity and lows of life, you get to meet Linda Els. This dynamic lady is keen to transform the family business and her town, with the help of her husband, Chris.
Business is in Linda’s blood. She is the daughter of Richard and Louisa Nel who 45 years ago founded Glencoe Motors on the corner of Karel Landman and Van Riebeeck Streets. Following her dad’s semi-retirement from the business, Linda and Chris moved to Glencoe from Middelburg where they run a successful Truck Dealership. “I was born and schooled in Glencoe and virtually grew up in this garage which was our family business. Some residents may remember my business, a clothing boutique called Lin-Marie in Glencoe.”
She spent 20 years in Empangeni in the trucking field before moving to Middelburg. “Coming back to Glencoe is coming home. We have already upgraded the garage by adding a new convenience store selling spares and we hope to soon complete a new-look forecourt.”
The shop is open from 6am to 8pm daily and the petrol station and kiosk operates 24 hours.
Linda Els on the forecourt of Glencoe Motors where she loves to meet customers.
“The plan is to add a coffee machine from early in the morning so truck drivers, taxis and those leaving early for work can pop around from 5am for a nice cup of coffee and a pie.” She says the pricing in the shop is very competitive as it is their intention to offer top service to their customers. Linda describes herself as a people’s person and loves going out on the forecourt to chat with customers.
“I love people. In Middelburg, I was involved in a soup kitchen which fed up to 150 needy folk daily. So, yes, I love to make a difference where I can.”
She remarks that her somewhat impulsive nature is offset by Chris’s structured approach to life.
James Sithole who has 33 years of service with Glencoe Motors with Linda and Chris Els. Right: In the spares shop with Salman Jamal and Linda Els.
“It is human nature to complain. I like to look at the problem from various angles. Consider opportunities rather than problems – it makes life more interesting and less stressful.”
“We have many ideas and are looking forward to the future. I am pleased that the legacy of Glencoe Motors, started by my parents, will continue. We have loyal staff some of whom have been here for over 30 years and we want to build on that legacy.”
Linda and Chris have three children – twin boys in Middelburg that are both in the trucking industry and a daughter in Durban who is a Chartered Accountant.
She has already met many people who remember her when she lived in Glencoe and now Linda and Chris are keen to meet more people and grow the business they love.
HAVE YOUR SAY:
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 13
