OEM Audio joins Consumer Trusted ranks

Paul started the business after nearly reversing into someone in his driveway. The near miss prompted him to look for a reasonably priced reversing camera, but after doing his research Paul found the cameras on offer disappointing.

In 2008, after realising there was a gap in the market, Paul decided to start supplying his own cameras. He tested 10 prototypes, considered five different manufacturers, and spent countless hours on research and development. Since then, the business – OEM Audio – has gone from strength to strength, and now also offers car multimedia stereos and EV Power charging products to many new and used car dealers for EV and audio products. OEM Audio recently partnered with Meridian to supply charging cables to its customers with EVs.

“When I think about how I want to run my business, it’s all about finding great products with low failure rates, offering fantastic customer service and pricing products reasonably. I think to myself, what would Fisher and Paykel do? Then I do the opposite. That’s an example of a company that refuses to fix a product after multiple breaks,” says Paul.

OEM Audio is genuinely family-run – Paul’s wife Sonya heads up operations and keeps the place running smoothly, while his son manages reception. They are all thrilled to have achieved Consumer Trusted accreditation status.

A key component of the Consumer Trusted assessment is fulfilling customer experience expectations. Over 3 weeks in October 2022, Consumer asked eight mystery shoppers to covertly call OEM Audio to enquire about its services and a variety of its products. The shoppers were impressed – OEM Audio scored 97% for its customer service, speaking volumes about the level of service it provides. In addition, a Consumer Trusted auditor interviewed staff and observed customer interactions as part of an onsite assessment.

“Our staff are fantastic. I genuinely think we have the best audio technicians in the country, and top-notch repairers and tinkerers. All our employees are empowered to help our customers. Our original team has only grown bigger; I’m proud of the working environment we have,” says Paul.

While stellar customer service and great product offerings remain a priority, Paul is in the final stages of developing a new product – a portable EV charger that is designed and assembled in New Zealand. Working with a design team in Christchurch, Paul has created a product that is robust, water resistant and meets the needs of EV drivers.

Speaking of the business, Paul says “I don’t think I’m the world’s best businessman, but I have a lot of friends.”

Friends who clearly appreciate what OEM Audio does.

OEM Audio achieved the Consumer Trusted tick in September 2023. The accreditation is given to businesses that fulfil 11 key principles, including exceptional customer service, fair contract terms, accurate advertising and much more. In essence, Consumer Trusted businesses go above and beyond for their customers.

About Consumer Trusted

We created the Consumer Trusted accreditation to help you choose retail and service providers you can trust.

Our programme also aims to assist businesses in meeting their obligations under the law, raising their standards for operations and customer service, and celebrating exceptional service.

Find out more about our Consumer Trusted programme.