The Evolution of the O’Brien and Laser Network: A Trusted Service Supplier in Electrical and Plumbing

Founded in 1983 as a small electrical contracting business in Auckland, New Zealand, the O’Brien and Laser Network has since evolved into the largest national network in the electrical and plumbing industries across New Zealand and Australia. 

What began as a local venture by two electricians, Peter Bassett and David Clemmett, has grown into a trans-Tasman Network.

Humble Beginnings in New Zealand

The Laser journey began with two business owners who, after successfully building their standalone electrical business known as Laser Electrical in West Auckland, attended a business breakfast that would change the course of their company’s future. 

It was here they learned about franchising and encouraged by this idea, they saw an opportunity to expand their business model beyond Auckland into other towns and cities in New Zealand. 

In 1999, they established the Laser Franchise Group. From its inception, Laser was focused on building relationships with like-minded business owners, a hallmark that remains central to its success today. Ashley Clemmett, Head of Commercial & Systems for O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing, said: 

“In those early days, Pete and Dave literally went around the country, door-knocking the best electrical business they could find in every major town and inviting them to join their fledgling network.”

This commitment to forging strong, value-driven partnerships helped them grow quickly. Within just a few years, Laser had 20 Members across New Zealand, with many of those original Members still part of the Network today.

Expansion into Australia

By 2004, Laser was ready to take on a new challenge: expanding into Australia. Despite having a strong presence in New Zealand, the team knew they needed local expertise to replicate their success across the Tasman. 

Enter Steve Keil, who had previously run his own electrical contracting business and was at that time a senior manager for a major electrical wholesaler in Australia. Steve was approached to help spearhead the Australian expansion, and like many of the early Laser Members, he took a leap of faith. Ashley said:

“Steve basically did what Pete and Dave had done — he started with an innovative business, launched the franchise operations in Australia, and began building relationships with potential Members.” 

It didn’t take long before electrician and businessman Paul Harty in Greensborough, Victoria became their first Australian Member, famously stating: 

“Sounds dangerous. Count me in!” 

From that point, the Laser Network expanded rapidly in Australia, driven by strong partnerships with key suppliers like Lawrence & Hanson, who could see the success the group had achieved in NZ and believed in the potential of the Laser Network in Australia.

While Laser originally focused on electrical services, the demand for a similar model in plumbing soon became clear. Recognising the similarity in operations between the two trades, Laser launched their plumbing Network in 2006.

A Legacy of Innovation

Throughout its history, Laser has been committed to providing its Members with many of the tools they need to succeed. For example, in the late 90s and into the early 2000’s, Laser Electrical had been developing some of the industry’s earliest quoting software, building its own systems when none were suitable for the Laser Network on the market. 

By 2012, Laser had transitioned to more advanced software solutions, partnering with companies like Simpro Software, Xero, and Google Workspace to provide Members with top-tier cloud-based tools and systems for managing their businesses.

This focus on innovation has helped Laser maintain its position as one of the leaders in the electrical and plumbing industries, providing Members with resources while staying true to its core values of partnership and support.

Acquisition by O'Brien and Continued Success

In 2018, after years of steady growth, Laser was acquired in Australia by O'Brien, a well-established vehicle glass and glazing company.

The acquisition was a natural progression for both companies. Laser’s co-founder, David, had retired, and Peter’s passing had left the business looking for new ownership. O'Brien was looking for a reputable, established company to expand into new services, and Laser fit the bill perfectly.

The acquisition provided Laser with the resources to continue its strong presence while ensuring the company remained in capable hands. The Member businesses within the Network have continued to thrive.

Today, the Network continues to operate across both Australia and New Zealand under both the O’Brien and Laser brands,  as local experts making it easy in both the electrical and plumbing sectors.

Join a Network of Excellence

For business owners considering joining the O’Brien Network, the company’s long-standing presence and trusted reputation make it an attractive proposition. Ashley said:

“For prospective Members, the value lies in the size of the network and increased opportunities for collaboration and support. The more people involved, the greater the collective intelligence within the group. Think of it as 100 people being collectively smarter than just one. This means that within the Network, someone likely has the answer to any question you might have. By joining, you can learn from others’ experiences, avoid pitfalls, and receive valuable support and guidance.”

As O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing continues to broaden their Network, the focus remains on providing Members with the support, tools, and opportunities to grow. If you are looking for a Network that values quality, innovation, and lasting relationships, O’Brien is the perfect fit.

Benefits for Businesses Joining the O’Brien and Laser Network

For independent electrical and plumbing businesses, joining the O’Brien Network offers numerous benefits. From leveraging a nationally recognised brand to accessing cutting-edge technology and benefiting from the collective experience of the Network, the opportunities are significant. 

The combination of Laser’s long-standing reputation and O’Brien’s resources has created a platform for growth and innovation, making it an attractive proposition for prospective Members looking to take their businesses to the next level. Ashley said:

“One of the most rewarding aspects of this business is witnessing the growth and success of our Members. We’ve seen many businesses transition to second-generation family members or even employee-owned companies. It’s incredibly satisfying to know that we’ve played a role in helping these business owners improve their lives and achieve their goals. Seeing them succeed, provide for their families, and enjoy a better quality of life is truly fulfilling.”

As O’Brien continues to welcome new Members, the Network’s potential for collaboration, support, and success only grows stronger. Ashley said:

“We’ve gone from strength to strength, and I believe our future is incredibly bright. Despite the Network having now been around for 20 years in Australia, it feels like we’re just getting started. We have numerous opportunities ahead, including exciting projects we announced at the recent annual Member Conference event. 

Additionally, we’re welcoming new team members and introducing innovative services that will enhance our Members’ business offerings. This is what truly excites me about our future. My experience with the transition from Laser to O’Brien’s ownership highlights the value of additional support, which we’ve been able to provide through our integration with O'Brien.”

For businesses ready to grow, the future with O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing looks brighter than ever.