What is the most successful idea you’ve ever tried out in your business?
The fruit and vegetable carts we introduced last year have been phenomenal. Customers told us they wanted more fresh fruit and vegetables so we listened and sales of them have gone up 453%.
What is the best advice you have received?
It was from a fellow retailer. He pushed me to re-develop my store and told me not to stand still and to constantly move forward. Also, Musgrave has a line that says, “think like a customer, act like a retailer”, which I think is great.
Who is your retail inspiration?
I could say Mark Zuckerberg for Facebook, but on a day-to-day practical basis it’s talking to other retailers that really makes a difference. They are the ones I learn most from.
What do you think is the biggest missed opportunity that independent retailers should cash in on?
Not adapting to the current climate of austerity. We need to change what we offer to show customers that independents can provide value too. A lot of retailers are missing out because they are doing what they always do.
What’s next for your business?
We are looking for another store. We want to expand and repeat the model we have got here. We have a few ideas for this store too: we are going to put micro LED lights under our bread and cake shelves; we have signed up for Musgrave’s online health & safety and food hygiene courses; we are trialling new products and our own toasties in our in-store bakery and we will motivate staff by introducing more targets and bonuses
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