There’s been a lot of change at the branch recently – you must be delighted to win. We’ve just been through a management transition. Rob, our previous branch manager, was here for 10 years, and Jared [Hughes] took over just over eight weeks ago. Both are great branch managers and passionate retailers. I’ve only recently been promoted to deputy store manager myself. Of course, any change brings its challenges, but we’re blessed to have a bundle of experience among the more than 200 partners in the shop, and we’ve navigated the change really well. It’s a testament to the team, and the legacy of Rob, that we’ve continued to offer a great shopping experience.
What’s it like to be a retailer in Woodford? It’s a really pleasant place to shop and to work. There’s lots of green spaces, and a lovely customer base. Unlike more central London shops, we don’t really get the commuter trade. We’re predominantly a big trolley shop so we’re heavy at the weekend. Even though we’re just behind the high street, we’re a suburban branch so we’ve got a big car park. The store is actually a listed building, which also adds some nice character.
Is there anything specifically challenging about South Woodford compared with other stores you’ve worked at? Our e-commerce operation goes as far as Chelmsford, so we serve a big area. It’s a big 24-hour operation. We try to keep our cage congestion to a minimum, to keep the store neat and tidy and really present our best foot forward every day. Alongside that, our café is a hospitality destination for a lot of locals and we have a full service food operation, growing on demand alongside quite significant footfall at the weekends, so naturally the complexity is multi-layered. Spinning all the plates is the phrase I would use.
How has trade been now the heatwave is over? Hot weather is always advantageous. We’re performing OK over the summer period, given that it’s naturally quieter with people away on holidays. We’ve got some exciting new summer lines coming in to keep up demand. The new Ottolenghi ice cream range launched earlier this month, and we’ve been struggling to keep them available. It’s been really popular.
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Tesco comes in cheapest in Grocer 33 shop, beating Asda by 20p
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Waitrose South Woodford named best store in north east London area
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What is The Grocer 33 and how does it work?
Any other recent NPD that’s caught your eye? We’ve just launched a Chocolate and Pistachio Torte, which I’m excited about. On the whole it’s really encouraging times for innovation. Retail is always evolving, and you have to stay competitive in the marketplace.
What do you think is going to keep people coming to Waitrose? Our colleague service is our point of difference. Passionate partners who are proactive at offering a personalised service. Naturally, we have to still maintain great availability, continue to offer new product ranges and deliver the service people expect.
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