What inspired you to set up your current business?
It's in the blood. We grew up with retail and have a family history of retail since 1934 here in Rotorua.
What was the best business decision you have made?
Ongoing - we are constantly updating and changing our focus, bringing the best to our customers
What was your worst business mistake (if any) and what did you learn from it?
We are very hands on! Nothing really comes to mind. If we find things are not working we take a different tack.
What do you see as the biggest opportunity for your business in the year ahead?
Not only for our business but for our city to work together with other retailers, landlords and council to create a vibrant inner city that will attract visitors and locals to enjoy and want to visit.
If you could do any other job for a day, what would that be?
Ron - Whatever Lesley tells me!
Lesley - Funny that doesn't normally work!
We've always been a team - we love the fashion industry and what we are doing.
How do you maintain a healthy work/life balance?
Ask the staff for a day off! We do have a lot of fun doing what we are doing. We are a big family really. We are members of Rotary Club of Rotorua North and Ron was a past governor.
What's the best thing about being in business in Rotorua?
It's our home! Where our family have lived and worked for over 80 years. It's central location, great attractions, lots of visitors. We are positive people. Rotorua has great potential with a little TLC (tender loving care).
If you were mayor of Rotorua for a day, what one change would you make?
Well it would take us a day to work out who would be Mayor (Ron or Lesley). We worked for free parking so that's done. I would wave my magic wand and put a new face to this place - a place to be proud of!
