Pictured new store Manager Neal (left) and James Griffiths. Photo C. Simpson.
By C Simpson, CRC Communications
There’s been a buzz around town this week about wonderful new things happening at our local IGA. New Manager Neal Griffiths had officially been managing the store for only six days when interviewed, yet the changes happening were already evident. Most noticeable was the fruit and fresh produce section, it was jam packed with an exciting variety of fresh produce.
Neal is an enthusiastic and very pleasant young man who in partnership with his father has recently taken over the business. Neal and James have had extensive experience in food retailing after running a similar venture in Bindoon for sixteen years.
Neal said that he came to Walpole when he was still at school in 1999 on an excursion to the Tree Top Walk and he had not been back until October last year when he was scoping for a business venture.
Apart from the noticeable changes in the fruit section, Neal and James said they have plans to improve many aspects of the shop including pricing, the range and availability of products. Soon to come will be improvements to Caltex with a new electronic pricing board and after-hours self-service facility to be installed.
The dynamic duo also plans to improve the bottle shop and expand the variety of products available to include some premium and local selections.
Neal said: “We thank the Muirs before us and the Nockolds before them for the opportunity to be able to work and live in such a great community in such a beautiful part of the world. We hope our customers welcome us warmly and give us time to adjust and improve the store where needed. We look forward to meeting you in store and getting to know every one of you over time.”
Though Neal has not been in town long he said he enjoys morning walks and seeing the sunrise over the misty inlet water. James has not moved to Walpole permanently yet but plans to do so in the near future.
If you have not yet met the new managers why not visit the store and while you are there check out the new selection of products. TView Walpole IGA’s directory profile here
Bill Muir and his family owned the store since 1993, they pose for a photo with the new managers.
Photo courtesy Bill Muir.
