Sharon's Convenience Store Report

Sharon Kane, newly promoted to area manager at Henderson Retail in Northern Ireland, reports on topsy turvy weather and getting to know her new store community.

Weather wise it has been a funny month for retailers in Northern Ireland.

Sharon Kane: community involvement

There have been times when we have experienced four seasons in one day. The weather has ranged from scorching sunshine to gale force winds to lashing rain and thunder and lightning. It has been challenging merchandising our seasonal sections to cope with all these variations.

However, we still have to ensure we are prepared and ready to offer all our customers everything they require no matter which way the weather turns. That means having the BBQs and charcoal available and the umbrellas, just in case. But, despite the rain, temperatures have remained quite high, and sales of salad products still continue to do well.

I’m still in the process of settling into my new role and getting to know everyone in my stores.

I thought it was tough remembering the names of 70 staff when I first went to Spar Cullybackey but trying to remember the names of everyone in 10 stores is impossible...thank goodness for name badges.

A few of my stores held fun days recently. Spar Kings Crescent, which is based in the heart of a housing estate and opposite a primary school, held a fun day on the last day of school. The event featured face painters, balloon modelling, a dancing competition for the children and prize draws. The shop was buzzing inside and out with excitement and activities, while the proceeds raised were donated to the local primary school.

On the same day, another of my stores held a birthday fun day to celebrate eight years since it opened. At this event customers were treated to free sandwiches, sweets and cakes - all thanks to our generous suppliers - plus a bouncy castle and police car for the kids to explore.

The events were extremely successful for the stores - everyone had a great day and the weather was extremely favourable.

At my previous store in Cullybackey we used to get involved with as many activities in the local community as possible. It is great to see that going on in the stores in my area. I am hoping there will be more to come. There is nothing better than giving something back to your local community and thanking people for their custom and support throughout the year.