A family-run store in Dumfries and Galloway is celebrating a century of trading, putting shoppers at the heart of all they do to ensure their success.
James Kinnaird, owner of the 1,500 sq.ft. Nisa Local store in Dalbeattie says being an integral part of the community remains one of the most important factors for his business.
Kinnaird's entire life has centred around the store having started out as a schoolboy selling fruit and vegetables outside the front of the shop at just eight years old. He said, “We are truly a local business having been here for 100 years and being a part of the community is really important to us.
“One of the best parts of the job is the people; I know most of our customers by name and we also employ local people with most of our 25 staff coming from the village. It all goes towards making it more personal for our shoppers.”
The store stands out from local competition by ensuring they offer numerous points of difference with a strong focus on local suppliers for products ranging from eggs and fresh produce to gin and craft ales. A fresh serve over deli counter which offers cheeses and meats, cut to the individual requirement of each shopper is also a favourite.
And the ability to provide competitive prices on key brands and earn a reputation for offering good value, has helped the store thrive.
Kinnaird said, “We focus on a better branded selection and give attention to offers and promotions but we also have permanent minimum prices on some key products so our customers know they can come to us and they can get a good deal. It allows us to be the cheapest for certain items and helps with customer loyalty.”
