TAKING the lead out of more than 100 stores in the Eastern Cape with regard to outstanding customer service, is Despatch SUPERSPAR, which was named the Store of the Year.
This prestige award was handed to Paul Barnes, owner of Despatch SUPERSPAR at the SPAR Eastern Cape awards ceremony held at The Boardwalk Casino in Port Elizabeth.
“The decrease in the economy of South Africa and various competitors around us as well as the drought and inflation, are some of the biggest challenges of any retail store nowadays,” said Barnes, who during 2011 won the SPAR of the Year before his store became a SUPERSPAR during 2013.
“We always strive to be the best at all times with everything that we are involved in.
“This award however shows the residents of Despatch and Uitenhage that they don’t have to drive all the way to Port Elizabeth to find a quality retail store for their grocery needs.”
This award was also won by Sunridge SUPERSPAR in 2007 as well as in 2009 when Paul was involved with them.
The local retail store has established an in-store e-Learning Centre, run by a permanently employed co-ordinator who presents about 30 different modules of upskilling to all staff. This is to continuously improve on excellent customer service.
“I also ensure that I have regular conversations with all staff members in order to find our what their specific needs and challenges are as well as what they require from me in order to continue improving customer service at Despatch SUPERSPAR.
“I want to thank all staff at Despatch SUPERSPAR as well as our customers for their loyal and continuous support throughout the years. Without them, it would definitely not have been possible to win this award twice,” said Barnes.
In short he said the winning recipe for a winning business is to “work your butt off, not compromise when it comes to excellent customer service, to know your customers and recognise your community.”
- HEILIE COMBRINCK