Staff matters Yearbook 2019

Staffmatters
2019

Bringing you all the latest news
from Henderson Group

Staff Matters 2019 Business Update

Business Much of the support we provide to
our retailers is channelled through our
Update 2019 excellent marketing department. Not only
did the team oversee the rebrand and
The run-up to Christmas is a good relaunch of product ranges and offers
time to pause and take stock of how such as the eminent 12 Deals campaign,
we are doing as a business. As grocers they were also responsible for delivering
and wholesalers, taking stock is in our our first-ever Christmas lifestyle and
DNA but it’s important to take a step food magazine, ‘InSPARation’. The team’s
back and reflect on the many positive vision helps design campaigns which cut
achievements of 2019. through the noise, and public affinity and
recognition for each of our brands is at
Pleasingly, we have continued to build on an all time high. Special congratulations
last year’s growth trajectory and as the to the SPAR team whose creativity was
number of stores increases, so too does recognised at the Belfast Telegraph
our position on key success indicators. Business Awards, where they picked up
We finished the year at number 23 on the award for Excellence in Marketing.
the Belfast Telegraph’s list of Top 100
most profitable companies; number 6 on and we hope to continue to champion This year has also been a strong year of
BDO’s list of Top 100 Locally Controlled Northern Ireland farmers and growers in growth in Henderson Technology. Over
Businesses and at number 5 on Ulster the years to come. 75 stores have now been equipped with
Business’ digest of the Top 100 firms. EDGEPoS self-checkouts, not to mention
Following successful trials in 2018 we its success on the international stage.
We began the year by refreshing our introduced our SPAR Bakery brand across
group’s core values and the four pillars the network, and also a new range of Spar In a global first, Henderson Technology
of ambition; teamwork; customers first Enjoy Local cake lines and more recently, worked with app-developers to introduce
and integrity, all guiding us to ‘delight our launched our range of restaurant-quality the Gander App to over 300 stores. This
customers with great food’. We are in homecooked meals under ‘The Chef’ pioneering technology allows shoppers
the process of evaluating and updating banner which are expertly prepared in our to see real time reductions on short-
our group’s corporate brand identity so new kitchen facilities by in-house chef, dated items and has rewritten the rule
that it reflects who we are as a business Carl Johannesson. book on how stores deal with food waste.
today and I want to thank everyone Unsurprisingly, the app won Mobile App of
who has taken the time to participate in the Year at the inaugural Belfast Telegraph
focus groups or provide feedback to this IT Awards and will no doubt continue to
important undertaking. achieve success in 2020.

In terms of our retail business, we opened With our fingers firmly on the pulse of The team at Henderson Technology are
7 new stores in 2019, bringing the total the latest consumer spending habits, we also devising a mobile app for pre-ordering
number of company-owned store to understand the need to grow and develop Food To Go product which will go live
89 and have major works in the pipeline our Food to Go offerings. We now have 49 in Q1 and greatly enhance the shopper
to increase this number significantly Daily Deli branded food to go counters and experience in store in terms of reducing
throughout 2020 and beyond. this brand continues to grow at pace in our queue times at peak periods. The future of
company-owned stores with figures sitting retail is changing rapidly but our technology
Across the wider retail portfolio, we have at 37% higher than in 2018. team continues to lead the way in terms
made a net gain of 9 new accounts. We of embracing these changes and ensuring
also saw a growth in retail space and Likewise, the Barista Bar coffee brand we continue to out perform customer
average store size, and this success continues to grow and sales in company- expectations.
is largely down to the hard work and owned stores surpassed the 4million cup
success of our Property team. mark in 2019. Already, positive indicators Meanwhile the addition of new equipment
show that 2020 is set to be an exciting time at Henderson Print has cumulated in
Of course, with an increase in store size, for this brand as it enters the next phase of record sales and profit figures for this
we need to increase our product offering its development. area of the business. We formed a
simultaneously and this is an area we strategic business partnership with Sign
have invested in significantly during the Innovation continues to be the driving Reload, allowing us to provide a one-
last 12 months. force behind everything we do and I’m stop-shop for our customers, and as we
proud to see our efforts being rewarded as continue to offset the decline in demand
Our aim at Henderson Wholesale is for once again, colleagues swept the boards for traditional print services, having
fresh products to account for more than at local and national industry awards. diversified to capitalise on large format
50% of all retail sales and I’m proud to say Henderson Wholesale were awarded a and digital offerings.
we have made impressive strides towards Silver IIP accreditation while Henderson
reaching this target. In 2019 we rebranded Retail stores won each of the Fresh Food Under the strategic leadership of Cathal
and relaunched our Greengrocer brand, categories at the Retail Industry Awards Geoghegan, Henderson Foodservice has
working with 18 new suppliers to deliver and we were honoured to win Community also experienced another fantastic growth
a range of 110 fresh fruit and vegetable Retailer of the Year, thanks in large part to period with sales consistently achieving
items. This brand underpins our group’s our work with Cancer Fund for Children. double-digit growth year on year. As
commitment to the local agri-food sector with all areas of the business, this growth
In 2019, we became the charity’s first has been driven by investment. Product
corporate partner to surpass the £1million portfolio has been strengthened thanks
fundraising mark and sincere thanks must to the acquisition of multi-site Food Co in
go to everyone who has participated in Lisburn and Ashbourne which has opened
fundraising activities for this worthy cause. the business up to customers across the
island of Ireland.
Recent intel indicates that we are ranked
as the number one convenience store in Other investment has included state of
terms of brand favourability and 93% of our the art, multi-temperature warehousing
core retailers would describe themselves facilities, a new online ordering system
as happy with the package we provide. This and additions to the fleet of branded
is predominately down to the wraparound, livery, following the purchase of 18
full-service nature of the services we offer £100,000 trucks.
with BDM teams; marketing; customer
services and technology teams all working We are close to completion on phase one
as a collective unit to enhance the overall of our new warehouse which will transform
experience of retailers and ultimately, our many areas of our business and introduce
customers. further opportunities for collaboration

2

A Christmas Message Staff Matters 2019

The Greatest Gift Contents

Christmas is just around the corner. Many especially the children PERFECT PARTNERS 04
are filled with expectations of what they hope to get. Most of us Going The Extra Mile for
see Christmas as a time of giving and receiving gifts and many as a Belfast City Marathon 05
time of celebration at the Birth of Jesus Christ. The Greatest Balmoral Show Ever 06
All A Bit Of Craic
At the heart of Christmas is both the gift and the gift giver. For God 30th SPAR Omagh Half Marathon 07
so loved the World that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever Oscar Knox Cup
believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). ‘High Pointe’ for Rana and her
In this verse we read both about the giver, God the Father, and the School of Ballet
gift, Jesus Christ the son.
RETAIL NEWS 08
It is amazing that the birth of a baby in a cattle shed would have New Stores in 2019 09
such a world wide impact. Carrick’s BIGGEST Community Supermarket
He died on a cross paying the debt for our sins and rose from the New era for SPAR Manse Road 10
dead defeating death offering eternal life to everyone who believes SPAR Sunnyside Street
and accepts His gift of Salvation. The Wages of sin is death, but the Upcoming Stores in 2020 11
gift of God is eternal life (Romans 6: 23). 20 Years of Trading for McAnallen’s 12
A New Chapter for JD Hunter & Co 13
I encourage you this Christmas to ponder on the love of God the Peter McBride Joins InterSPAR 14
Giver as well as the Greatest Gift Jesus Christ. SPAR Ballyhalbert Celebrates 10 Years
Better Range & Even More Value at SPAR
Lisnarick

between Henderson Foodservice and sustainable fashion and we must CHARITY NEWS 15
Henderson Retail. continue to evolve alongside changes in Creightons Raise £8,000 for
consumer behaviour. Local Cancer Charities 16
Once operational, the £16.5m facilities Kelly’s Supermarket Reaches
will be truly world class and the biggest As always, it is the investment in our £100k Milestone 17
logistics offering in Northern Ireland. people which will strengthen us to meet Valuable Visit to Vietnam 18-21
Enhanced features include dynamic these challenges head-on. Our group The Gift of Giving 22
loading bay usage; innovative picking headcount has just surpassed 4,000 Make a Change for Life 23
techniques; state of the art safety and this has been a key factor for us Henderson Group Social Club 24
features and effective energy saving in terms of sales growth. As a group, Breaker Breaker Truck Show 25
processes. All of this will be complemented we pride ourselves in training and ‘Wild’ 1,490 Mile Fundraising Cycle 26
by our highly trained workforce and developing our staff and I’m pleased Henderson Foodservice Charity Events 27
continual investment in new technology that we have successfully introduced Meet the Director – Cathal Geoghegan
will elevate our position within the local our ‘Well Aware’ programme which
and national market and revolutionise our takes a holistic approach to staff AWARDS 28-29
warehousing capabilities. development and care. Record Breaking Results 29
Convenience Retail Awards 30
We are fortunate to have an internal The Henderson Group will always be Neighbourhood Retailer Awards
IT team who keep us all ticking over a family-run business and we pride Taking on Global Retail Giants 31
and enable so many other areas of our ourselves on maintaining the family at IGD Awards
business and our customers’ businesses values on which this business was Double Triumph at Belfast 32
to excel. In 2019, the team developed a established. Each of you play an Telegraph Awards 33
new automated warehouse replenishment important role in helping us sustain Investors in People Accreditation Success
system for Wholesale and Foodservice these values and I would like to take this Wellbeing at Work Finalist
and are making improvements to the opportunity to wish each of you a very RoSPA Order of Distinction Award
operating systems used by HR and T&A happy and peaceful Christmas; from Julie Is Top of The Stocks
teams. Thanks to the implementation of our family to yours. Mulkern’s EUROSPAR Tops the Poll
resilient fibre network circuits and major Store Colleague of the Year Awards
upgrade work across the entire site, we
are all benefiting from faster technical DEPARTMENT NEWS 34
infrastructure with better business Our Core Group Values 35-36
continuity as a result. Training and Development 37-41
Health and Wellness 42
Looking at the group as a whole, Q3 sales Meet the Director – Sam Davison 43
were up 8% and profit up by 13.8% which New Business Experience Placements 44
leaves us in a very healthy position going Keep Connected With Kit! 45
into a busy, final quarter. The future for Henderson Group Property 46-47
Henderson Group will continue to be Henderson Technology 48-49
driven by investment in new stores, new Barista Bar 50-51
warehousing facilities, new technology and Passionate About Local 52
in new customers. SPAR enjoy local Bakery
Local Artisan Food 53
THE CHEF

Christmas News 54-57
Headline Makers 58
Long Service Awards 2019 59-62
Competition 63

There will undoubtedly be challenges
in the years ahead and even the most
successful business cannot be immune
to the threat of continued Brexit chaos.
As our customers continue to focus more
on environmental issues, we must learn
to carry out our operations in a more

3

Staff Matters 2019 Perfect Partners

Going
The Extra
Mile For
Belfast
City
Marathon

Sunday 5th May marked our first
partnership with the Deep River Rock
Belfast City Marathon. As part of the
partnership we had the pleasure of
bringing the successful SPAR Sports Club
initiative to Northern Ireland for the very
first time. SPAR Sports Club was created
as part of SPAR’s sponsorship of British
Athletics and has been enjoyed by over
4,000 track and field fans at the SPAR
British Athletics National Indoors, Muller
Indoor Grand Prix and the European
Athletics Indoor Championships.

As part of the finish line hub and
celebrations at Ormeau Park, visitors
and supporters took the opportunity to
test their athleticism during the Speed
Challenge to try and ’beat the elites’.
Participants were also able to warm up
with the Speed Bounce Challenge where
they had 20 seconds to complete as many
jumps as possible.

Runners picked up orange segments and

handfuls of jelly beans from our nutrition The Big Red marquee
stations on the Lisburn and Ormeau Road makes Its debut at Belfast
giving them an extra boost of energy along City Half Marathon…
the way. Furthermore, our branded finisher

bags created a sea of red SPAR reusable

bags on the day which included a voucher On Sunday 22nd September, 5,000
for a free Fulfil protein bar redeemable in participants descended upon Ormeau
SPAR stores throughout Northern Ireland. Park for the largest half marathon event

Our very own Ciaran Haren was part of in Northern Ireland. As a sponsor of the
the Experiment 26.2 Group, set up by
y Marathon organisers to help support event we were delighted to bring back
t our orange nutrition station, jellybeans
cheer station at SPAR Grosvenor Road and
members in running their first ever
branded finisher bags including a voucher
marathon. Not only did Ciaran complete his for a free tub of Breyers Ice Cream. Our
first marathon he also raised an amazing brand-new SPAR branded 3mx3m gazebo
by £2,368.71 for Action Mental Health, rumour made its debut at the finish line providing
et has it Ciaran is now an avid runner!
tasting samples and family fun for race

Likewise, a big well done goes to the 20 participants and their supporting family

head office staff who walked, jogged or and friends. The iconic Northern Ireland

ran the marathon as well as the many rain surely didn’t dampen any spirits!

supporters along the route helping make

for a fantastic community event.

4

Perfect Partners Staff Matters 2019

The Greatest During the fun, there was fundraising
Balmoral for Marie Curie NI and Cancer Fund
Show Ever for Children, helping raise a fantastic
£13,000 going towards the vital work both
The SPAR team rolled out the big top organisations bring to local communities in
for the ninth year as platinum sponsors Northern Ireland.
of the Balmoral Show. Four days of
fun-filled family activities took place Henderson Wholesale rounded out the
with the now infamous red Stetsons show by celebrating their local food
and mega giveaways including two on- partners through their Fresh Innovation
the-spot cash prizes of £1,000 from the Awards. BBC NI’s Jo Scott hosted the
brand-new SPAR Spinner making for the awards alongside the Fresh team and
greatest show ever! rewarded suppliers such as Gilfresh for
their CSR and sustainability programmes
The Ulster University’s FACT (Food and in the Tomorrow Matters award, Hovis
Consumer Testing) team made a return for Excellence in Regional Delivery and
helping families understand their tastes Cloughbane Farm Foods for Excellence in
when it comes to food, whilst W5 were on Product Innovation. Ross Irwin continued
hand turning show-goers into scientists by Irwin Bakery’s winning legacy from 2018
demonstrating experiments that can be after his Uncle Brian took home the
enjoyed in the kitchen. Outstanding Achievement to the Agri-
Food Industry award, by being named
There was also plenty of opportunities Young Agri-Food Innovator for 2019,
for visitors to taste some of the products and Richardson’s Quality Butchers in
made by Northern Ireland’s tastiest local EUROSPAR Lagan Valley were named In-
food suppliers within our enjoy local range, Store Butcher of the Year.
from cheese to sausages, buns and bread,
all inside the enjoy local Marquee. K&G McAtamney raised the ‘steaks’ by
taking home Overall Supplier of the Year
Meanwhile, the SPAR Arena had an recognising their innovation to create
action-packed schedule from jiving products for our own brand ranges, as
competitions to petting zoos and bird well as our exclusive partnership brand of
displays, while the SPAR store sold joints, steaks and fresh meat cuts being
sandwiches, snacks and Barista Bar second to none.
coffee keeping both exhibitors and
visitors energised throughout the event. Yet again the Balmoral Show was a
wonderful cross-departmental event
which wouldn’t be possible without
the hard work and determination of all
involved. We look forward to what’s in store
for the 2020 show.

5

Staff Matters 2019

All A Bit Of Craic! 30th SPAR Omagh Half
Marathon and Fun Run
The 5th annual SPAR Craic 10K took place on
Sunday 17th March seeing almost 2000 runners The 30th Anniversary SPAR Omagh
take to the streets of the city on a wet and windy Half Marathon and fun run was a year to
St. Patricks morning. remember with a record breaking turn
out of over 4,500 participants.
The race began at the City Hall at 9.00am, passing through the Gaeltacht Quarter
before finishing at Ormeau Park. Several Head Office staff took part crossing the As always, the run was a great family day
finish line in great time despite the weather! As an added extra, this year we linked out with live music and entertainment
up with Fulfil & Richmond Marketing to offer all participants a complimentary throughout the town during the race, SPAR
Fulfil Bar in the form of a voucher which could be redeemed in our SPAR stores, spot prizes and running competitions
helping to drive footfall. joined by the sea of local supporters who
came out to cheer on their loved ones.

The SPAR Omagh Half is now one of the
key events in our calendar and we’re proud
to play a role in delivering this great event.
This event aligns perfectly with our passion
for promoting health and fitness initiatives
throughout Northern Ireland.

Well done to the 7 members from
Henderson Group’s Head Office who
crossed the finish line on what was a sun
blistering day!

+ 5 k Fun Run & Walk

6

Perfect Partners Staff Matters 2019
7
Oscar
Knox Cup

What an incredible day! Rumoured as the
biggest and best Oscar Knox Cup yet, we
are delighted to have contributed to a
phenomenal fundraising total of £30,000
from the annual golf event.

Around 160 golfers enjoyed a round of
golf followed by a two-course dinner,
prize-giving and evening of entertainment
hosted by broadcaster Stephen Clements.

Our local retailers took to the greens in
unsurprisingly competitive fashion as
they were joined by sporting stars such
as snooker champ Mark Allen and boxers
Michael and Jamie Conlan. Belfast retailer
Chris Suitor also took to the decks later
in the evening making his DJing debut for
the charity. The cup was eventually won
by Carrickmore quartet Cathal Donaghy,
Benny McLaughlin, Conal McGarrity and
Conor McNulty.

Wilsons Auctions managed the live
auction, which included items of signed
sporting memorabilia from stars such as
Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry and Ronnie
O’Sullivan, which alone raised over £12,500.

Partnering with the Knox family in
organising this event is a true pleasure as
they continue to commemorative their
wee son Oscar and fight against childhood
cancer.

‘High Pointe’ for Rana We were thrilled to make a surprise visit
and her School of Ballet during one of Rana’s ballet lessons at De
La Salle College to present a cheque for
Rana O’Brien, a former prima ballerina £2000 and a trophy alongside the SPAR UK
who set up a school of ballet in West People’s Podium team.
Belfast over 20 years ago, was crowned
the regional winner of SPAR’s 2019 Rana O’Brien commented; “To win this
People’s Podium Award. award is a recognition of all the hard
work by my dance students and the
First launched in 2018, the People’s commitment of their families and indeed
Podium initiative invites the public to the whole local community. We can all
nominate a local sporting hero whom they celebrate this accolade together.”
feel has made a huge and positive impact
on their local community. Local SPAR retailers Geraldine and Arshad
Rasool, from Woodburn SPAR also joined
Following thousands of votes submitted the celebrations and praised Rana for her
via social media and shortlisted judging by hard work and contribution to the local
a dedicated People’s Podium panel, ballet West Belfast community.
teacher Rana was named the winner for
Northern Ireland. The People’s Podium campaign is a great
demonstration of SPAR’s local community
credentials and our commitment to always
being there for local people and their
communities.

Staff Matters 2019 Retail News

News Stores in 2019

Congratulations to all who have opened a new
SPAR, EUROSPAR, VIVO, VIVOXTRA or VIVO
Essentials store in 2019! Here’s our list of
openings and conversions.

Name Brand Town/City
Charioteer Ltd Ballydown SPAR Banbridge
Sunnyside Street SPAR Belfast
Kevin Mallon ViVO Essentials Belfast
Ladas Drive EUROSPAR Belfast
Victoria t EUROSPAR Carrickfergus
VIVO Castlederg ViVO Essentials Castlederg
Abercorn Filling Station ViVO Essentials Derry
Ballymac Stores Ltd Sevenoaks ViVO Essentials Derry
Ballymac Stores Ltd Ballymagroarty ViVO Essentials Derry
Maiden City Stores Creggan St ViVO Essentials Derry
Maiden City Stores Old
Strabane Rd ViVO Essentials Derry
Dromara
Ranfurly EUROSPAR Dromara
Donaghmore EUROSPAR Dungannon
Dundonald SPAR Dungannon
Jonesborough EUROSPAR Dundonald
Catherine Street Killyleagh SPAR Jonesborough
Newcastle Road SPAR Killyleagh
Kilwaughter EUROSPAR Kilkeel
JD Hunters & Co Ltd Markethill SPAR Larne
Seagoe EUROSPAR Markethill
Portaferry SPAR Portadown
Mill Street Tandragee EUROSPAR Portaferry
Lynch’s Foodstores Ltd Clonoe SPAR Tandragee
SPAR Tyrone

8

Retail News Staff Matters 2019

Carrick’s BIGGEST Community Supermarket

EUROSPAR Victoria Road, reopened Shoppers at EUROSPAR Victoria Road “Shoppers have been enjoying our new
this October after an extensive £1.25m can now experience a variety of grocery ‘Occasions’ area for gifts, cards and
refurbishment. essentials while also enjoying extra confectionery as well as our Kidz Zone,
concessions to add even more value to seating area with free Wi-Fi, Barista Bar
The store, which now stands at almost their visit in store. coffee, and SPAR Bakery range of fresh
12,000 sq. ft brings a wealth of new breads and pastries baked in store
services and extended opening hours to Stephen Brown, Store Manager at every day.
the area. EUROSPAR Victoria Road commented;
“We were really excited to complete the “We’ve introduced even more of our
Local shopper, Jean McKinty, a customer renovation and bring even more daily neighbours to our extended range of
of the store for the past 50 years, cut the services to our local shoppers. We have products and services, which includes
ribbon for the official reopening on Friday 53 bays of fresh, local produce of which our new self-checkouts making the
18 October, which completed after a four- 75% is sourced from local suppliers, plus shopper experience even more
month refurbishment of the entire interior, we expanded our butchery counter from convenient.”
plus external enhancements. Fergus Butchery.

New era for range of fresh food and dairy products
SPAR Manse Road are now available along with the popular
Butchery and McAtamney’s meat ranges.
Earlier this year work completed on an
extensive refurbishment project of the On Friday March 22, the store was a hub
popular Manse Road site. The store now of activity as Primary 4 pupils from both
offers an extensive line of hot and cold St. MacNissi’s Primary School and Mossley
food offerings from their new daily deli Primary School who were given the
counter, complemented by an additional chance to open the store by completing a
Barista Bar Coffee kiosk. With wider aisles, colouring competition.
new flooring and lighting, a much larger

9

Staff Matters 2019 Retail News

A brand new, state-of-the-art SPAR car-parking spaces tucked away from the
store was opened on Belfast’s Sunnyside heavily congested Ormeau road, free to
Street, just off the Ormeau Road, earlier use ATM and extended opening hours has
this year adding 30 new staff members to been a great hit with shoppers.
the Henderson Group family.
Store Manager Glenda Hanna is proud to
SPAR After a 10-month build it was fantastic be offering the local community a choice
Sunnyside to open the 3,014 sq. ft. store delivering of over 600 fresh products from local
Street a brand-new shopping experience to the suppliers, including SPAR’s own brand
local community with it’s 20 bay fresh ranges such as enjoy local, The Kitchen
food focus. and The Greengrocer’s range of produce,
as well as popular concepts including the
Since opening in June, shoppers have ‘Occasions’ section, new SPAR Bakery
been taking advantage of the host of concession, food-to-go and the ever-
essential everyday services and products popular Barista Bar.
on their doorstep daily.
To celebrate the opening, the team held
The layout of this store was specifically a colouring competition with pupils from
designed not only to increase the neighbours Holy Rosary and Rosetta
offering, but to create a more convenient Primary Schools, and the winners were
shopping solution to residents of the invited along to cut the ribbon at the
South Belfast area. The enticing 25 free official opening.

Upcoming Stores in 2020

There’s Even More To Come…
Take a look at the upcoming Store Projects for 2020

EUROSPAR Millisle
*Brand New Store*

EUROSPAR Rossdowney SPAR Doury Road EUROSPAR Glenavy Village
*Refurb (Knock down & Rebuild)* *Brand New Store* *Store Extension*

EUROSPAR Newry Road EUROSPAR Gilford SPAR Route Service Station
*Brand New Store* *Brand New Store* *Refurb (Knock down & Rebuild)*

10

Retail News Staff Matters 2019
11
A new beginning marks
20 years of trading
for McAnallen’s of
Benburb

The grand opening of the new-build
McAnallen’s of Benburb SPAR superstore
took place on Saturday 4th of May as
the McAnallen family embarked on their
twentieth year of trading in the Tyrone-
Armagh border village.

Local businessman Brendan McAnallen
branched into retail with ‘Benburb Village
Stores’ on Main Street in 1999. The latest
project, which began construction in
February 2018, brought a purpose-built
4,000sq-ft modern SPAR store, spacious
car park and fuel pump facilities to the
Derryfubble Road.

Brendan explains; “Benburb has been a
rapidly growing village in the two decades
since we started trading. While staff and
shoppers alike were very fond of the
old Main Street shop, we needed more
floorspace and greater room outside
to provide our customers with the best
service to meet their requirements. We
now know that their everyday shopping
needs can be catered for and took great
pride in developing the new store.”

The spacious store provides a unique
shopping experience, as the McAnallen
family have carefully incorporated the
natural and built heritage of the village
into aspects of the interior design. Above
the main entrance is an eye-catching
light fitting that represents the nearby
Blackwater River, while historical imagery
and facts about Benburb adorn the
adjacent walls.

Brendan, along with his wife Bridget and
two sons Fergus and Donal maintain a
regular presence in the shop, with Fergus
overseeing the daily running of the
business.

Fergus speaks of the role the store fulfils
within the local area: “We employ locally,
use local suppliers and in turn contribute
to the local economy – that gives us a great
sense of satisfaction”

Staff Matters 2019 Retail News

A new chapter for
JD Hunter & Co

Heggarty Twins performed a live set of
their greatest country hits throughout
the day.

In March of this year we were “We are now part of the Markethill The 170 staff who make up the team
pleased to announce our community, so we take immense pride in-store are from the local area, have
partnership with Dermott in offering goods and services from local been part of the team for many years
McConnell, as he took food suppliers, producers and farmers, and continue to play an integral role in
ownership of the well-known and play an active role by supporting the store’s success.
Markethill supermarket, various charitable and school initiatives.
JD Hunter & Co. Dermott’s collaborative approach has
With this in mind, we also support our seen various improvements throughout
It was a whirlwind first few months as local meat producers and bakers, by the store based upon shoppers’ feedback
Dermott became a local in Markethill, continuing to stock fresh baked goods starting with extending opening hours;
spending his time getting to know his from The Village Bakery in Markethill, and “convenience is top priority. It’s not ideal
new neighbours, including those who our in-store butcher sources all our meat for our shoppers if we’re closed on their
have been lifelong customers and who from local suppliers.” way to or from work.”
have had the supermarket play a huge
role in their lives. Since opening the team at JD Hunters Ultimately for Dermott, coming back
have organised various community home has been a dream come true; “We
Originally from East Belfast and with fun days and fundraising events have been very lucky to have received
family links in Kilkeel, Dermott has including their Cancer Fund For Children such a warm welcome home to Northern
enjoyed meeting his new shoppers Community Coffee Morning raising a Ireland and the people of Markethill are
and people from the local community, fantastic £1,255 in just one morning. to thank for that. I am looking forward to
who have helped him, and his family continuing to get to know the community
settle back into N. Ireland life after Just this summer, the team were really even better as we progress this next
returning from South Africa. excited to welcome their neighbours chapter for JD Hunter & Co.”
for their first family fun day BBQ. A
Now that the dust has settled we great day was had by all with inhouse We look forward to seeing the JD Hunter
managed to pinch Dermott for a butcher Adrian grilling up a storm, brand continue to grow and prosper
quick cuppa to catch up on his face painting, balloon modelling and thanks to the enthusiasmand dedication
journey to date; special appearances from Minecraft of Dermott and his team.
Steve and the LOL Dolls. To top off the
12 entertainment, local country duo The

Retail News Staff Matters 2019

Peter McBride joins InterSPAR
Executive Committee

This summer we were thrilled to learn The group gathers twice a year for a two-
that SPAR International appointed day meeting held in a different country,
independent SPAR retailer Peter McBride and at Congress during the shareholders’
to the InterSPAR Executive Committee, meeting of SPAR International B.V.
thanks to his extensive experience and
strong support of SPAR. They visit stores in the host country to gain
a better understanding of the local market
Over the past 30 years, the McBride Retail and hear at firsthand what is happening in
Group has consistently delivered for local all SPAR member countries.
shoppers, providing over 460 secure jobs
across 12 sites. The InterSPAR Executive also review
plans for all future strategies of SPAR
As an Ulster Guild Board member, Peter International and debate international
was elected to the National Guild of SPAR issues to be investigated.
as a Board member in 2009 and is also
President of Retail NI. As an all too familiar face within the
Henderson Group we know Peter will do
The InterSPAR Executive Committee a sterling job representing SPAR retailers
operates similarly to SPAR UK’s Guild, internationally.
with 12 representatives, comprised of five
wholesale members from prominent SPAR restuPaRcieclet2aeae9wsdrs’aamsanrctdodotsrh3neo0itsani.nbypuoeaeaugdrtess
countries, five retail members and two
seats held by SPAR International.

13

Staff Matters 2019 Retail News

SPAR Ballyhalbert
celebrates 10 years as part
of the local community!

Since 2009, owners Ian and Carolyn
Miskimmin have been providing every
day essentials and services from the
store on Ballyhalbert’s High Street and
have continued to build on their store to
become a community hub for the village.

In May of this year, Ian and Carolyn
completed a refurbishment of the store,
adding to their already impressive offering.
Not only can shoppers now navigate the
store better, they can also avail of a greater
range of fresh, locally sourced products
including an in-store butcher counter from
H&J Carnduff as well as a hot food and a
Glastry Farm ice cream counter.

Adding to the convenience offered,
shoppers can now use a self-checkout as
well as the usual Post Office, ATM, Barista
Bar in-store coffee and lottery services.

Better Range & Even More Following the complete refit and update, A full range of wines, beers and spirits
Value at SPAR Lisnarick the Lisnarick store now boasts a total floor are available in the store’s fully-stocked
space of just 2292 sq. ft. with many new Vineyard off licence and there is also a
Summer 2019 saw the completion of a products and services offering greater range of Belleek Living home fragrances
significant investment for SPAR Lisnarick choice and value for local customers. and Galway Crystal stemware to catch
providing an extended store offering your eye.
right in the heart of the community. The ‘Passionate About Local’ and freshness
progressive family business is owned by is a key focus throughout the store with With 30 free car parking spaces and
Catherine Maguire, who was delighted over 75 per cent of fresh produce sourced modern Top Oil fuel pumps, it’s now even
to be able to bring this state-of-the-art locally including a variety of enticing more convenient to visit SPAR Lisnarick;
convenience store to the local area. produce from Fermanagh suppliers. a one-stop-shop for all.
Archie’s Diner is on hand to serve a variety
of freshly prepared, hot and cold food until
3pm daily as well as their infamous range
of baked goods.

14

Charity News Staff Matters 2019

Creightons winners, with all monies raised going
Raise £8,000 directly towards the stores’ nominated
charities.
for local cancer
charities Finally team Creightons had 30 staff
members cross the finish line at this
Two local cancer charities have been year’s Belfast City Marathon. While
boosted by £8,000 thanks to a huge this was the most gruelling of all the
fundraising drive by the challenges, those who took part felt it
team at Creightons. was the most rewarding and enjoyed
the team morale and camaraderie while
Staff across the group’s three training rigorously for the big event.
supermarkets in South Belfast decided Thanks to the generous sponsorship of
to raise funds for Cancer Fund for customers and friends, the marathon
Children and Friends of the Cancer runners contributed a huge amount to
Centre; two charities close to many of the overall fundraising total and helped
the stores’ employees. push this figure over the £8,000 mark.

Pauline Elliott, Store Manager at
Creightons’ Blacks Road, kickstarted
the fundraising drive back in April with
an Easter raffle for a grand prize kindly
donated by master chocolatiers, Lindt.
Her passion for making a difference in
her local community was infectious and
she motivated all staff to contribute to
the campaign.

In addition to supporting the important
work of both charities, many of the
fundraising activities encouraged
Creighton’s staff to take stock of their
own health and get active. A 5-a-side
football tournament was organised and
hosted at Colin Glen outdoor pitches.
Staff members and their families took to
the pitch and battled it out to be crowned

15

Staff Matters 2019 Charity News

Kelly’s Supermarkets Reaches £100K
Milestone for Cancer Fund for Children

Kelly’s staff members from right across day was packed full of family activities team to take action and try to support
the group began to raise money and including tree-top jumps, zorbing and their efforts as best we could. When we
awareness for the work of Cancer Fund quad biking followed by an evening of started this partnership 8 years ago, we
for Children in 2011 with a simple bucket entertainment by rising star, James had no idea how successful it would go
collection in stores. Seeing how much Bradley and a barbecue, prepared by the on to be and I am so proud that we have
the cause resonated with staff and group’s inhouse chefs. raised over £100K for such a worthy
customers alike, the group decided cause.”
to do more to try and make a larger The day itself raised £13,800 which when
donation to the charity. added to the total collected to date, And the fundraising hasn’t stopped…
helped surpass the £100,000 mark. This Christmas JC Stewarts launched a
Since 2011, they have organised charity Christmas Daisy Tree appeal for which
walks, disco nights, and got behind our Lauryn Kelly, charity events organiser says staff and shoppers are asked to donate
initiatives such as the community coffee the group is immensely proud of every Christmas presents to be distributed
mornings and Christmas Parties, to help member of the team who helped support amongst families within the Cancer Fund
raise much needed funds for the charity. the fundraising. for Children network. The idea began after
a local family from Magherafelt saw that
Members of the team have also taken “I have worked closely with cancer Fund Kelly’s stores were supporting Cancer
part in Cancer Fund for Children-led for Children for a number of years now. Fund for Children and wanted to become
trekking expeditions, scaling heights in Taking part in the Grand Canyon Trek was involved as they had benefitted directly
Vietnam; The Grand Canyon and The a life changing trip for me alone. It helped from the charity.
Rockie Mountains. me understand the extent this Charity
goes to help and reach out to local families
More recently, the group organised a diagnosed with cancer. People I know
Charity Funday at The Jungle NI which myself, and people I’ve met along the way.
was attended by customers, family and Seeing the life changing work carried out
friends from each of the 10 stores. The by Cancer Fund for Children inspired our

16

Charity News Staff Matters 2019

Valuable Visit to Vietnam for
Cancer Fund for Children

6 of our Head Office staff tackled the WRONG! Nothing prepared us for what
elements of Vietnam in October in their was ahead. Difficult trekking conditions
quest to raise money for Cancer Fund for confronted us on a daily basis ranging
Children. from steep climbs, inclines and jungle
conditions covered in leeches. The heat
Now that she’s picked the last leech from was also in excess of 30 degrees every day,
her hair and is back eating meat and spuds so that added to the struggle. However,
we caught up with trekker and Ambient the camaraderie from the team and the
Trading Manager, Michelle Dineen… other trekkers pulled us through. In total we
trekked approx. 100 miles over the course
Most of the team signed up for the trek the of 6 days.
previous year so we had plenty of time to
fundraise and organise events to raise the At night we stayed in local homestays
funds both as individuals and as a team which comprised of large rooms with roll
together. One of the great things about the mattresses on the floors. Not what we were
group was we all pulled together and helped used to but proved comfortable enough. I
collectively to raise what was required, think the only obstacle we had to overcome
without this team effort it may have proven was the snoring from the men’s rooms!
difficult to do on our own.
Food was made every night by a family
We organised various events from raffles, team that followed us throughout the
street collections, selling SPAR Cowboy trek. This generally contained sticky rice,
hats at the Balmoral show to our own with main dishes comprising of chicken,
individual Just Giving pages which we all vegetables or beef and various soups.
shared on our own social media platforms. Some of the team struggled with the food
Some of the team even under took their as watching it being killed and prepared put
own charity football days and a 1,500 mile some of the trekkers off, however it you
cycle around the Transatlantic way. We also didn’t eat you went without, so everyone at
received great support from the Company least tried something.
along the way.
Overall the experience was truly humbling
In total as a group we have raised almost as you trekked alongside families who
£50,000, so are very proud of what we not only had siblings affected by cancer
achieved and thank all those who came and helped by the charity, but also with
along to our events or popped a pound in individuals who had overcome cancer
our raffle buckets! themselves and were using the trek to help
them through their recovery.
Having been on a Trek 7 years previous to
Peru and some of the other members to My advice to anyone considering doing a
various other treks, we all believed after all
the training days at home we were prepared Trek on behalf of any charity is don’t think
enough to face what was ahead of us.
twice, it will be one of the best experiences

of your life. Michelle Dineen

17

Staff Matters 2019 Charity News

of giving

We’ve been there for a lot of life changing moments through our We caught up with Niall Cochrane,
partnerships with Marie Curie, Cancer Fund for Children and Age NI. whose mum Roisin was diagnosed
with bowel cancer in 2018, and how
Marie Curie Marie Curie was a lifeline for them
all in their darkest days.
SPAR NI has been fundraising for Marie Curie NI
since 2017. In that time, you have helped us raise “When mum was diagnosed it hit us
almost £300,000 through various initiatives all very hard. She was given a year to
including the Great Da odil Appeal, Marie Curie’s live and when she took a bad turn in
flagship spring campaign, as well as coming in store October, she just never recovered.
for a cuppa to donate to Northern Ireland’s biggest
Blooming Great Tea Party. “Marie Curie came into our home and
our lives during mums last few weeks
Meet Marie Curie nurse Ruth In such a difficult job, where can and the nurses helped enormously
Keys, from Clogher, Co. Down you find the light? and made us feel safe. They gave the
When did you start working as a family a break from full time care.
nurse for Marie Curie? It is such a rewarding job; I get so many
lovely cards and thank you messages, “It’s a horrible time, but the
I’ve been with Marie Curie for 30 years. which means so much. The kindness of support Marie Curie gives makes it
When I saw the opportunity to apply, I families and how much people sacrifice manageable. Mum always wanted to
jumped at it and never looked back. to keep their loved ones at home will stay at home and Marie Curie nurses
What does your role involve? never cease to amaze me. enabled that.

I cover the Southern and Western Trust, What are your most memorable “Since mum
visiting people’s homes to provide moments? passed away,
care and support. I am also part of the the family have
rapid response service in the Southern I have so many! Most of all, it’s the been doing lots
Trust; an amazing service which meets people and building those special of fundraising for
people’s needs when they are most relationships. I’ve been working with the Marie Curie as
vulnerable, at any hour of the day or fundraising group in the Western Trust a way of saying
night. for over 20 years, and I was privileged to thank you. This
be a runner up in the ‘Nurse of the Year’ June, I ran 147
awards in 1997. I was also chosen to miles over a few
represent Marie Curie in 2012 when The days. I’m trying to do something good,
Queen officially opened Titanic Belfast. out of something that was so bad.

How has Marie Curie changed in
the past 30 years?

There have been major enhancements
to Marie Curie’s services, providing so
many more benefits for families caring
for their loved ones with a terminal
illness at home. And as nurses, we also
have so many more resources available
to help in the community, ensuring we
are prioritising patients’ needs first and
foremost.

18

Charity News Staff Matters 2019

Can you SPAR an Hour 10p
for Marie Curie?
from every purchase from our range
We’re helping Marie Curie build their volunteer network of Daily Deli Christmas Sandwiches
across our communities with our ‘SPAR an Hour’
campaign. Keep an eye on our social media, or search will be donated in support of our
for volunteering opportunities at: charity partners, Marie Curie and
mariecurie.org.uk/sparanhour
Cancer Fund For Children.

For emotional support and practical information about terminal illness, including for family and friends, contact:
0800 090 2309 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk

Cancer Fund for Children

EUROSPAR sta and shoppers have been fundraising for Cancer Fund for
Children, Northern Ireland’s charity for young people and their families living with
cancer, since 2011. Just recently, we hit a very exciting milestone – raising over
£1,000,000!

From our in-store fundraising to our flagship Community Co ee Morning events,
you have been tirelessly lending time and support to this very important charity,
which gives back directly to communities here in Northern Ireland.

How we made it to £1,000,000 £1,000,000 =

We have some of the best million-pound makers in the country! Every single team has been frSCoiphnmeidlcdia5ivra5Ciedl5iansunftCaacalometsmruhilFpoimeupmsuno.endritfftooyrr
an army of fundraisers over the past eight years, taking on Treks from the Mournes to the
Great Wall of China, to mud runs, recipe books, co ee mornings and marathons.

2012 Hug in a Mug recipe 2015 The Bog Run launched, 2017 £750,000 fundraising
book launched! supported by EUROSPAR milestone!

2013 11 Henderson Group 2016 Halfway there! 2018 22 team members
and EUROSPAR team Celebrating £500,000 take on the Grand Canyon
members raise £50K doing raised Trek, raising £81,341.59
the Great Wall of
China Trek 2017 First ever Community 2019 Made it to £1 million!
Co ee Morning raises
£36,000

19

Staff Matters 2019 Charity News

£1,000,000 =

Maisie’s Story bFrNmeuteahnewkedmscr’saabfopsDetrerals5ueis,,ta0yiCtc0LoCs0o.ahDdfnoaogcrmewteirninly.

Here, Wendy and Keith McCandless Daisy Lodge, Cancer Fund for Children’s

whose daughter Maisie May was purpose-built therapeutic centre in

diagnosed with cancer at just eight Newcastle, Co. Down also wouldn’t exist

months old, tell us just how important without the funds raised for the charity.

Cancer Fund’s services are. We arrived there the day we learned that

Maisie May is a typical little toddler, she Maisie would need another six months
is mischievous, so hilariously funny and of chemo. We were devastated. But our
energetic, and we’re just so happy to see short break at Daisy Lodge was a life line.

her thriving after the first 18 months of Some of the best memories of Maisie’s

her life. early life were made possible because

When I returned from my first day of Cancer Fund for Children, like taking
of work after maternity leave, we her to visit Santa. That’s not something
discovered a lump in Maisie’s tummy. we thought we would ever be able to do
We took her to the doctor the next day with our little girl.

who sent us straight up to Antrim Area You just can’t put into words what this

Hospital; after seeing three doctors, we money will do for the families being

got one diagnosis – Maisie had a Wilmes helped by the charity, and how many

Tumour and would need chemotherapy, more services Cancer Fund for Children

which started the following week. will be able to run because of the

Everything happened so quickly. £1,000,000.

It was within her first week of treatment Maisie is now in remission and we count
that we learned about Cancer Fund for every day as a blessing with her, and
Children. We met Lynn, our Cancer Fund we want to say a huge thank you to
for Children Specialist who visited us at everyone who has supported Cancer
the hospital, helped us make what sense Fund for Children, and to EUROSPAR
we could of everything, and she was a shoppers who have been so, so
light in a very dark time. It is important generous over the past eight years.
specialists like Lynn that the fundraising
pays for, and that is worth so much.

VMieatynbagemivaitfnrtgeekrtrroeenkakPdiGinng1g7aaygbooou?uftatnhcey

cIofmsof,oermdaeuitplaacinlosnmoain.nrCgoagtnreerckse@rtohFueBnnoddrnefeorsoro.Cnh-igldroreunp’.s

20

Charity News Staff Matters 2019
onhieneaiocsAagrfselsettushahoe,seudsairbnnewpgdmiegolsygefpoeanbucscteliteiaeca.pttowiaumolbinlellic
Age NI apnseodEuwouvptperhepllaerleobydirwrevytciisientcaaohgerrve,ds,ecreeAasrrmgr3tveehe,i7craNn0eontIs0uida.g,h
21
In the two years our VIVO
stores and shoppers have
been fundraising for Age NI,
you’ve helped us raise almost

£20,000. We’ve enjoyed

hosting events such as the
Love Later Life Coffee Morning,
while stores have had their own
events which have kept the
pennies and pounds rolling in,
from basket dashes to colouring
competitions, dragon boating
and more!

In November of this year VIVO supported Age
NI’s No One Should Have No One campaign,
which aims to provide essential services
to the 78,101 older people who live alone
in Northern Ireland, as well as the 100,000
who tell the charity they only have the TV for
company. Stores hosted pop in info mornings
encouraging shoppers to join them for a
cuppa and a chat to find out more about Age
NI services.

We caught up with Martin who told us just how
essential Age NI’s services are to him…

“When I found out I had dementia I was in a
really bad place. Now, when I’m feeling down,
I can pick up the phone to Pat and Sharon at
Age NI and know I have someone to talk to.
They help me get about and out of the house,
and nothing is ever too much hassle.

“I have four sons and they’re all fantastic and
so supportive, but you can’t expect them to
all stop working. By getting support from Age
NI some of the burden has been lifted from
their shoulders. They have peace of mind and
know that I’m in safe hands when they can’t
be there.

“Without Age NI I’d have no life, my sons
would have no life. I have no doubt that
without Age NI’s help I wouldn’t be here
today.”

Age NI Advice Service

For advice & information
call freephone 0808 808 7575

(8am - 7pm 365 days a year)

Email:
[email protected]

Staff Matters 2019 Charity News

Helping Make a
Change For Life

Over 840,000 people die every year from
diseases directly caused by unsafe water,
inadequate sanitation and poor hygiene
practices in countries like Uganda. That’s
why this October and November we
partnered with Tearfund to help make a
‘Change for Life’.

Collection tins and buckets were placed
at tills across stores in Northern Ireland,
as well as encouraging online donations.
The campaign was supported by a
comprehensive marketing campaign
and our commitment to match every £1
donated.

Considering that just £6 will help bring life-
saving water and hope for two people and
their community in Uganda we are excited
to find out the fundraising total of this
years campaign in the coming days.

At the end of 2018 Tearfund gave four Rona no longer has sickness in her home.
employees the opportunity to visit She and her children have been given the
Uganda and Rwanda to meet families tools for a better, healthier and safer life.
who are living in poverty, as well as Her children are able to go to school and
those who have been lifted out of those look forward to a better future.
situations thanks to Tearfund.
Support like this is just a flavour of the
Whilst there they met with Rona who lives remarkable differences funds raised
in extreme poverty in Uganda and her through this year’s campaign can enable
eight children often got sick due to lack of in communities across Africa.
water sanitisation. When Rona took part
in training provided by Tearfund’s local
partner, she built a rainwater catchment
tank to get clean water, and now has a
latrine – a tippy tap to wash her hands and
keep her clean pots above the ground.

22

Charity News Staff Matters 2019
23
Henderson Group
Social Club

As always, the Henderson Group Social Club have had an action-packed
calendar of events including:

February June

Abba Murder Mystery Night in Day trip to Glasgow
Belfast Castle
September
March
Tayto Park Day Out
Forestside Cookery School
(Making Thai Red Curry & Sticky November
Toffee Pudding)
Forestside Cookery School
March (Making Roast Chicken Risotto
and Hot Chocolate Fondant)
Shipquay Hotel Overnight Stay

May

2 Day Trip to London

This years panto visit to Beauty And The Beast has been the most popular
year to date with 400 staff members and their families attending.

Walking and Photography Clubs started later this year with the intention of
meeting once a month. If you are interested in joining either group e-mail
[email protected].

Every year they give a donation to charity and ask members to nominate
which charity to receive the donation via-mail vote in December. This
year they raised a tremendous total of £2,500 which was split between
Pancreatic Cancer UK and Cancer Fund For Children - Well Done to all
involved!

If you wish to join the Social Club e-mail
[email protected] and
CC [email protected] to confirm
your membership. It’s just £3 per month to join and
the company matches your joining fee.

It’s your chance to have your say on what events are
organised, the places visited and clubs set up. The
more ideas the better.

Staff Matters 2019 Charity News

Breaker Breaker
Truck Show

Hundreds of lorry drivers parked
up at Nutt’s Corner on Saturday
24th August in a mission to raise
awareness for men’s mental Health.

The event was organised by a family who lost their loved one to
suicide inspiring them to organise the event and highlight the
issues of men’s mental health in an endeavour to spread this life-
saving message, particularly within the haulage industry.
We were proud to be part of the touring fleet with three Henderson
Wholesale units and one Henderson Foodservice rigid taking
part on the day. These entrants helped contribute to the overall
fundraising total as well as our product support providing drinks
and snacks for those who attended.
The day wasn’t just about raising awareness but also about
offering practical help via health checks. Overall the event was
a day of great family fun which started important conversations
surrounding mental health encouraging those who are struggling
to reach out and talk to someone.

24

Charity News Staff Matters 2019

‘Wild’ 1,490 Mile 6E0x,0p0e0ndkecdal 102 hours
Fundraising Cycle
total ride time
Our very own Darren Murray, and friend that’s 12.75 hours
Paul, completed the Transatlantic Way per day
Challenge earlier this year in aid of Cancer
Fund for Children. It may have taken a day 25
longer than expected, travelling almost
100 miles further than anticipated and
enduring an extra 30,000 feet of climbs,
but nonetheless they finished it!

Leaving Dublin on Friday 6th June the
pair cycled through Omagh, Gortin and
Plumbridge, via Derry to Malin Head. From
there they followed the Wild Atlantic Way
down the west coast of Ireland before
concluding the journey in Kinsale.

Weather was not on their side as they
battled rain and strong headwinds
matched with the aching limbs and joints.
A colossal 1,490 miles were travelled
tackling 90,120ft in elevation changes,
which is the equivalent of scaling Everest
three times!

As if the cycle wasn’t a great enough
challenge they also had to be self-
sufficient over the week-long activity
carrying everything they needed on the
frame of their bikes.

While exhausted by their efforts, the pair
admitted they have learnt a lot from the
experience, although they would have
preferred kinder weather conditions.

As they cycled the Just Giving donation
emails spurred them onto the finish line
raising a fantastic

£6054.45

for the charity.

Staff Matters 2019 EVENTSCHARITYCharityNews

Belfast Castle & Europa Abseil NI Hospice Gardening Days To date, 2019 has
been a very enjoyable
and productive year for the
HFL Charity team, with many
different activities taking place,
from Golf Days to “Days at the
Races” and from sweepstakes

to weekly dress downs.

Causeway Coastal Walk Halloween Fancy Dress & Match the Baby

There’s still a few months left though, and
we are aiming to ensure we finish 2019
with a bang!

STILL TO COME...

Cork Cyclathon
Simon Community Lunch
Christmas Driver Day
Christmas Raffle

AND...

26

Charity News Staff Matters 2019

CathalMeet the Director
Geoghegan

e,

e Henderson Foodservice,
Managing Director
s

Where did you work before What’s your favourite thing about your Opera House. The thespian hired to play
Hendersons? job? Ariel, the roller-skating robot to the crowds
Immediately prior to joining Henderson The variety is superb, however the most outside the Opera House on Great Victoria
Foodservice, I worked for The Mount satisfying part of the job is when I’m out in Street as part of the launch of the summer
Charles Group. I was Managing Director the business meeting with our customers, season, failed to show up. Thus the ‘any
for 6 years and Financial Director for the 12 hearing of how their businesses are other duties’ element of my contract
years beforehand. Prior to Mount Charles, growing and we in Foodservice have kicked into action and I found myself
I worked for 3 years with The Jurys Doyle positively affected that growth. press-ganged into the role to promote the
Hotel Group as Chief Accountant based forthcoming sci-fi musical, The Return to
at The Hotel &Towers at Ballsbridge in Now over to the serious stuff… the Forbidden Planet.
Dublin. Prior to that I was Finance Officer
at The Grand Opera House for four years If you could have any superpower what I think they chose me because they were
– this role also involved a bit of singing and would it be and why? looking for a 6ft plus bloke in a hurry, rather
dancing on the side! The ability to time travel. I would love than on the basis of any innate acting
the ability to go back in time in order to ability!
First Impression of Hendersons? remember what it was like when Liverpool
I was delighted to join the team at won the League! Sadly, a glittering Hollywood career failed
Henderson Foodservice. I found the to materialise and I did not become
foundations of the business to be What would the title of your the next Colin Farrell. The experience
extremely strong and the complexity in the autobiography be and why? of working at the Grand Opera House
solutions provided to a diverse customer The Red with No Regrets! however opened the door to new and
base was a testament to the level of service The Red reference will be apparent to a lot equally exciting possibilities nevertheless.
and commitment from the entire team. of my Foodservice colleagues, whereby It was really my first job that was not fully
From my initial weeks in the business it was I follow the Mighty Reds, Liverpool. The finance focused. It was about the ability to
very evident Henderson Foodservice had second element is a reference to the fact work with and support other departments.
a fantastic opportunity with our wealth we only get one chance in this life, it isn’t It served as vital preparation for my future
of talent and capability to continue the a dress rehearsal and thus we need to live roles.
exceptional development across the island life to the full and grasp every opportunity
of Ireland. So much so the management with both hands. A word of caution therefore to all my
team have set a clear five-year strategy Henderson colleagues…watch out for
with ambitious plans to grow the business Do you have any fears or phobias? your line manager enforcing the “any
in both revenue and regional sectors. No real phobia to mention…the fear of other duties clause” of your contract of
failure however probably drives me on in a employment.
In no more than 100 words describe business context.
your typical day: Quick fire round:
It’s very simple, there are no typical days Do you have any hobbies? Chocolate or crisps? Has to be crisps. My
in Foodservice. It’s an extremely fast- My week days disappear very quickly, I wife and kids are chocoholics, which veers
moving environment to work in, but one therefore love spending time with my me away from chocolate.
that is extremely satisfying from a work family at the weekends. I’m also a keen Favourite movie? The Shawshank
perspective. The extremes of the business sports fan and follow Liverpool, Galway Redemption
mean that one day I could be out in the hurling and Donegal football teams for my Tea or Coffee? Tea, although I love the
field with one of our sales team, another sins. I also like to unwind when possible by smell of coffee I can’t have the taste of
day over in England meeting with fellow attempting to hit a small white ball around it. Trevor, if you’re reading this your 2020
members of the buying group we own, Knock Golf Club. objective is still live!!
Country Range Group, whereas another Favourite Holiday destination? Rome,
day (which is currently the case) could be Tell us something interesting Italy.
spent on setting budgets for the incoming about you: Cats or Dogs? Definitely dogs.
financial year. I instinctively knew I was destined for more Describe yourself in three words?
than just a career in finance. Yet that new Approachable, dependable and
career path presented itself in a highly determined.
unorthodox manner during my first week
working as Finance Officer at the Grand

27

Staff Matters 2019 Awards

Forecourt Trader Ireland’s Forecourt &Convenience Retail
Awards Awards

Record Breaking Results for Best Use of Category Management
Retailers Racking up over 20 Mulkerns EUROSPAR
awards at the UK and Ireland’s
Most Prestigious Award Training Initiative of the Year
Ceremonies Henderson Retail

WOW what a year! We couldn’t be Best Site Manager - Samuel McCann, Forecourt and Convenience Store of the
prouder of our retailers who racked up EUROSPAR Carrick Milestone Year - Creightons Of Balmoral
over 20 awards in just three nights at Retail Industry Awards
some of the most prestigious national
retail awards ceremonies across the UK Community Retailer of the Year (Multiple) -
and Ireland. Henderson Retail

At this year’s Forecourt Trader Awards, Independent Retailer of the Year (Over
Retail Industry Awards and Ireland’s 6,000sq ft) Swifts EUROSPAR Lisnaskea
Forecourt & Convenience Retailer Awards
we brought home 24 gongs for excellence
in fresh produce, independent, community
and company-operated retailing, not
forgetting our food-to-go offering.

At the Retail Industry Awards in London, Northern Ireland over 4mlpa
often regarded as a benchmark of EUROSPAR Wallace Village
excellence in the retail industry, SPAR and
EUROSPAR store managers dominated in Best Soft Drinks Outlet
the Store Manager of the Year category, EUROSPAR Donegall Road
taking away the winner for Independent
(Thomas Magennis, Mulkerns’ EUROSPAR,
Newry) and Multiple (Joanne Walker,
EUROSPAR Donegall Road, Belfast)
while Jennifer Donaghy (SPAR Holywood
Road, Belfast) brought home the highly
commended. Store Team of the Year was
taken home by the VIVO Essential’s store,
Mountjoy Filling Station in Omagh.

Meanwhile, at the Forecourt Trader
Awards also in London, Samuel
McCann (EUROSPAR Carrick Milestone,
Carrickfergus) was awarded the Best Site
Manager Accolade, whilst EUROSPAR
Donegall Road was awarded Best Soft
Drinks outlet. Two of our newest stores
and supermarkets, SPAR Fortfield and
EUROSPAR Wallace Village won regional
Forecourt of the Year titles.

And at Ireland’s Forecourt & Convenience Northern Ireland up to 4mlpa
Retail Awards in Dublin, Mulkerns’ SPAR Fortfield
EUROSPAR won Best Use of Category
Management, Creighton’s of Balmoral won
Forecourt & Convenience Store of the Year
and Henderson Retail won Best Training
Initiative.

Mark McCammond, Retail Director at the
Henderson Group commented; “We have
many of the best retail managers and most
highly committed store teams trading
from well invested, contemporary retail
outlets.”

Let’s take a look at the
Wall of Fame:

28

Awards Staff Matters 2019

Post Office Retailer of the Year
(Managed Store) - SPAR Greystone

StoreManageroftheYear&FreshProduceRetailer
of the(Independent)MulkernsEUROSPAR

Convenience Retail Awards

Henderson Retail celebrated a seventh won Best Chilled Food Retailer, while the
consecutive year of team members Best Communication to Shoppers award
excelling in customer service at this year’s went to SPAR Loughbrickland in County
Convenience Retail Awards. Down.

Store Manager of the Year (Multiple) Fiona Addis from EUROSPAR Ardglass, The Convenience Retail Awards describe
EUROSPAR Donegall Rd picked up the Sales Assistant of the Year themselves as “a platform to recognise
award making her the ninth team member and celebrate all the hard work and
Store Team of the Year - Mountjoy Filling to pick up one of multiple awards since commitment put in by convenience
Station, ViVo Essentials 2008. store owners” and are widely respected
throughout the UK’s retail sector.
Alongside the customer service awards,
Henderson Retail and Wholesale also took Peter McBride, owner of the McBride
home store accolades at the event, which Retail Group including Mullaghmore
took place at the Regency Hotel in London. commented; “It is a huge honour to take
EUROSPAR Donegall Road picked up Best home a prestigious UK-wide award. It is a
Large Convenience Store and Food-to- testament to the range of products and
Go Retailer of the Year (large store) and services delivered by the team in Omagh.
McBride’s SPAR Mullaghmore in Omagh I am also extremely proud to have been a
finalist in the Best Multiple Store category
against three other impressive retailers.”

Independent Retailer of the Year
(3,000-6,000sq ft.) EUROSPAR Fintona

29

Staff Matters 2019 Awards

Star Studded Line Taking On Global Retail Giants at IGD Awards
Up At That 21st
Neighbourhood Henderson Retail was the only NI retailer to be shortlisted amongst the best of the
Retailer Awards global FMCG industry for the annual IGD Awards.
The awards celebrate the biggest and best achievements in the industry through four
SPAR and EUROSPAR stores once again strands; Business Excellence, People, Personal Development and Sustainable Business,
dominated the annual Neighbourhood and Henderson Retail appeared on the shortlist twice for the first time this year.
Retailer Awards which took place at the Shortlisted in the Small Store of the Year (Business Excellence) and the John Sainsbury
Crowne Plaza, Shaw’s Bridge in Belfast in Learning & Development (Personal Development) categories we were extremely proud
November. to be the only locally based retailer in the running. We are particularly proud for SPAR
Fortfield, to be in the running against international retailers for Small Store of the Year.
The awards marks one of the most
important days in the local retailing Double Triumph at Belfast Telegraph Business Awards
calendar, as retailers from all sectors
go head-to-head to win one of the 18 Henderson Wholesale were awarded the Excellence in Marketing accolade, sponsored
individual categories – including the by Phoenix Natural Gas, for their ‘Find Your InSPARation’ campaign at this years Belfast
coveted Retailer of the Year accolade. Telegraph Awards.
The Ulster University Business School backed Excellence in the Development of
Lifetime Achievement Award Management and Leadership was presented to Henderson Foodservice. This award
highlights the team’s development of a more effective future-proofed leadership
Peter McBride and development strategy helping to increase employee engagement and reduced
recruitment costs in line with staff retention.
Neighbourhood Retailer of the Year We were very proud to be amongst almost 500 of Northern Ireland’s brightest and best
business people who attended the black-tie event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast
JC Stewarts Magherafelt hosted by BBC NI presenter Mark Simpson.
Winner’s trophies and highly commended certificates were presented to small and large
Forecourt Store of the Year, businesses and organisations across 13 categories.
Category 2 with convenience store
(1,751 sq ft plus)

EUROSPAR Brackenvale

Neighbourhood Store of the Year
Category 3 (3,501 to 7,000 sq ft)

Creightons of Finaghy

Newcomer of the Year

SPAR Fortfield

Fresh Food Store of the Year

JC Stewarts Magherafelt

Best Customer Service

SPAR Parkgate

Deli of the Year

Creightons of Balmoral

Congratulations to all
SPAR and EUROSPAR
winners and finalists!

30

Awards Staff Matters 2019

Investors in People
Accreditation Success

Henderson Wholesale were extremely
proud to achieve the Silver Investors in
People accreditation earlier this year. This
award is testament of the huge team that
provide an array of support services for
retailers; everything from marketing to
training and IT services.

This accreditation was complimented
by the Gold Standard recognition for
Henderson Retail and Henderson
Foodservice, as well as an Accredited
Award for Henderson Group Property,
all demonstrating our commitment to
achieving outstanding performance through
excellent people management practices.

Wellbeing at Sam Davidson, Group HR Director, talks of
Work Finalist the honour being recognised within these
prestigious awards brings;
This May we were delighted to be
shortlisted amongst 10 companies for “People are the key to the success of
the Wellbeing at Work Award, part of Henderson Group that’s why we are
the Responsible Business Awards in determined to provide a workplace
Northern Ireland. environment that is healthy and enjoyable
around our Tomorrow Matters CSR
Being shortlisted for this award strategy. Our wellbeing programme,
demonstrates our excellence in inspiring WellAware, offers a convenient hub of
and supporting employees to prioritise information and resources accessible to
health and wellbeing and embrace everyone in the Group with timely and
positive lifestyle choices. pertinent health information at your
fingertips.”

Henderson Group
Handed RoSPA
Order of Distinction
Award for health and safety

practices

Henderson Group was handed a
prestigious award in recognition of its
practices and achievements in helping
its staff get home safely at the end of the
working day.

Henderson group achieved an Order of
Distinction - 15 consecutive Golds, in the
internationally renowned RoSPA Health
and Safety Awards, the longest-running
industry awards scheme in the UK.

They were presented with the award
during a ceremony at DoubleTree by Hilton
Glasgow Central in Septemebr, when the
team travelled over for the event.

The RoSPA Awards scheme, which receives
entries from organisations around the
world, recognises achievement in health
and safety management systems,
including practices such as leadership and
workforce involvement.

31

Staff Matters 2019 Awards

Julie is top of the stocks with This is not the first time Julie has achieved great to see such talent flourish from
1st place exam marks top marks; in 2016 she was placed first within our organisation.”
in Ireland and 15th worldwide in the F6
Massive congratulations to Julie Alexander Taxation exam and first in Ireland and 13th Julie said of her wins; “I’m really proud to
who achieved the top exam results in worldwide for the Audit and Assurance have been placed first in Ireland for the
Ireland for her P6 Advanced Taxation exam, exam in 2017. third time, and delighted that my hard
as well as taking the ninth place worldwide. work has paid off!”
Julie, has been working within the finance Ron Whitten, Chief Financial Officer,
teams for the past three years and commented on the awards; “Our
picked up the award at the Association of congratulations go to Julie. This is a
Chartered Certified Accountants Winners testament to her hard work and study
(ACCA) Lunch. towards her qualifications. Julie is a huge
asset to Henderson Wholesale and it is

Mulkern’s EUROSPAR tops Store owner Terry Mulkerns said “Every
the poll in province-wide accolade is special but to win a public vote
Independents’ Day campaign really means a lot to his team.

Mulkern’s EUROSPAR in Newry was It’s a huge honour to have topped the poll
crowned Northern Ireland’s best and be named NI’s favourite convenience
convenience store as a result of a ‘People’s store, especially as this was a result of our
Vote’ run by local trade body, Retail NI and customers taking the time to vote for us.
the Irish News. The awards were part of an
initiative which encourages shoppers to We’ve worked hard over the past number
support independent retailers on July 4th of years to improve the store and thanks to
as part of Independents’ Day. the hard work and exceptional customer
service of our colleagues, this seems
The campaign asked the public to vote to have paid off. It’s really important
for their favourite independently owned to me that the store is part of our local
butchers, deli, clothing store, pharmacy, community in Newry and we’re proud to
coffee shop and convenience store. support various charities and causes that
Thousands of voters went online to cast we know really matter to our shoppers.”
their vote in a poll making this an amazing
achievement for the store.

32

Awards Staff Matters 2019

Store
Colleague
of the Year
Awards

This year saw the launch of the first ever
store colleague of the year awards.
The hunt was on for those brilliant
store colleagues who spread a little
magic wherever they go. Retailers were
encouraged to nominate a colleague who
has gone above and beyond in store.
Over 800 nominations were received
sharing amazing examples and stories
showing how colleagues have really
brought the company Core Values to life
and for the difference they have made to
our customers, communities and each
other.

All store colleagues were invited to a
very special celebration event at the
Europa Hotel on 12th November where
Store Colleague of the Year Awards were
presented to one deserving individual
from every store.

A great day was had by all recognising the
hard work and determination of many of
our staff members. You’ll be able to spot
our Colleagues of the Year winners as
they will have a gold badge on their name
badge so make sure and say well done in
store if you see them.

Congratulations to all prize
winners and finalists!

33

Staff Matters 2019 Department News

Our Group
Core Values

Our Core Values sit at the heart of our
organisation and are the guiding principles
behind how we should behave and conduct
our business.

They are based on:
• what we stand for
• how we expect each other to behave
• what we want the business to be

Our core values aren’t just words on a page, they’re fundamental to the way
we act and should influence everything we do, including:
• how we interact with each other
• how we interact with our customers
• how we interact with our suppliers, business partners, and the community

We’ve defined the meanings of our values, and these are really important and we
need to use them consistently so we all have the same understanding. It’s up to
us to bring the values to life, whatever role we do or wherever we sit in
the organisation.

What does it feel like when we live our values?
• A supportive environment built on collaboration and shared ambition
• We feel engaged and inspired to be the best we can be
• Customers feel valued through better experience
• Our leaders are supportive and challenge us to be our best
• We celebrate success and learn as we grow
• Our values guide our judgement and behaviours

Our continued success depends on each one of us doing our part to uphold
the values in our day-to-day work.

Ambition ‘We always strive to be better’
Customers First ‘We provide exceptional service’
Teamwork ‘We succeed together’
Integrity ‘We are fair, honest, and ethical’

ACT with Integrity

We launched the new values along with our Group Core Purpose in February
of this year. We have since delivered several workshops to departments within
HWL using a values based game. The values are live on the KIT app, being used
by Henderson Retail and were also recently launched to logistics. There are a
number of initiatives in the pipeline to keep an eye out for as we continue to
ensure the values are at the heart of everything we do.

34

Department News Staff Matters 2019
35
Training and
Development

Leadership
Development

We are now in our 3rd year of delivering
our bespoke 4-tiered Leadership
Development Pathway.
This pathway provides opportunities
for development of leadership skills,
commercial awareness and networking
with colleagues from across the business.

Aspiring Leaders
Emerging Leaders
Developing Leaders

SPAR Future Leaders
Programme 2019

In July Ciaran Haren (Wholesale Sales) &
John Fox (Henderson Retail) attended
the SPAR Future Leaders Programme in
Cardiff. This was a fantastic opportunity
to meet with people from SPAR networks
across the world.

Henderson
Group Logistics
Apprenticeship
Scheme 2019

Following the success of the 2018
Logistics Apprenticeship programme we
have now recruited a further group of
Apprentices who joined us in October.

The programme includes a
comprehensive training plan gaining
experience in all areas of logistics as well
as completion of an NVQ in ‘Warehousing
& Storage’ & essential skills.

Dane & Andrew will be based in
Wholesale and Ben & Adam will be based
in Foodservice. We wish them all the best
of luck.

   

Forklift Licence Success
for Apprentices

Staff Matters 2019 Department News

Train the
Trainer

Several employees from across the business
successfully completed the ‘Train the Trainer
Programme’ this year. This 3 day programme
aims to support those employees who facilitate
training sessions or deliver on-the-job
training. From design & delivery of interactive
sessions to assessing & evaluating training, this
interactive programme equips delegates with
the skills and confidence to make their training
a success.

Lunch &
Learn

Lunch & Learn sessions have continued
throughout the year with recent sessions
covering, ‘Cyber Security’, ‘Tobacco to the
Future’, ‘Post Office Insight’ and ‘BP Me’.

Thank-you to all of our volunteers for
facilitating these sessions. They provide a great
opportunity for networking and collaboration.

36

Department News Staff Matters 2019

Health and
Wellbeing

Henderson Group’s approach to Health and
Wellbeing, Well Aware, falls within our ‘Tomorrow
Matters’ Corporate Social Responsibility
framework. There are three strands to ‘Tomorrow
Matters’; people, place, and planet. Well Aware
focuses on the ‘people’ element.

The ‘people’ aim is to work together to create a great place
to work; ensuring staff feel valued, have opportunities to
feedback, fulfil their potential, develop careers, and be
recognised and rewarded. Well Aware aims to support our
employees in improving their physical, psychological, and
social health and wellbeing.

Recap on 2019 Activities

Month Event
February
• Free Health Checks in Head Office – Supported & attended by Cancer Focus NI, Action Mental Health,
Stroke Association, Air Ambulance NI, Belfast Arthroplasty & Research Trust (BART)

• Financial wellbeing - Lunch & Learn hosted by Kith and Kin Wellbeing and free financial advice available
to all employees

May • 6-week Pedometer Challenge – 55 teams from across HWL, HFL, HGPL, and HRL HO pounded the
pavements in our virtual Pedometer Challenge. Over 6 weeks teams walked from Chicago to New York,
completing 77,996 kilometres, almost 2 complete laps of the globe!

• Learning at Work Week

June • Take Care in the Sun Campaign – Health Promotion
• Free 20 Minute Medicals during the HRL Commercial Event

September • Cycle to Work scheme
• Mobile Clinics offering free health checks for employees in HRL stores

October • Free flu vaccinations – 175 people jabbed
• Active Wellness for Sedentary Lifestyles - Lunch & Learn hosted by Active Wellness
• National Restart a Heart Day – hosted by British Heart Foundation and NI Ambulance Service, 25

employees trained on CPR and use of defibs

November • Introduction to Mindfulness - Lunch & Learn hosted by Thrive Coaching Development
• Free 15 minute massages in Head Office, Hydepark, Technology, and Foodservice
• Mobile clinics offering free health checks for BD Foods employees

37

Staff Matters 2019 Department News

Supporting our team in improving their
health and wellbeing in 4 key areas

Better Work Better Relationships

Create a happy and engaging Create a supportive, friendly,
environment where and inclusive workplace

‘good work’ is promoted

Better Physical & Better Specialist Support
Psychological Health
Provide early interventions that
Create an environment that support rehabilitation
promotes healthy behaviours and and recovery

mindsets

38

Department News Staff Matters 2019

World Restart A
Heart Day

On 16th October 12 Head Office staff took
part in this awareness event supported
by – Northern Ireland Ambulance service
& British Heart Foundation.

Awards

Well aware highly commended at the Business in the Well aware highly commended at the Chamber Business
Community Responsible Business Awards in the Wellbeing Awards in the Workplace Wellbeing category
at Work category

Well aware hub

Don’t forget to visit our well aware hub,
our online one-stop shop of information
and support for all things health &
wellbeing.

The site can be accessed via any web-
enabled device using the QR code below,
or by visiting

http://well-aware.wellhub.info

login and password is henderson
(all lower case)

39

Staff Matters 2019 Department News

elp and advice click or
LEGAL ADVICE
WJOOBRKSUFPRPIEONRTD KDNAOTWALBEADSGEE for hHelpline
DVICE
call Available online and via
freephone you can talk to us in
W total confidence 24/7, as long

J as you are working (or have
worked) in the Grocery industry.
D KNOWLEDGE
We can help in so many ways.
Call the Helpline on:

08088 021122

w:
e:

t: 01252 875925

ADSENUPRXPESIPESOIOTNRY&T WHEEALLLBTEHIN&G

SCPAUROPRGREPAROMSRMTE TCDEOELUBENTPSEAHLDOLVNINIEGCE
40 RFSEAULAMPTPIIOLONYSRHDT&IPEPRPESSOSUSIOTPN &IPMOPAERCATTLTH &

Department News Staff Matters 2019

LEGAL ADVICE Seven winter
wellbeing tips
41
1. Organisation is key

Avoid unnecessary stress over the festive season by planning ahead in the run up
to Christmas and being careful not to take on too much. Try and be home promptly
so you can get on top of some ‘home jobs’. Also, you are not being selfish by
saying “no” to some things or asking for some help. For example, if you’re hosting
Christmas dinner, could you ask some of your guests to bring a starter or dessert?

2. You matter!

At Christmas it can be all too easy to get swept up into other people’s ideas of
fun. It’s important to make sure you try to do something you want as well – this is
your holiday too! If you know this will be hard, try booking something in advance or
setting a free day or two aside just for you.

3. Online life

If you do decide to use social media over the festive season, avoid comparing
your experience to those of your friends. Remember that most people only share
the best bits of their lives online and you don’t know what’s going on behind the
smiling selfies and present pictures! The photos never show the stress and chaos
of Christmas!

4. Get outside/exercise

The outdoors is so good for us! Going for a wintery walk, even if it’s just around
the block, can be the perfect way to get some fresh air and exercise along with
a change of place. Being in the same house for too long can get a bit intense,
especially if it’s crowded, so a change of scenery will do everyone good. Exercise
can be great for mental health and there are still ways to keep it up over
Christmas; go for a swim, an exercise class, or have a dance-off to some festive
classics.

5. Try to eat healthily

Whilst it’s fine to indulge over Christmas, try not to go overboard! In-between
social events, try and keep a balance to your diet with some fruit and vegetables.
This can help you to avoid energy lows that can have an effect on your mood.

6. The power of sleep

Recently a lot more research has been done on how crucial sleep is to happiness.
Try to keep to regular sleep patterns as much as possible over the Christmas
period – easier said than done but it will help.

7. Christmas alone

If you’re spending Christmas alone, have a think about what you want to do
beforehand. You may decide to curl up with a favourite movie, book yourself a
getaway, or arrange to go to a lunch. You could also consider volunteering – it’s
no secret that giving something back can help you feel good about yourself. You
might want to consider if there is an elderly person nearby who is also alone. We
know half a million older people will be alone on Christmas day.


Sometimes Christmas can be a challenging time for lots of reasons. The best

present you can give yourself is to prioritise your wellbeing!

H&

Staff Matters 2019 Department News

Sam DavidsonMeetthe Director

Henderson Group,
Human Resources Director

Tell us about your average day in no If you could travel in time, would you
more than 50 words: wish to travel into the past or the
There’s really no average day in my future? And in which year or era would
schedule, as I’m involved in all parts of our you want to live?
Group, each of which have varying needs. I’m not a big believer that many things
My one constant is that I’m always working were better in the past, and often joke that
to build upon our success by making ‘Nostalgia’s not what it used to be’ when
Henderson Group an even more brilliant friends get too sentimental over their
place to work! memories. I’m much more interested in
how our world will develop and would be
What is your fondest memory of your 15 fascinated to see our world in a hundred
years at Hendersons? years’ time, given the increasing power of
It’s hard for me to believe that I’ve been technology to change our lives. And who
here 15 years, and there have been so many knows, maybe someone will have got Brexit
great moments over that time. I would done by then too!
have to say that I will always remember
our times together as a team, whether
at our conferences or when we’re at a
celebration awards evening. I’ve been lucky
to work with so many amazing (and fun!)
colleagues.

Did you always want to work in Human Do you have any obscure party tricks?
Resources? No self-respecting HR Director should
I can honestly say ‘Yes’ to this one, admit to having a party trick, so I’ll plead
although way back in my time at the Fifth Amendment on that question!
University the profession was known
as Personnel Management. I chose the What is the soundtrack of your life?
Industrial Relations stream in my Business That’s almost impossible to answer, but
Administration degree, being a student I can’t remember a time in my entire life
in the 1980’s when there was almost when we didn’t have Beatles records in our
daily national news coverage of strikes home. My Dad was a big fan at the time, and
and disputes, and Margaret Thatcher’s I’ve developed a passion for their music
governments changed the entire culture of which stays with me to this day. My family
workplaces for a generation. must be sick of me constantly singing their
songs around the house or in the car!
What is your proudest career
achievement to date? Quick fire round:
I’ve been really fortunate to have had a
fulfilling career, and look forward to some Chocolate or crisps? Close, but Crisps
great times ahead as well. My proudest Favourite movie? The Commitments. A
moment came in 2018 when the Chartered film about a young soul band set in North-
Institute for Personnel and Development side Dublin in the early ‘90s – a fantastic
Northern Ireland presented me with soundtrack and really funny script. I’ve
a Special Achievement Award for my never tired of watching it!
contribution to the profession. It’s very Tea or Coffee? Tea – sorry Barista Bar
humbling to get an accolade like this from colleagues!
your peers. Favourite Holiday destination? The USA
Cats or Dogs? DOGS!!!
Now over to the serious stuff… Favourite song? Depends on my mood –
either Teenage Kicks by The Undertones, or
The Long and Winding Road by The Beatles.
If I was answering on another day I could
have very different choices though.

42

Department News Staff Matters 2019

New Business
Experience Placements

This year saw the launch of our new So far they have been enjoying the first-
Business Experience Placements as hand experience of the challenges they
we endeavour to grow and support the meet on a daily basis from working within a
future of Henderson Group. high-pressured working environment and
enjoyed opportunities to support our local
The placements aim to bring second year charities initiatives as well as attending
university degree students into roles within Group-wide conferences and team
the company for one year, giving them vital building days.
employment and skills experience upon
graduation. They have been given monthly catch-
up sessions with dedicated mentors
Following recruitment in July 2019, six evaluating their progress, sharing success
placements were awarded within Trading, stories and support with their group
IT, Fresh Foods, Technology, Business initiative.
Improvement and Marketing.
We look forward to supporting the
We have invested over £90,000 in training, students as they continue to flourish
salaries and an abundance of learning within their roles and wish them every
opportunities for the placement students. success!
As well as undertaking their placement
roles, students will be completing a group
project based on a real-life scenario which
they will then present collectively to a
board of senior managers.

43

uf Department News

Staff Matters 2019

KEEP CONNECTED
WITH KiT!

Our new employee communications app.

An easy way to find the latest:

Company News. Employee Benefits. Jobs. Recognition Awards.
Quick Links to Self-Service. Ideas/feedback. Health & Wellbeing.
E-learning and much more!

To download KiT:

Visit: www.myapp.is/kit
Username: insert your email address
usually your personal email address
unless you have a work email
Password: insert your Employee ID/
Payroll number

You’ll find this number on your e-payslip or
ask your Store Manager.

Contact the Connected team below if you need
any help with your username/password details.

You can also scan here to
download the app!

44 For further help or information please contact the team at [email protected]

Department News Staff Matters 2019

Tasty Team Building
Day For Henderson
Group Property

Henderson Group Property had a brilliant The winning team from the morning
team build earlier this year. The day activities consisted of Ian, Emer, Susan,
kickstarted with a business session held in Derek, Stuart and William who took home
the Ramada, taking a look over the last 12 the coveted HGP trophy.
months and getting to grips with the new
Henderson Core Values with a fun escape Valuable Volunteers
the room style workshop and quiz.
In conjunction with BITC NI some of the
The team then spent the afternoon on a staff from Henderson Group Property took
walking food tour around Belfast where park in a volunteering day in October.
they got to sample traditional Irish stew
and a few even got the opportunity to pull The team helped out at a fantastic project
their own pint of Guinness. A few other in West Belfast – Colin Allotments, which
stop offs included Mikes Fancy Cheese are managed by the Colin Neighbourhood
and Sawyers to sample smoked salmon Partnership.
and award winning butter that is sold in
Claridges! Colin Allotments is a community allotment
site used as an educational resource for
schools and community groups and they
often require support with maintenance
around the site. The team prepared
the Public Health Agency beds for the
winter months and helped out with some
maintenance jobs around the allotments.

Well done to everyone involved;
Hannah Coghlan, Damien Teague,
Phillip Cahill, Terence O’Hagan, Jamese
Fitzpatrick, Chris Allen, Terri-Marie Smith,
Darren Conway, Michael Ballentine,
Mark Thompson

45

Staff Matters 2019 Department News

Henderson Star Studded Line Up
Technology’s World at Recent Awards
First Food Waste
Initiative The Belfast Telegraph inaugural IT
awards took place on 8th November in
We were delighted to partner with the The Mac Belfast. Henderson Technology
team at Gander earlier this year to launch were thrilled to be amongst the top
an industry first initiative to help stores professionals from Northern Ireland’s
sell significantly more of their reduced to growing IT industry who attended.
clear, often yellow labelled food.
The team were shortlisted for:
Gander is unique for this industry
as it displays reduced to clear food IT Project Team of the Year –
automatically and in real-time, thanks Development Team under Craig
to our award winning EDGEPoS System Roberts
pushing the reduced food products to
the mobile app, as they are stickered IT Woman of the Year – Gillian Kelly
in-store. Similarly, when that item is sold
it is automatically removed from the app, They were delighted to take home the
providing an instant feed of all reductions gong for Mobile App of the Year, for
in-store at any time making it simple and their work with the team at Gander in
effective. introducing the world’s first real time
answer to the challenge of food waste.
Food waste is a huge issue and we believe Congratulations to all!
that initiatives like this will help us tackle
the moral and environmental problems This success was topped off by their
associated with avoidable food waste. recent shortlist for ‘Innovative Business
of the Year’ and ‘Technology Company
We are delighted to have already had of the Year’ for the 2019 Business Eye
thousands of downloads of the app since Awards.
launching showing how technology can
help tackle real world challenges. Best Wishes for the finals!

If you haven’t already done so download
the Gander app now via the Apple or
Android app stores and start using it in
your local store!

46

Department News Staff Matters 2019

Be a clever
cookie this
Christmas.

Save money on your festive
food shop, so you’ll have more
to spend on the stuff you love.
Download the Gander app now.

JOIN THE GAGGLE Real-time updates on delicious reduced food near you.

@GETGANDER GANDER.CO

47

Staff Matters 2019
48

Staff Matters 2019

Christmas
how it
should be with

Fans of BARISTA BAR, the leading co ee
brand sold in SPAR and EUROSPAR stores
across Northern Ireland, are in a for an extra
Christmas present this year with the launch
of a new festive syrup to celebrate the
holiday season.

The GINGERBREAD WINTER-WARMER

will be available to purchase at over

Try our 370 BARISTA BAR locations across BARISTA BAR’S signature blue cups
WGItNIhNTisGECERhR-rWBisRAtmERAaMsDE. R Northern Ireland and is sure have been given a merry-makeover for
to warm the heart on a cold the holidays, featuring a nod to some of
winter’s day. Northern Ireland’s most iconic scenes.
The eye-catching designs include
The already popular loyalty Mussenden Temple, Carrick-a-Rede Rope
scheme is also ‘sleigh-ing’ it this Bridge and Titanic Belfast; a great excuse
to make a plan to get out and explore
Christmas with even more generous some of these doorstep treasures and
celebrate all things local this Christmas.
o ers and discounts for customers.

Anyone who registers will receive a free hot

drink, so, why not spread some Christmas cheer by paying it

forward or donating to someone in need? These benefits are

not just for Christmas as users can enjoy every tenth drink free

of charge along with a complimentary drink on their birthday.

To help reduce waste, shoppers who remember their reusable

cup will also pick up double points on each hot drink purchased

in store.

Already, BARISTA BAR has sold tens of thousands of its reusable
cups which has made an enormous impact, helping to reduce
the amount of single-use plastic in the local environment.
Thanks to everyone who has already purchased a cup and if you
haven’t, there’s still time to find the perfect stocking-filler.

Finally, be sure to follow BARISTA BAR’s social media accounts for more cracking
Christmas competitions and remember to tag BARISTA BAR in all your festive
snaps using #christmashowitshouldbe

49

Staff Matters 2019 Department News

When you browse the shelves of your local SPAR
store and EUROSPAR supermarket, you’ll find
the best locally sourced products from well-known
suppliers and from our exclusive ranges which
have been created with local farmers, growers
and producers.

We are passionate about local, and over 75% of our fresh food is
sourced locally because we have some of the best food producers in
the world.

Whether you want to try out one of our delicious recipes from scratch
or take the night o , we have it all covered with our range of SPAR enjoy
local, The Kitchen and The Greengrocer’s products this Christmas.

Let us introduce you to our delicious brands,
lovingly created locally for you to enjoy!

A range of fresh fruit and veg that will make getting The Kitchen is a range made up
your five-a-day even more convenient! With over 134 of 70 products that o er super
products, sourced by 16 local suppliers, you’re sure fresh meal solutions for when you’re
to find what you’re looking for. This Christmas pick up looking for quick and easy dinners
your fresh broccoli, Maris Piper potatoes and carrots for one, two, or the whole family! Every
to make your dinner accompaniments. product has been produced by the very best
local suppliers in Northern Ireland, ensuring
freshness and deliciousness!

50