Business runs in the blood for Shams Shiraz, Business Development Manager of Jesters Mt Wellington, recipient of the ‘Business Excellence in Retail Trade’ at the BNZ-Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards 2014.
“The Company’s 30% growth comes from expanding using well-equipped vans and it is exploring further innovative plans for expansion,” the Judges said.
Shams grew up in a home that constantly discussed about its family-owned business.
Following her marriage to Shiraz Hajee in 2006, she stared working in the business.
Great Team
She took up the task of monitoring sales, putting systems in place and ensuring that business remained profitable.
Building a strong customer base, mentoring the team to provide friendly service with a smile and assessing client response were among the attributes that helped the store with the Retail Trade Award.
The family atmosphere at the store has spelt the triple advantage of enabling the staff to offer their best, encouraged Shams and Shiraz to work more ‘on’ rather than ‘in’ the business and enjoy work-life balance.
Tasty flavours
“Jesters is a brand that makes 16 “ridiculously tasty flavours” ranging from the ‘Maharaja’ (Butter Chicken) to basic Beef mince and cheese pies. These are made fresh on site, which is unique, and away from other brands that usually have their food made in a factory and shipped frozen and reheated in stores.
“Another positive aspect about Jesters is that it is recognised by ‘Weight Watchers,’ with points allocated to 12 pies in our range,” Shams said.
Her personal favourites are Vegetarian Spinach, Mushroom and Feta Pie, which are also the preferred choice of the family.
