Talking Shop with Sun Cellars
The Best Retail Bottle Facility in Queensland
Photo: Maddy Smith, Martin Smith, Mark Colquhoun and Rachel Pearson.
When did the store open?
27th June 2004
Where is the store located?
Rising Sun Shopping Centre,
6 Ross River Road,
Townsville Queensland
How many staff do you have?
35 - 40
Describe what do in an average day?
I manage a hotel with 35 staff a major part of my day is doing my best to try keep them happy.
How did you get into this industry?
I took a casual job as a bottleshop attendant to pay my way through university.
What would you do if you were not in your current role?
I would play golf 5 days a week and go fishing on my days off.
What is the best part of your job?
Being able to get up and go to work in the morning, knowing, that no two days are going to be alike.
What do you like least?
Having to deal with people when they are at there worst.
Name the best retail outlet you have seen and why?
Apart from our own, it would have to be the Mr Corks Mega Store at Jindalee in Brisbane. Mr Corks have always been market leaders in retail liquor and pride themselves on there extensive range of fine and imported wines.
How do you see the relationship between retailer and supplier evolving in the coming years?
We use HLW as our supplier and have developed a strong working relationship with them. I believe that to succeed as a retailer you need to have a supplier who understands the needs of your venue and strives to provide great customer service.
What has been your greatest challenge in your current role?
My greatest challenge has been to oversee the renovations of the Sun Hotel and successfully trade through out the entire renovation period.
What has been your greatest achievement in your current role?
My greatest achievement in my current role was taking out the QHA Award for The Best Retail Bottle Facility in Queensland. To win this award highlights the fact that independent operators can take on the multinational retailer (Woolworth's and Coles). And provide retail outlets of an excellent standard that meet the requirements of our customers.
What areas of growth do you see for the industry?
From a retail point, I see an enormous opportunity for venues that provide an extensive range of wines (other than core products) with knowledgeable that can sell them. I also believe that there is scope to grow your business by servicing the corporate clients with solid everyday prices and exceptional service.
What advice would you give to some-one looking at a career in this industry?
Know that late nights and weekends are part and parcel of the industry, however, if you are prepared to do the hard yards this industry can be very rewarding.
Where do you think the industry is heading in the next five years?
I believe that the industry is heading for an exciting couple of years. With Coles and Woolworth's buying more and more hotels, independent hoteliers who are innovative and prepared to take a punt and back themselves can really take advantage of "I have something different factor" and exploit small niche markets.