How Georgia from Sutton Farm Food is Doing good together
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Published 2 Oct 2024 in Colleagues
As we continue to celebrate our new Doing Good Together Fund, we’re recognising managers who have forged amazing partnerships within their local communities. Today we’re speaking to Georgia Fensome, Store Manager at Shrewsbury Sutton Farm.
Q: Georgia, I believe you have a team of furry locals who stop by your store every day. Tell us more..
A: Yes, we have guide dogs in training in our store every day, multiple times a day. Although the team in store cannot contribute or help, it's nice to know we are part of the training for these dogs who will soon become an essential part of someone's life.
We have got to know the team of trainers who come in everyday to store walk with the dogs, which in turn helps us build that strong rapport with our customers. It's also nice to see some cute dogs in store everyday - for customers and colleagues!
Q: Are there any other community relationships you’ve established locally?
A: We have over the last year built up a really solid relationship with a nearby learning disabilities day centre. We have got to know their staff and service users really well. The group will come in everyday to practice their social and counting skills by interacting with our colleagues on the till. It's also great for us as we are getting a bunch of meal deal sales – a win-win! Similar to the guide dogs team, we have built up a lovely rapport with what are now loyal customers.
This opportunity arose as they were coming in here anyway but spending that extra bit of time with them really helps to build that relationship and loyalty. Also, it’s a great feeling when you know you've helped someone else. It’s only something small but it’s still very rewarding.
Celebrating the DGT launch!
Q: I can imagine it is! Are there any new partnerships in the pipeline for you and the team?
A: In terms of future plans, I have worked with the local church a couple of times by providing products for hampers at their fundraising nights. However, with the new Doing Good Together Fund I would love to be able to contribute something more to them.
I also have plans to volunteer at Shrewsbury Food Bank and have already begun building a rapport with the owner, Tammy. Although it is hard to get out of store currently or to provide colleagues to attend the food bank in person, we still donate food to them daily.
Hamper making for local communities
Q: Do you have any tips for ways managers can build connections at their sites?
Although I have only been a manager for roughly two years, I have found the easiest way to build that connection with your local community is knowing your customers well. They will tell you of struggles the local community is having. It's the customers and colleagues who are living in the area around your store that know your community best so listen to them and reach out in any way you can. Even if you’re not able to get out of the store to volunteer, you could offer a safe place in your store, like we have for the guide dogs and the day centre visitors, or direct them to the Doing Good Together Fund.
Dragonboat racing...
...& fundraising!
Find out more about the Doing Good Together Fund here and watch this space for more DGT managers’ stories.