Need A Tool| KZN Future 50

Website: www.needatool.co.za

http://www.needatool.co.za/

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Need A Tool: Equipping KZN’s Builders, Makers and Fixers Since 1986

Need A Tool, a well-known family-run business in KwaZulu-Natal, began with a practical idea: provide good-quality equipment to people who need to get things done. Founded in 1986 by the late Bob Moore — a respected figure in the tool hire industry and one of the founding members of the Contractors Plant Hire Association (CPHA) — the business has become a trusted name for equipment hire in the province.

Bob Moore was a hands-on man with a sharp mind for mechanics and a no-nonsense approach to business. He believed in looking after equipment properly, helping customers find the right tool for the job, and treating people fairly. These values shaped Need A Tool from the very beginning and still guide the business today.

Family Roots and Forward Thinking

After Bob’s passing in 2023, his son Sean Moore stepped in to lead the company — a natural progression after years of working alongside his father. Under Sean’s guidance, Need A Tool continues to grow, with its head office in Pinetown and branches in Hillcrest and Salt Rock. The Salt Rock branch, which services the Dolphin Coast and surrounds, is managed by Sean’s son, Declan — marking the third generation of Moore family involvement.

From power tools and compressors to cherry pickers and scissor lifts, Need A Tool supplies a wide range of well-maintained equipment to contractors, businesses, and individuals alike. Its customers include local homeowners as well as large companies like Transnet, Toyota South Africa and Engen Refinery — all looking for dependable service and reliable equipment.

People Who Know Their Craft

Need A Tool’s success isn’t just about tools — it’s about the people who keep the wheels turning. With a team of 25 staff, many of whom have been with the business for more than 20 years, the company values experience and trust. Long-time team members like Customer Liaison Manager Walter Makhaye and Sales and Technical Manager Kudzai Huruva help keep customers coming back.

As the company expands, six new employees have joined the Salt Rock branch. In-house training ensures new team members build practical, hands-on knowledge — something that’s becoming increasingly rare, but remains essential in the hire and repair industry.

Steady Growth, Solid Support

Need A Tool has grown steadily over the decades — updating its fleet, investing in new technology, and maintaining long-standing relationships with key clients. What hasn’t changed is the company’s commitment to doing things properly. Whether it’s replacing ageing equipment, supporting staff development, or listening to what customers actually need, the approach remains refreshingly straightforward.

Local, Practical, Reliable

Need A Tool has been part of the KwaZulu-Natal business landscape for nearly 40 years. It’s served everyone from weekend DIYers to seasoned contractors — offering not only tools, but experience, advice and dependable service. As Sean and Declan Moore continue to steer the business into the future, Need A Tool remains grounded in the same values it started with: good people, good tools, and a practical approach to helping others get the job done.

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Image Credit: Supplied