CYMOT CELEBRATES 75 YEARS OF SUCCESS
There are not many longstanding successful companies that have stood the test of time, with over 75 years of trading and supply success. CYMOT’s commitment to upholding their Vision Statement: “To be the leader in all markets we operate in and achieve this through quality, service, and solution”, was well celebrated at their recently held trade show in Windhoek, Namibia.
210 Of their valued suppliers participated in the show. Combined, these suppliers contribute an extensive range of over 45 000 products, all available under one roof. This is all backed by the very latest industry technology and competent staff, enabling customers to explore their options and buy online as well.
The company’s journey is a far cry from its humble beginnings back in 1948, when Helmut Brass ventured to the then South-West Africa in his black Hudson car, selling the company’s foundation Autolite batteries.
It did not take long for the company to commence business in their first branch in Stübel Street in Windhoek. Backed by a vision and focus on two major retail lines – CYcle and MOTor parts – the business flourished. In 1968, CYMOT then moved to the new premises in Tal Street.
Shortly thereafter, Claus Theissen joined CYMOT as the assistant manager, eventually acquiring 50% of the shares in 1976. With his fresh perspective and efforts, he managed CYMOT for several years, laying a solid foundation. During October 1986, he flew to Cape Town to negotiate the complete acquisition of the company, ensuring he could steer CYMOT in the best direction and as a wholly Namibian-owned company. This driving force continues to fuel the company’s expansion to this very day. Today, CYMOT boasts a workforce of over 500 employees and operates 18 branches nationwide, including a branch in Angola.
Claus, with a wry smile recounts the very tough negotiations that were based around the Namibian ownership of CYMOT and said, “Once we had cleared all that out of the way, the path was opened for our dream to become a reality.”
His son, Axel, further developed CYMOT’s offerings by introducing a division for automotive refinishing products and supplies, along with a comprehensive range of camping, outdoor and 4×4 equipment, protective clothing and tools and equipment. CYMOT’s diverse spectrum caters effectively to the varied markets they currently serve.
Approximately 3 000 loyal customers attended a well organised event to celebrate 75 years of unbridled success. The festival atmosphere of the two-day show was a testament to the company’s family feel with strong customer relations. Along with the suppliers, the company’s expert staff manned the stands and show goers enjoyed great food, along with refreshing soft drinks and famous Namibian beers.
It turned out to be something to be remembered for all concerned, especially for the company’s longest serving member, Jochen Stoermer who mingled alongside the driving force of the Cymot group, Claus Theissen. They engaged with all the international company directors who had flown in from around the globe to congratulate the CYMOT team.
CYMOT has become a standout operation in Namibia and Angola, emerging as industry leaders that host a conglomeration of brands that CYMOT represent and offer in this diverse marketplace.
The closing gala event was hosted by the current CEO, Ralph Ellinger, with suppliers and company staff finally having the opportunity to celebrate the company’s most successful trade show ever – in a big way. Boy oh boy does this family business know how to party and enjoy the moment well into the wee hours of the night!
Story by: Ian Groat
Pics by: Ian Groat
