Lin Guo was just a teenager when he boarded a plane bound for New Zealand from northern China in search of opportunity and a future career.
Little did he know that it would lead to a string of life-changing opportunities and a successful career in the supermarket industry.
Guo, who now owns PAK’nSAVE Māngere, began looking for work soon after he arrived in Auckland on his own more than 20 years ago. He lived with a homestay family in Howick while he attended high school and got his first part-time job at a local supermarket. From there, Foodstuffs and PAK’nSAVE opened doors he never imagined possible.
After joining PAK’nSAVE Henderson, Guo progressed through various roles, including management in seafood, bakery, produce, deli, and fresh foods. He did all this while completing a double major in Finance and Management at Massey University, balancing work, study and life through sheer determination and a passion for the job.
With mentoring and support, as well as hands-on experience in other stores such as New World Botany, he was encouraged to think bigger. His career has included owning several stores, earning national awards, and a commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.
At just 27, Guo became the owner of his first store, Four Square Ellerslie, where he trebled sales, increased customer numbers, and improved the customer shopping experience. Under his leadership, the store was awarded Foodstuffs North Island’s Store of the Year in 2017.
Ownership opportunities followed, including New World Newtown and New World Southmall, and now PAK’nSAVE Māngere. Some team members have remained with him since his first store. Today, his focus is on developing his people, supporting the community, and delivering for customers every day.
As an immigrant and non-native English speaker, he was also grateful to Foodstuffs and PAK’nSAVE for their trust, confidence, and opportunities to succeed. That philosophy shapes how he leads.
Beyond the store, Guo has deeply committed to community support, backing local schools, churches, food rescue organisations and social supermarkets. He also strongly supports his team in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, recognising its importance in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
His advice to others considering a career in the supermarket industry was to take responsibility, be proactive and keep learning.
