After what felt like a never-ending Canadian winter, the team at Safeway Garrison Woods were sparked with a little summer joy as they celebrated Show and Sell on April 10 and 11.

Garrison Woods is a large location. Store manager, Brian Powrie, in addition to department managers, the MRO team and store support teams, invested weeks of preparation and were proud to stand side by side in celebration of an exceptional job well done.

“The show and sell process brought the entire store team together,” said Brian. “Our strong team of department managers and employees worked so well together. The planning, the organizing, the multiple idea creating sessions and the execution of our plan worked out perfectly. Teamwork is the key to success!”

We connected with the team of department managers at Garrison Woods to learn a little bit more about the importance of Show and Sells, what’s new in their departments, and why they’re passionate about Safeway.

Tommy Au – First Assistant

What’s new and exciting within your department?

There’s a number of exciting hero items that are coming for summer 2019, including a variety of Spirited Mickie BBQ sauce and new Compliments sparkling waters. There’s even a new private label pop rocks cookie – I loved pop rocks candy growing up, so the new cookie I’m sure will bring back great childhood memories.

What have you learned through the Show and Sell process?

We built relationships with backstage teams, celebrated successes, and overcame challenges together. The stock room felt like it was going to explode some days, full of new and exciting merchandise, but the labour and sweat put into it was most definitely worthwhile.

What areas of your role are you most passionate about?

I am thrilled to be given the creative license to merchandise and incorporate our two-cents into store displays. Our team worked hard to come up with creative ways to showcase product, and the end result was a stunning store that is ready for business.

Ashley Carlton – Second Assistant

What’s new and exciting within your department?

We’ve created excitement in the grocery department by bringing in some new products local to Western Canada, including Blue Kettle salsa from St. Albert, and Zazubean vegan chocolate out of B.C.

Why are Show and Sells important – to your team and to the store overall?

Show and Sells allow us to examine our store standards, while inspiring us with new ideas, and encouraging us to build thoughtful displays that carry a theme and draw customers in.

What have you learned through the Show and Sell process?

I learned the value of “editing”. By de-cluttering our store, it’s easier to shop and displays are more impactful. We also saw that through thoughtful and collaborative planning, and tailoring offerings to our demographic, our displays can look this good year round.

Emilia Dunphy – Deli Manager

What’s new and exciting within your department?

We have three new selections of natural meats free of preservatives, hormones, gluten, sugar or dairy. We have also a new snack section perfect for the active customer to take on picnics and hikes. We anticipate it to be a big hit this summer!
We also have a new parmesan shredder in our department which allows us to shred cheese for our customers on demand.

What have you learned through the Show and Sell process?

I’ve learned how important it is to keep up with the times. We need to introduce new products that are healthy and convenient for our customers, as we know these are two major factors in their purchasing choices.

What excites you as we look forward to the summer season?  

We are a very busy department in the spring and summer. With our assortment of healthy and convenient choices, I’m excited to offer a one-stop shopping experience for our customers.

Adam Collins – Meat Manager

What’s new and exciting within your department?

We are redefining many of our displays for summer execution. With our new layered four-foot kabob and burger displays, we’ll drive the ‘wow-factor’ and become a destination for summer BBQ entertaining.

What excites you as we look forward to the summer season?

I’m excited for the impact that the fresh new look will have on customers. The new signage will separate us from our competitors, and I’m excited for customer feedback on how to make an already great shopping experience even better.

 What makes you most proud of your store and/or the Safeway network in Alberta?

I’m proud to work alongside a team that comes to work with a sense of pride and unity, committed to ensuring an outstanding shopping experience for our customers. We are pillars in the community, and I’m proud that we are competing in the market again. The changes taking place are for the good, and we’re set to shine above competitors.

Brendt Tkachuk – Produce Manager

What’s new and exciting within your department?

We’re excited for the new showcasing of fruit and tomatoes at the front of the store, creating an impactful display as soon as customers enter. This section has generated a tremendous amount of sales already.

 What areas of your role are you most passionate about?

I’m passionate about the selection of fresh, local produce that is at the heart of our department. I’m able to educate staff and customers about our local offering, as well as the complete supplier process from farm to plate.

What excites you as we look forward to the summer season?  

I am most excited for our excellent seasonal produce. From cherries, to stone fruit, to watermelon, the warmer weather brings along a larger variety of local products. Each week brings a new wave of great produce. It’s amazing to deal directly with local growers to select really high quality products that entice our customers.

Wen Lin – Bakery Manager

What’s new and exciting in your department?

We completely changed the bakery department layout. It’s now easier for our customers to find the products they want, and the department looks more tidy and streamlined overall.

What area of your role are you most passionate about?

I’m passionate about creating stunning showcases that appeal to our customers. I’m always so ‘wow-ed’ by the amazing cupcakes and cakes we dream up. The execution is amazing, and sales have been great.

 What makes you most proud of your store?

While I have only recently joined the Garrison Safeway team, our Bakery team really came together throughout the Show and Sell process, putting in extra effort to make the department shine.

 Congratulations to Brian and the entire Garrison Woods Safeway team! Your hard work, dedication and commitment shine bright in your outstanding work – thank you! Be sure to stop by the Garrison Woods the next time you’re in the neighborhood, and stay up-to-date with us at www.safewaytalks.ca.