2020 will go down in history as the year when a global pandemic disrupted just about everything. In Australia, many businesses suffered, some went under, and nearly a thousand Australians died of Covid-19. However, it was not all ‘doom & gloom’ this year, and Thermal Mark Transport Refrigeration had a few highlights worthy of inclusion in this year-in-review recap.
Starting in the early part of the year, there were upgrades to our premises. The workshop building and office were refreshed and received new signage in June, and then dozens of LED lights and new skylights were installed within the ceiling of the workshop, which was completed in November. The new LEDs replaced banks of old fluorescent tubes and has made a massive difference in brightening up this important workspace, as well as cutting power consumption by more than 50%.
In June, the company adapted to the rising pandemic by implementing a suite of measures to make us a ‘Covid Safe’ business. Effective 1 July, our safety plan encompassed flexible working arrangements where possible, such as working from home and staggered shifts, physical and distance controls to protect staff and visitors at physical interaction points such as counters and service desks, along with providing staff and visitors with appropriate hygiene supplies such as hand soap, sanitiser, disinfectant wipes and gloves.
As part of improving the facilities in our head office, the driver’s room was extensively renovated. It now has very effective new air-conditioning, comfortable chairs, large-screen TV, and a fully automatic Lavazza coffee machine – all in a relaxed area where drivers can wait for Thermal Mark to complete servicing and repairs to their vehicle. The coffee machine in particular has proved to be a big hit with drivers (and our staff too).
In October, we welcomed the newest addition to the team, Karim El Temsah, who brings with him extensive parts-interpreting knowledge and professional experience in high-volume rapid parts supply for heavy and light machinery. He’s hit the ground running here and is a great fit for our ‘can do’ team culture.
With top temperatures continuing to break records in recent years, and the 2020/2021 summer forecast to be yet another scorcher, it’s more important than ever to ensure your truck’s refrigeration unit is up to the task – no matter how hot it gets outside. November saw us focus on ramping up for an increase in installations and last-minute servicing, before the really hot weather kicks in.
The team at Thermal Mark Transport Refrigeration thank you for your support throughout what turned out to be one of the most challenging years ever. We hope you have a safe and ‘chilled-out’ Christmas and holiday season, and we look forward to a successful and less stressful 2021 for all of us! Our holiday close-down is from C.O.B. Thursday 24 December, returning 8am Monday 4 January 2021. For emergency breakdown assistance during this time, please call 1800 826 390.