New store owners bring big changes

It's been a warm and friendly welcome to the Stratford community say the new owners of Stratford Four Square, Dave and Nikki Mullins.

Nikki says it has been wonderful coming back into the region after living in Auckland.

"I have a lot of family and friends in Taranaki being from New Plymouth originally, so we are happy to be here."

Dave says he has always wanted to own a grocery store and has spent the past several years gaining valuable experience working for Gilmours Wholesale Food and Beverage.

While taking on the role has seen the couple rushed off their feet, they say that they have had a lot of support from their amazing staff in the store, and their extended family with the couple's two-year-old son Cooper.

"Cooper loves the shop, he is always racing around and wanting to help out with the shelf stacking," says Nikki.

The family took over the store six weeks ago and have been implementing changes from the start. Nikki says, "we are re-designing all the hot food and trying out different meals for lunchtimes, which we have been receiving wonderful feedback on". Nikki adds that customers can now get their caf fix in store with the introduction of Ozone Coffee and a Barista and sweet treats such as freshly made cupcakes, muffins, scones and slices.

Dave adds there are even more changes on the way. "We are completely changing the layout of the store to allow room for new stock and give our customers a stress free shopping experience." He adds they are also looking at re-evaluating pricing to ensure their customers are offered competitive rates.

"We want people who shop with us to get exactly what they are looking for, we are open to suggestions about new products to stock."

To further introduce themselves to the community and the new things on offer Stratford Four Square will have re-launch specials in-store this week, from June 10 through to June 14 with everyone that spends $20 or more going in the draw for a young adult sized bike.

On Saturday Stratford Four Square will also have a winning wheel for customers who spend $20 or more with every spin winning a prize. "Come in and introduce yourself while taking advantage of our re-launch specials," says Nikki.

For more information on Stratford Four Square's re-launch specials see their ad on page 13.