LJ Hooker ‘business as usual’

27 May 2008

LJ Hooker ‘business as usual’

Recent comments from other real estate companies suggesting that LJ Hooker is being taken over are false, LJ Hooker GM, Paul Slatin said today.

“In the recent case of the former LJ Hooker Nelson office, our franchise agreement in that office had ended and the former Principal, John Reid, entered into a joint venture with another, similar sized real estate agency. We wish John Reid well, but totally reject the suggestion that LJ Hooker offices are being taken over,” Mr Slatin said.

“LJ Hooker isn’t being taken over by anybody and there is no ‘end’ to LJ Hooker anywhere. It’s a pipe dream of Colin Wilson’s, and I would hope that the integrity of First National isn’t called into question over the Nelson claims.”

Mr Slatin said that LJ Hooker will continue to focus on its Nobody Does It Better communications and service. LJ Hooker is currently going through a significant re-imaging programme to freshen the brand, on property signs and shop front signs and all other touch points with real estate consumers throughout New Zealand and 12 other countries.

“Our re-imaging is both a sign of strength and a response to consumer feedback regarding the brand. Our image represents the core values of local knowledge, trust, friendliness and professionalism for which consumers hold us in high regard. Other programmes in 2008 that we will soon roll out include ServicePlus, a unique, value-added programme offering an extended service to sellers, buyers, landlords, tenants and others.

“When LJ Hooker makes public statements about local growth and consolidation, they will be accurate, respectful to all affected parties and show none of the nonsense elements seen in the media recently,” Mr Slatin said.

ENDS

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