Kilbirnie shop opening – from the manager!

READ AND WIN $50 VOUCHER GIVEAWAY! PLUS CHECK THE READER PRIZE WINNER FROM LAST TIME! DETAILS AT THE END.

At St Pierres, we’re proud to be a people-first company. We aim to create opportunities for our people to achieve their dreams, and the new Kilbirnie shop is just one example.

For many years, founding manager April was an integral part of the success of our Queensgate Mall shop before taking on the new challenge. She spoke passionately about what the Kilbirnie shop means to her – here’s her view on how it went!

The successful opening of the Kilbirnie store has been an unforgettable milestone, and honestly, one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. Stepping into this new chapter after my time at Queensgate, and taking on the massive challenge of launching two departments simultaneously, felt like a true test of everything I’ve learned. Seeing it all come together so beautifully has been incredibly rewarding.

​Of course, it wouldn’t have been possible without an amazing support network. First and foremost, a huge thank you to the incredible group of store managers who supported us through both staff training and the busy opening period: Ruby (Newtown), Supattra and Milly (Queensgate), Maria (Cable Car), Nok (Lambton), Masaki (Queensgate Kiosk), and Edith (Petone). Our simultaneous launch would not have gone so smoothly without their dedication.

A special shout-out goes to Alfred, our Bento Bowl Field Trainer, who travelled all the way from Auckland to stand by us.

Last but definitely not least, a massive thank you to my amazing team. Watching a group of individuals quickly unite into a strong, passionate family has been the most beautiful part of this journey. While our sales haven’t been as busy as initially expected just starting out, having such an outstanding team gives me total confidence that things will only get better and better.           

So many of our staff members have shown incredible responsibility and dedication, treating this shop as if it were their own. A special mention goes to my Assistant Manager, Jiajia, and Bento Bowl Manager, Max. With such a passionate and united team, I am confident that the Kilbirnie store will continue to thrive and achieve great things!

READ AND WIN!
Congratulations to Tracy Li from Nelson Richmond, who won her choice of one $50 WOOLWORTHS VOUCHER or a DOUBLE PASS MOVIE VOUCHER at Hoyts or Event Cinemas for her answer last time.

Hiroshi, Johnny and Alfred came to help from Auckland with the Kilbirnie opening. Thanks to everyone for helping Kilbirnie shop succeed!

This time we’re giving away the same prize.

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION:
Name four shops who supported the Kilbirnie opening through training staff and helping around opening day.

Entries close at 12 noon on Thursday 6 August 2026.

Please comment with your answer, your name and shop name.
Competition open to St Pierres staff only.