The year is 1985. We are the World was number one on the Australian singles chart, Allan Border continued his reign as captain of the cricket team and Back to the Future drew massive crowds of moviegoers countrywide.  

As for Chris Ferguson, he was busy applying for a warehouse position at TLE Electrical. Even then, he sensed this was the beginning of a long-term career.  

“As it turned out, I was right. Within five years I was promoted to manager – well before I was truly ready, but I seized the opportunity with both hands,” says Chris, who had a dream to one day run his own electrical wholesale business. Eighteen years later, that dream became a reality when he launched PowerPlus Lighting & Electrical Suppliers in Wagga Wagga, NSW, with Chris Kelly.  

The Gemcell effect 

It was now 2003, and while Allan Border might have retired a few years back, PowerPlus was only just getting started. Within a year, the business successfully joined Gemcell, enabling them to secure better deals with their suppliers. 

“That gave us a major advantage,” says Chris. “While healthy competition is a good thing – because it pushes everyone to maintain a high standard of service – Wagga Wagga has an estimated population of 69,000 and within the local electrical industry, customers have six stores to choose from.

We are the only independent among them, which means we can offer deep community knowledge, tailored service, faster decision-making, genuine loyalty and strong customer relationships.” 

And that right there forms the very core of PowerPlus Lighting & Electrical Suppliers – understanding the customers’ needs and offering them a rock-solid solution every time.  

“When customers know you’re likely to have the stock that can get them out of a bind, it builds real trust,” adds Chris. “Combine that with having the right team – friendly, reliable and knowledgeable – and you’ve got the heart of our business in a nutshell.” 

Another crucial part of PowerPlus is the suppliers, and the team has worked hard to build strong, lasting relationships with many of them. 

“This plays a major role in helping us deliver exceptional service,” adds Chris. “So we show loyalty to our suppliers – the same loyalty we aim to earn from our customers.” 

Family ties in electrical wholesale

Fast forward to today and Chris has now been in the electrical wholesale industry for 40 years. While his original business partner, Chris Kelly, has since retired, Toby Ferguson, Daryl Read and Chris himself proudly continue as directors of the business. 

PowerPlus Lighting & Electrical Suppliers has also grown into a family business, with Chris’ daughter Terri being involved since 2003 and his son Toby on board for the past 20 years. And while some people say working with family can be tough, Chris says it works for them.  “We each bring different strengths to the table, we’re honest with one another, and we share the same goal – that combination makes the business stronger.” Warehouse Manager, Neale, recently marked 12 years with the business, and Counter Sales team Wayne and Brayden have each been part of the team for three years. 

Like the team, the business’ customer base has also remained consistent over the years.  

“We serve a balanced mix of commercial, industrial, and residential clients,” says Chris. “Our regular customers value our reliability, fast turnaround, strong product knowledge, and the fact that we usually have the stock they need ready to go. But we’re quick to invest in products when needed too, like our two purpose-built cable trailers to help customers when cable lengths are unknown. This saves them time and reduces stress on-site.  

“We also offer access to a hydraulic crimping tool for up to 400mm, which is a huge help for contractors who don’t have one. On top of that, we’re available 24/7, so if our customers need to work after hours, we make sure we’re there to back them up.” 

The bottom line? PowerPlus Lighting & Electrical Suppliers treats people how they like to be treated – with honesty, reliability and a deep devotion to the community around them. They’re also not ones to rest on their laurels, and are always aiming to improve, whether that means expanding into new product areas or growing the team. Over the next couple of years, they might also dive into new regions, while always making the conscious effort to buy local wherever possible. 

“We’re deeply aware of the challenges faced by people in our community and regularly support individuals and local initiatives,” says Chris. “Giving back to the community that supports us is something we strongly believe in and it’s absolutely essential. Local businesses keep money circulating within the community, create employment, and offer personalised service that large corporations often can’t match. 

“Simply put, we genuinely love what we do and with us, you’re never just a number – no matter what the next 40 years bring, that will never change.”