There’s something so reassuring about dealing with a Durban family business that’s over 50 years old. When you hand over a family heirloom for re-upholstering, trust is everything, writes Anne Schauffer.
It all began with Ben Narotam, who founded Benze in 1970. When you step through the door of Benze in Mayville, you’ll find him still at the helm, still with the same values of impeccable service and quality workmanship.
He’s known as the “Upholstery Whisperer”, and you’ll soon see why. Decades of experience means you’ll get a straightforward opinion, a fair quote, and work which goes beyond your expectation.
As a family business, Ben’s wife, Budds Narotam, oversees the upholstery and carpet cleaning arm of the business.
But no matter which sector of the business, the family prides themselves on two key aspects: building lasting relationships, and their client-focused approach. Clients return time and time again because they know beyond any doubt, that the Benze team is fully committed to first-rate quality – with at least 70% of their new business coming from referrals.
When it comes to upholstery, nothing speaks louder than “before” and “after” images of chairs, couches, and more. For the Benze team, their biggest reward is that look of astonishment, relief, pleasure and gratitude when a treasured heirloom or loved piece is given a new lease on life. As Ben says, “I’m totally driven by passion. I’m determined that each client will receive the best service possible, and that is our motto.”
Upholstery and restoration is highly skilled work, carried out by experienced craftsmen who’ve not only been doing this for decades – but who take immense pride in their work. Over the years, staff arrived from all walks of life, and learnt their trade the Benze way.
Benze offer a wide range of South African fabrics from top fabric houses, but they don’t simply recover your furniture. Re–upholstering involves everything from repairs to joints and structural damage, to stripping, replacing webbing, springs and padding.
Ben Narotam pointed out their Duco work: “We can revive a scratched surface, or paint and colour-match any furniture. We’ve even given wooden furniture a young, contemporary colour, which includes sanding, painting then upholstering the chairs.”
It feels good to deal with a family business. There’s a sense of continuity, that personal touch. And after 50 years Ben still takes great pride in ensuring the Benze reputation stays that way.