Welcome to our latest partner feature!
Today we’re visiting Phillip in Rolleston, a relaxed satellite town just south of Christchurch.
Phillip came to NZ from China 20 years ago, making NZ’s southern city his home.
“I really love the lifestyle here. I’ve been with St. Pierre’s for over eight years, starting around the time my daughter was born. My first five years were at Riccarton, and now nearly four years in Rolleston. Some partners move shops a lot, but I’m happy with just two!”
Even still, Phillip has learned a lot about local customer bases and how to tailor the products his shop makes most.
“Rolleston is growing fast. A lot of people moving here work very hard, so jumbo-sized packs are very popular! And we mostly sell chicken, not so much salmon and tuna. It’s a different market to Christchurch.”
Phillip believes in the power of community engagement and a strong team to build a successful shop.
“Rolleston is growing, but it still has a small-town feel. The schools are well respected and focal points for the community. We work with the schools a lot, supplying sushi vouchers for prizegiving. Associating St. Pierre’s with success creates a positive image in the community.
We also do intro to sushi classes at school. We take fresh ingredients from the shop, and get the kids to try rolling their own. We talk about other sushi like nigiri and how to eat it. Kids love the experience, then bring their parents to the shop. We also have a stall at school fairs – last time we sold out in 30 minutes! We had to make three deliveries.
Getting kids used to sushi helps the shop succeed now, and good memories as kids make them sushi lovers for life. Engaging with schools is a winner for everyone.”
And of course, looking after people also includes the shop staff!
“I want to help our staff get their bonuses, giving them tips what they need to do each day. I encourage staff to learn more skills, organising a pay rise once they prove they’ve learned. Skills lead to confidence leads to motivation.”
“All our team members are locals, and lots are mums with kids. They have great life experience, communication and team work. Some can only do limited hours, but everyone understands each other’s situations, so we cover for each other. Teamwork keeps the shop going.”
“I love to celebrate milestones too. Each year we mark the shop anniversary with free four-piece packs and stickers for the kids, and we give staff chocolates and fruit at Christmas. Staff and customers love little extras.”
Phillip’s team in a rare quiet moment!
Phillip’s unique approach to team building has delivered – shop sales are consistently in the top three nationwide. Phillip is happy with the partnership position, but is still looking ahead.
“The money and work content as partner is great. I love putting time into community engagement and helping our people grow. We have several staff who are very keen to move up, and my challenge is training them to be future managers and partners. The company is growing fast and I’d love to see them succeed!”
Phillip is justifiably proud of his many achievements. At St. Pierre’s, we’re proud to have amazing people like him! We have a strong “people first” culture, supporting each other as we set challenging goals. Phillip’s unique approach to management which has taken him far – here’s to everyone across the St. Pierre’s Group aiming high!