Cafe owner Gregg Brown finds lifetime of lessons reaps rewards

Red Stag Timber Business Person of the Year Gregg Brown. Photo/Ben Fraser

Pig and Whistle and Capers Cafe owner Gregg Brown says a lifetime of learning is the key to success.

Mr Brown was named Red Stag Timber Business Person of the Year at the 2017 Westpac Rotorua Business Excellence Awards on Saturday night. An award, he says, that came as an absolute surprise.

"Obviously my wife knew because she had to get me there but I didn't have a clue. I must say her poker face has improved a lot over the years," he joked.

"And even when they announced the award my mind wasn't really focused on what was going on, I'm not sure at what point I realised I could be in the running."

Mr Brown said he was still in shock when he made his way to the stage.

"Talking in front of a big crowd on the fly is not my thing - my speech was very short. I was aware people may have been wanting to hear a few stories but I wasn't keen to stay there at all."

He said the award was still sinking in.

"I'm pretty chuffed to be honest, especially when you look at the people who have won the award before me. There are some very cool people on that list who have accomplished so much, if I am able to accomplish anything near what many of them have, I'd be happy."

He described the hospitality industry as "unique" and said many people who worked within it had a universal response when asked about it. "Most people will tell you it's hard work."

Mr Brown, with a partner, purchased the Pig and Whistle in 1995 but became the sole owner 18 months later. About 16 years ago he and his wife, Susan, set up Capers Cafe on Eruera St - Capers was named the 2017 Meadow Fresh New Zealand Cafe of the Year in February.

"There's been a lot of lessons since 1995 but, just before I bought the Pig and Whistle I felt like the reserve player who was ready to go. I think I'd learned a lot of life lessons before then too.

"The hospitality industry is a 24/7 job in that when you're not doing it, you're thinking about it. I'm also busy with other stuff that occupies my thoughts."

Mr Brown said he was lucky to have a great team that allowed him to do other things.

"Other things that I'm still learning about."