The winners of the Milk-Agro best store competition also include the store at Hlavná Street 47 in Prešov. It is even first in its group. We talked about it with the manager Dana Bellová and her deputy Monika Lucíková.
People from Prešov know the Milk-Agro store at this pedestrian zone location hasn't been here long... When did you open?
Manager Dana Bellová: I know exactly; it was October 1, 2016. That's when we started. Of course, the preparation of the space, placing shelves, cooling display cases, and boxes happened earlier, but the actual sale started on October 1. I remember when I came here, I liked it. I imagined where we would put shelves, stands, cooling counters, and suddenly it was full, ready for sale.
Deputy Monika Lucíková: The store has a rectangular shape, which means we walk a bit during stock checks and restocking... (laugh), which keeps us physically fit.
How long did it take for customers to "discover" you?
D. B.: At first, it was slow. Customers discovered us gradually.
M. L.: A significant change happened when a competing store on Hlavná Street closed. Then there was a big influx of customers, most of whom have stayed with us.
D. B.: We gained more buyers because we are close to a public transport stop. People use waiting time to shop with us and then comfortably take their purchases home.
M. L.: It also helps that various events take place in the pedestrian zone. Cultural events organized by the city and civic associations, or sales events and markets related to holidays and anniversaries. Then we have quite a few customers because people buy drinks to refresh or delicacies to enjoy... (laugh).
That's a good time for tastings...
D. B.: We do them at least once a week. We prepare tastings of SABI products for our customers. Whether it's Volovec cheese, Sabinovská brick, or Sabinovská curd. Through these events, we also provide an aesthetic experience by arranging the tasting offers. The combination of cheese, grapes, and fresh green herbs simply encourages tasting.
Do customers respond to price promotions?
D. B.: Definitely, today customers buy promotional goods much more than before. Compared to two years ago, people respond much more to promotions.
M. L.: People respond more to promotions than before. Therefore, we try to alternate promotions and make them more interesting for our customers.
Which SABI products sell best?
D. B.: Yogurts are definitely first here. Both flavored and plain. "Yum" for me are strawberry-rhubarb or plum-cinnamon flavors. An interesting seller is also the novelty, full-fat milk with a resealable cap. During tastings, we showed our customers the practicality of this packaging, and we immediately noticed increased interest.
M. L.: I must say for myself that bifid milk also holds its place in sales. I personally liked the vanilla flavor and can recommend it... (laugh). Our unique curd yogurts with vanilla or nut-caramel, where you can taste the individual ingredients, whether curd, vanilla, or nut.
What would you say to teams that have not yet won your annual competition?
D. B.: I think the important thing is to do everyday work so it does not become a routine. We work so that customers feel good and comfortable with us and keep returning.
M. L.: Working with people has always been challenging. It is important to keep perspective and rather respond with a smile to the initial nervousness or stress of our buyers. In the end, we all enrich each other in communication, and that is what it is all about.
Thank you for the interview.
