Kim Woods knows how important Four Square stores are to their communities; often, they are the only supermarket available. Even though they have a smaller footprint, the stores are full of everyday essentials and provide a service customers love. Woods knows most of her customers by name.
Woods grew up in Christchurch with her parents and sister. Before working in FMCG, the store owner-operator worked as a logistics operator. She then moved into account management roles with Greggs, Fonterra, Novartis and JDE and did a stint in London as a PepsiCo rep.
These roles within FMCG were what helped grow her passion for the industry, and owning a supermarket was something she was interested in right from the beginning.
“I now proudly own the Netherby Four Square.”
Woods was approved to be an owner-operator five years ago but waited for the right opportunity to take over a store. Her transition into Netherby was incredibly quick - she talked to the previous owners on a Friday and had taken over by the Monday. She was, however, fortunate to have the previous owners stick around for five weeks, showing her the ropes before completely taking over.
Netherby has a fantastic team of 16, who go above and beyond for customers - especially in the last two years. They had no complaints. Woods said the group had taken restrictions in their stride, seamlessly dealing with masks, supply days, split shifts, staff shortages and social distancing in a small store.
Woods was interviewed just before mask mandates were removed - she can now rejoice, as the number one thing she was looking forward to was seeing the smiling faces of both customers and staff.
One challenge the store is facing, like many, is employing new staff. While incredibly grateful for her core team, Woods is finding it hard to fill open positions in a job market that is constantly changing.
“No day is the same when you own a supermarket. You are constantly multi-tasking and re-prioritising. Before you know it, the day is done, and you are planning the next one!”
There are too many products in Woods’ Four Square to pick a favourite, but she finds an Asian Laska Soup the perfect lunchtime snack and is always happy with something sugary.
Woods’ other half Scott has an agriculture business, so when not in the store, she can be found in her Red Band’s navigating a straight feed break for the cows - but only in the sunshine. Rest assured, Scott can be found unloading pallets when the store gets busy too.
“I am incredibly lucky to have a supportive family and other half that helps me do what I love every day. Their support over the last few years has been crucial.”
She encourages people with a can-do attitude, that are open-minded, adaptable and goal-orientated, to look into Four Square stores.
