The current manager of Drakes Port Lincoln spoke about his role at the recent Charlton Women in Agriculture and Business meeting.
Chad Smalbil came to Lincoln to manage the supermarket after several years working for Drakes at various stores in the northern areas of Adelaide.
He began as a 15-year-old school student 25 years ago, coming as the assistant manager 13 years ago.
He has been the local store manager for the past eight years, so has worked his way up.
Chad’s first challenges were coping with the logistics: the distance and time it took to have orders delivered – so if goods are ordered on Tuesday they cannot be on the shelves until Thursday.
For the local store, perishables are ordered every day except Mondays and Sundays.
Other goods are ordered two or three times a week, with as much as possible being Australian made.
Local producers are also supported, for example Tumby Bay eggs, local smallgoods and honey, olive oil and roasted coffee.
Chad explained the importance of staff training, people knowing what their specific jobs are, understanding Drakes’ policies and procedures, good role modelling from senior staff and being happy at work.
He said he appreciated constructive criticism and that complaints are taken seriously.
The Drakes company is no longer in a partnership with Foodland, so has much more autonomy.
Drakes has built a huge state-of-the-art warehouse in Edinburgh, so now has control over its own pricing and promotion.
Chad said that theft has become a major problem.
According to Chad, it is no longer kids pinching lollies but “high end” community members who tend to try to walk out with more expensive items like meats and cosmetics.
He said they are more aggressive than kids when challenged.
The store is apprehending four or five people each week, with quite a few being repeat offenders.
Chad answered members’ questions and also mentioned the Community Dollar scheme that supports local charities.
