Sharon’s convenience store report

January 1, 2010

Sharon Kane, area manager at Henderson Retail in Northern Ireland, reveals how the convenience stores she manages fared in the run up to Christmas.

Well that’s Christmas over for another year...the presents have been opened, the crackers pulled and the shop shelves emptied again. And it was great to get a couple of days off after the stress and panic of the build up to the big event.

All our stores were extremely busy during the Christmas period and sales were up on the previous year, despite intense competition from the larger supermarkets.

The weather probably played a part in generating great sales across the country because when the first signs of snow arrived people bought in bulk for fear of being snowed in.

In addition, difficult traveling conditions meant our convenience stores benefited further as many shoppers stayed close to home to shop. I don’t believe this was down to the weather alone, however. I’m certain it was also because of our great customer service and the extensive range our stores have on offer.

Christmas Eve was an extremely busy day and, with all hands on deck, it was great to see such team spirit in the stores.

At one of my forecourts, which has recently been refurbished, customers were queuing up the road to get in. The forecourt attendant was working overtime directing the flow of traffic in order to get customers in and out as quickly and efficiently as possible.

So another successful year all round and already we are planning ahead for next year by reviewing sales reports to ensure we get our orders right for Christmas 2010. And, while we have barely finished off the turkey, the Cadbury Creme Eggs are on the shelves and, needless to say, they are selling...

But before we start getting the Easter Bunnies out, it will be good to get back to normality for a wee while after the hustle and bustle of Christmas.

Happy New Year, Sharon Kane

Sharon Kane: team spirit at Christmas