‘All in the family’ business proves a winner

Capalaba Park Shopping Centre’s Fresh Sensations has two families and two generations working hard to offer Redlands residents the ultimate greengrocer, butchery and fine foods experience.

Partners, John Nicoloau and Jim Mousikos, along with four and three sons respectively, all work in the business and with over 100 years of experience between them, it is not surprising they have taken out the Brisbane Produce Market Fresh Tastes Retailer of the Month for September.

John makes the trip to the Brisbane Produce Market every day and walks the selling floor to select only the best fruit and vegetables for his customers. Meanwhile, Jim is back at the store waiting to showcase John’s quality produce selections and making sure staff members are kept informed on the seasonal varieties.

John is particularly proud of the win considering the Brisbane Produce Market award is his area of expertise.

“Everyone has their areas of responsibility and I am proud that not only our quality produce but also our staff knowledge and customer service has been rated as one of the best,” Mr Nicoloau said.

Fresh Sensations underwent a serious makeover in 2007. The old store, Fruit Exchange, was completely revamped and re-named Fresh Sensations with an added butcher and deli. The store is now going from strength to strength.

Brisbane Produce Markets Fresh Tastes program is a Brisbane Markets initiative to encourage excellence in fresh produce retailing. Participating retailers are provided with point of sale materials, in-store competitions, e-newsletters, development sessions, promotional opportunities and mystery shopping. A mystery shopper visits their store twice throughout the year for the Retailer of the Month and Retailer of the Year awards.

More than 100 independent fruit and vegetable retailers throughout South-East Queensland participate in the Fresh Tastes program.

Brisbane Markets Marketing and Communications Manager, Ann-Marie Johansen said the Fresh Tastes program meant customers were the winners, with greengrocers like Fresh Sensations offered support to develop their staff’s customer service skills and their ability to supply the highest quality fruit and vegetables.

“By being part of the Fresh Tastes program our retailers demonstrate their commitment to excellence in produce, service and continual improvement which means a great shopping experience for their customers,” Ms Johansen said.

Fresh Sensations is located at Capalaba Park Shopping Centre, Corner of Mount Cotton and Redland Bay Roads, Capalaba and is open 7 days a week.