Dimitrios Jim Krallidis’ family-run business, DSK Kitchens and Furniture, has been named as a finalist in this year’s Ethnic Business Awards. These awards recognise the outstanding accomplishments of migrant and Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Mr Krallidis tells The Greek Herald that he’s ‘very happy’ to be an award finalist, as it is a recognition of all his achievements ever since he arrived in Australia from the Greek island of Mytilini in 1969.
“When I arrived in Australia with my parents at 14 years of age, I was already in the trade because I worked in Greece as a furniture maker from the age of nine,” Mr Krallidis says.
“I didn’t know any English though, but I was hard working. Instead of going to clubs and playing poker, I was concentrating on cabinet making. I just wanted to do better.”
The 67-year-old business man quickly put his experience to good use and took a job at a Jewish-owned cabinet making business, where he went from foreman to general foreman to production manager within 10 years.
Later, Mr Krallidis moved into insulation work as a subcontractor for three years, followed by a successful business partnership with some friends. In 1992, he decided to start his own business with his wife and two sons, called DSK Kitchens and Furniture.
“Everything we do is custom made with individual designs. Most of our work incorporates kitchens, laundries, wardrobes and study rooms,” Mr Krallidis says proudly.
“We also have a factory with a fully computerised and operational system, as well as one of the most upgraded showrooms in Sydney.”
With such a successful building career under his belt, it’s no surprise then that Mr Krallidis has no plans to slow down any time soon.
“I’m a very proud Greek but I’m also a very proud Australian. I live and work here and I’m very happy to have achieved what I have together with my family. And I still have good strength and power to continue for years to come,” Mr Krallidis says.
The 32nd Ethnic Business Awards will be available to view on Facebook Live, SBS, NITV or Aurora. Date is To Be Confirmed.
