COVER STORY

MEKR’S – taking stock

MEKR’S s.r.o is a Czech wholesaler of fasteners, anchor technology, hydraulic systems, and welding equipment – providing business services to a variety of industries including mechanical and electrical engineering, metallurgy, and the automotive industry.

B

ased in Úpice, MEKR’S has 40,000 fasteners in stock that comply with DIN, ISO and CSN standards, in a wide selection of diameters, materials, and surface finishes. It also supplies items made according to

customers’ drawings. Here Fastener + Fixing Magazine interviews Jan Melichar,

owner of MEKR’S s.r.o, to find out more about the Czech wholesaler and the company’s plans for the future.

Can you tell us about the history of MEKR’S – when the company was established and the key points in its development? “MEKR’S was established in 1994 as a small fastening material shop in Úpice. The first milestone for the company was when it started working with another Czech company, Metalvis s.r.o, providing us with new sales opportunities away from Ferona AS – the then dominant fastener distributor.

“ Every day we are taking small steps forward, to allow us to grow and offer more options and opportunities for our customers.”

40 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 88 July 2014 This saw us go through a period of expansion, moving to

larger and larger warehouse facilities, whilst at the same time expanding our product range. The next big milestone was the decision to start buying from

fastener suppliers in the European Union and the subsequent decision to import fastener materials from south east Asia. This decision helped us develop both in the Czech market and in foreign markets. Gradual investments followed to further continue the company's

development, including the launch of a new e-shop and the introduction of a Kanban service via barcode readers.”

Why should customers choose MEKR’S for fasteners and anchoring material? “There are a number of reasons why customers should choose MEKR’S. First of all, we have got a wide range of products in stock and we are constantly expanding that range, so that we can offer customers the highest possible level of service. Also, everyone working for the company treats our customers as individuals and strives to find joint solutions to various situations, ensuring mutual satisfaction. Thanks to our company's capabilities, we are also able to provide customers with high levels of customer service, whilst supporting our business partners in their growth. The company's main philosophy has always been to keep the widest possible range in stock, to maintain and constantly develop high-quality delivery services and customer care, and to ensure that we continuously supply high-quality fastening material. At MEKR’S we also remember that we won't achieve anything or be perceived as a successful overall player unless we work together with our suppliers and customers.”

What products can you offer customers and how do you ensure the quality of the product? “We can offer our customers a wide range of fastening material, from standard to customised items. Products include