Store owner started as trolley boy

He started off pushing trolleys and has worked his way through almost every department - now Greg Dyson has taken on the top role at Rotorua New World.

Mr Dyson, the store's new owner-operator, said it was a long way since he started as a 15-year-old trolley boy but, after forging a career in grocer shops which has lasted more than two decades, he was excited about his new role.

A passion for the industry and a love of the Bay of Plenty combined to see him take over his new role, moving from Kawerau's New World about eight weeks ago.

Yesterday, a special open day was held at the store to welcome him. He said now the Kawerau store had been sold, customers could expect to see him on the floor a lot more.

Mr Dyson said he had spent almost all of his career working in supermarkets, aside from five years' OE. He had previously worked in Rotorua at Ngongotaha Four Square, as well as in supermarkets in Auckland.

"I'm a seasoned grocer."

He said the appeal was dealing with people and the thrill of buying and selling. Mr Dyson said he also enjoyed working with and growing staff.

"My vision is to give the customers a great shopping experience."

Since taking over in Rotorua he has already introduced 100 new items to the produce department.