Xpert Window Tinting & Signage have got you covered
Xpert Window Tinting & Signage have recently moved to 4/8 Kellow Place in the Wiri Business District. WiriLink sat down with Owner Alan Poole, and chatted about how long he’s been in business, how he’s expanded and what the future holds.
When Alan launched Xpert Window Tinting & Signage in 2012, he already knew what he wanted to do differently. After years learning the craft from the ground up, starting as a teenager tinting car windows – he saw how many companies were falling short.
“I always knew I could do it better. Better quality, better pricing, better service, and making sure my guys were happy. If they’re happy, they’ll do great work.”
Within a few years, he was managing staff and running jobs himself, while learning every aspect of the trade.
“My old boss didn’t even know how to tint, he just owned the business. That’s when I realised, if he can do it, I can definitely do it.”
His perfectionism and attention to detail, turned out to be key strengths. Tinting requires precision – accurate measurements, clean environments, and a steady hand.
“It’s a great job as I can be a bit OCD. I like to get the job done and make sure customers are happy.”
Like most small business owners, Alan’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Staffing has been one of the biggest.
“You go through your ups and downs like any business. “It’s hard to find people who want to stick around and learn. Tinting takes years to master—there’s no quick course.”
To keep things running smoothly, Alan focuses on creating a supportive work environment.
“If my team are happy, I’m happy. “We pay them well, make sure they’ve got what they need, and I treat them like family.”
Two of his long-term staff members even relocated from the Philippines, with Alan helping them and their families settle in New Zealand.
“They’ve been amazing—reliable, skilled, loyal. I couldn’t do it without them.”
That people-first approach carried Xpert Window Tinting & Signage through the COVID years when the business had to shut down temporarily. Alan made sure his staff were still paid full wages.
“The government subsidy helped, but I always plan for the worst-case scenario. If they’re happy and secure, then we can bounce back stronger.”
And bounce back they did. Once restrictions lifted, demand for home tinting surged as homeowners sought privacy and protection from heat while working remotely.
Xpert Window Tinting & Signage relocated from its long-time base in Takanini to Wiri after their previous landlord announced plans to renovate. Alan feels the move was the best decision he could have made.
“The location’s great – close to our trade partners, easy motorway access, and close to Manukau so customers can drop their cars off and we can take them to the mall or train station if they need.”
A big part of Alan’s success lies in his commitment to straightforward service. All prices are clearly displayed at the workshop and on their website.
“There’s no mucking around, no hidden fees. What you see is what you get. A lot of companies will change prices depending on the customer or the car. We don’t do that.”
Each tint job is still done by hand – measured, cut, and fitted with precision.
“We clean the glass, apply a slip solution, squeegee it smooth, and custom trim everything so there are no gaps. It looks factory fitted.”
The business now runs a roughly even split between vehicles and buildings, as more customers realise tinting can be an alternative to blinds.
“With blinds, you shut out all the light. Tints give you privacy, cut heat and glare, and still let you enjoy the view.”
The future looks bright for Xpert Window Tinting & Signage, with Alan focused on growing the company.
“If we can reach $3 million in sales and expand across New Zealand with more vans and staff, that’d be amazing” says Alan.
He’s already taking steps in that direction, recently starting to import his own film directly from the United States to cut costs and even supply competitors.
“We wanted to keep our overheads down and pass those savings on to customers. Then other companies started asking if they could buy from us, so now we’re doing that too.”
Reflecting on the past 13 years, Alan’s proudest achievement is simple.
“Starting from nothing and getting to where we are now. We’re nearly hitting a million dollars a year in sales, and I’ve got a great team. It’s hard work, but when you see the results, it’s worth it.”
If you want to know more about Xpert Window Tinting & Signage check out their website https://xperttinting.co.nz/, email ad***@*************co.nz or call 0800 448 544.
Let’s Grow Wiri Together
Whether you're a local business, manufacturer, or community partner, the Wiri Business Association is here to support your growth. Stay connected, collaborate, and make your voice heard.
Contact Us