Patrick McLean: A Journey of Craftsmanship and Entrepreneurship

 My journey began in 1987 when I left school and took on my first job as a fruit picker. It was a simple start, but it instilled in me the values of hard work and perseverance. Little did I know, this would be the first step on a path that would lead me into a lifelong career of craftsmanship and entrepreneurship.

In 1988, I embarked on an apprenticeship in painting—a decision that would shape my professional life. As I learned the ropes, I discovered a deep passion for the trade. My hard work and dedication paid off in 1989 when I was recognized as the top apprentice in New Zealand in my second-year exam. This recognition was a pivotal moment, confirming that I was on the right path.

By 1991, I had earned my trade certificate qualification in painting and decorating. With a burning desire to forge my own path, I took a leap of faith and started my own business, P.M Painting. I poured my heart into the business, applying every skill and lesson I had learned. The following year,

I achieved my advanced trade certificate qualification, further solidifying my expertise and commitment to the trade.

For several years, P.M Painting thrived, and I gained invaluable experience as both a craftsman and a business owner. However, in 1998, I decided it was time for a change. I sold my painting business and joined my family in the canvas and PVC industry. This was a significant shift, introducing me to new challenges and the dynamics of running a family business. It was a period of growth and learning that broadened my entrepreneurial perspective.

After several successful years, we sold our family business in 2005, and I moved to Warkworth. I returned to painting for a brief stint of nine months, reconnecting with the hands-on work I had always loved while I pondered my next big move. That move came in 2006 when I founded Tradextra with just one team member. The vision was clear: to provide comprehensive solutions for tradespeople, backed by technical knowledge and an extensive range of innovative products.

Tradextra grew steadily over the years, driven by our commitment to quality and customer service. In 2016, I sold Tradehire, scaffold division, to Rod McLean, a decision that allowed me to channel my full energy into expanding Tradextra. Our growth trajectory continued, and by 2023, I had brought on board my two sons Fearnley and Taylor and my sales manager, Clayton, selling each of them 10% of the shares. This was not just a business move but a strategic step to align with partners who shared our vision for the future.

The latest chapter in Tradextra’s journey began in 2024 with the launch of “Operation Everest.” We are opening a new warehouse and shop in the North Shore, expanding our team to 23 members. This endeavour was not just about scaling our operations; it was a culmination of 28 years of experience in the painting and coating industry. It’s this extensive background that has been the driving force behind our commitment to excellence and innovation. My journey from a young apprentice to a seasoned industry leader has been one of constant learning and evolution, always striving to deliver the best for our customers and our team.

Tradextra stands today not just as a business, but as a testament to the values and expertise that have guided my career for nearly three decades. With each new challenge, I am reminded of the early days—of the lessons learned, the awards won, and the businesses built. As we continue to grow, these experiences remain at the heart of everything we do, pushing us forward into the future.