Ray White Bishopdale and Strowan have taken the leap into sustainability, converting their property management vehicle fleet to 100 per cent electric, turning yellow into the new green.
Ray White Bishopdale and Strowan franchise owners Barry and Karen Ellis recognised they could add value to their community by taking this step in supporting not only the environment around them but also do their bit with the growing concerns around climate change. In January they decided that this was the year to make the move to electric and lead by example.
“Since the beginning of the year we’ve completed an entire overhaul of our business, looking at our purchasing decisions, the way we deliver our services and actively taking steps to minimise our carbon footprint,” says Barry.
“We’re really proud of the fact we’re the only property management company in New Zealand with 100 percent electric vehicles and we are hoping to continue on a greener path, one that will inspire other Canterbury businesses to join us.” added Bary.
Electric vehicles are not cheap, but Barry and Karen believe the long-term investment is for the good of the region, and are putting their community ahead of the cost outlay.
Another significant step for Ray White Bishopdale and Strowan has been their first solar-powered real estate signage which they will use outside of listed properties.
This follows on from moving to reusable signs made from metal and timber – meaning they no longer use plastic corflutes that are not sustainable.
“This is just another step in looking after our environment and committing by taking action to lead the way in protecting our environment for the future,” they said.
Zac Snelling, Head of Property Management, Ray White New Zealand said, “It’s absolutely fantastic to see our Bishopdale and Strowan offices make this kind of sustainable investment, providing benefits for both the offices and their surrounding communities. Many offices have been making positive steps in this area for some time, e.g. moving to paperless systems and looking at how our processes can become more eco-friendly etc, however, it’s impressive to see such a significant commitment being made. We are very proud of our Bishopdale and Strowan business leaders and the message they are sending to their community.”
Barry and Karen’s staff and clients love the new look of the electric cars, they are a bold approach to this important issue, sending a clear message that “We’re not like other real estate companies, and this is just another example of how we differentiate ourselves.”
Watch this short video the property management team have put together sharing what it’s like to drive an electric vehicle, and what the change has been like for them. Click here to watch.