Over the past few years, I’ve watched plenty of change across the industries we work in. Some businesses are busy and growing; others are watching spending closely, holding onto machinery longer or taking more time before committing to new equipment.
Running LSL has taught me a lot about adapting, making difficult decisions and staying focused on what matters. Whatever is happening in the wider economy, the wheels still need to turn - and our customers still need us to deliver.
Keep it lean. Keep it consistent.
Coming from a varied background, I've learnt that running a successful business isn't just about what you sell. It's about understanding your customers, working with good people and standing behind what you deliver. Following through and doing the job properly might sound simple, but those everyday habits build trust over time.
I focus on the business side of LSL while Jono leads our technical operations. We bring different strengths to the table, and I’ve seen how important both are: sound decisions behind the scenes help our team deliver practical, reliable support in the field.
I see the same thinking applying to machinery. Maintenance deserves a place in the budget, especially when you’re asking equipment to work for longer.
Reliability still matters
One positive I keep seeing is how well the Groeneveld-BEKA systems we service continue to perform. Our team sees them working year after year, and customers still specifically ask for Groeneveld-BEKA when fitting out machinery.
When spending is under scrutiny, that confidence matters. From the conversations I have with customers, I know they want to understand what they’re buying, how it will be maintained and who will answer the phone when it needs attention.
A good system needs a good installation
One thing I've learnt from working alongside our certified Groeneveld-BEKA technicians is that an automatic lubrication system is only as good as its installation. Understanding the machinery, finding the correct lubrication points, interpreting the manufacturer’s requirements and calculating the right grease delivery are all essential. It’s not simply a matter of mounting a pump and running a few hoses.
The technician also needs to select and set up suitable metering points, route and protect lines properly, read machinery schematics where needed and test that lubricant actually reaches the right places. Every machine has its own challenges; experience matters when making practical on-site decisions without compromising how the system should work.
You can learn more about our automatic lubrication system installation process, including how we design, fit and calibrate systems to suit different machinery.
7 questions worth asking before you buy
We get calls from people whose lubrication systems have stopped working and who are struggling to find parts or someone who can help. I know how stressful that can be when the machinery needs to be back at work.
There are plenty of products on the market at different price points. Based on what I’ve seen at LSL, these are the seven questions I’d encourage any machinery owner or fleet manager to ask before choosing a system or an installer:
1. Who is actually installing your system?
Are the technicians trained and experienced in automatic lubrication systems? If another contractor is doing the installation, who takes responsibility for the workmanship and ongoing support?
How we do it at LSL
Our installations are carried out by our own certified Groeneveld-BEKA technicians. Customers know who is responsible for their system and who to contact afterwards.
2. Do they understand your machinery?
Can they identify the lubrication points, interpret manufacturer information and schematics, calculate the required lubricant delivery, select suitable metering points and correctly configure and test the system?
How we do it at LSL
Jono leads our technical operations, working with our certified technicians to ensure systems are designed and installed to suit the machinery and its working conditions.
3. Can you get replacement parts locally?
Are suitable parts readily available, or might you face a long wait for components from overseas?
How we do it at LSL
We stock a range of genuine Groeneveld-BEKA parts and can help identify the components needed for the systems we support.
4. Who provides servicing and technical support?
Can someone diagnose faults, repair the system and answer technical questions after installation? Where are they based?
How we do it at LSL
Based in Christchurch, our own technicians provide servicing, fault diagnosis, repairs and technical support throughout the South Island. Customers can speak directly with a team that knows the systems we supply and install.
5. What warranties and insurance are in place?
Ask what is covered by the product warranty, what warranty applies to installation workmanship, and whether the installer holds appropriate public liability insurance.
How we do it at LSL
We stand behind our installations with a 12-month workmanship warranty. Our Groeneveld-BEKA systems also come with manufacturer warranty cover, subject to the applicable terms and conditions. We carry public liability insurance and are happy to explain the warranty coverage for your particular system.
6. How quickly can you get support if something goes wrong?
If your lubrication system stops working, who can you call? Is technical support readily available, and how quickly can someone assess the problem and help get your machinery back to work?
How we do it at LSL
We understand that downtime costs money. Our team provides technical support, fault diagnosis and repairs throughout the South Island. We work with our customers to identify the problem, check parts availability and find the quickest practical solution to get their system working again.
If your pump needs workshop attention, you can also read about our pump repair service.
7. Will they show you how the system works?
Does your supplier take the time to explain how your automatic lubrication system operates? Do you and your operators know what to check, how to recognise warning signs and what basic maintenance is required?
How we do it at LSL
We believe customers should understand their lubrication systems, not just have one fitted. Our technicians explain how the system operates, what to check and how to recognise potential problems early, helping operators keep their machinery running reliably.
For me, the purchase price is only part of the decision. Just as important is knowing you can keep the system working throughout its life.
Running LSL has taught me that good products, good people and reliable support make all the difference. That's what Jono and I continue to focus on at LSL, doing the job properly, standing behind our work and building lasting relationships with our customers.
If you're considering an automatic lubrication system or need support with an existing one, we're always happy to have a conversation about what you need. You can get in touch with our team or request a quote.
Managing Director | LSL Lubrication Solutions