Learning lessons from the past to prepare for the future
Jeff Rogut
December 2012
Earlier this year I wrote about the parlous state of general retail in some areas, and still the whinging from some of our retail ‘leaders’ continues. Rather than showing real leadership, the blame game continues on everything around them and negative attitudes persist.
What a pleasure it was then to hear from two of our presenters at our ‘AACS Convenience Leaders Summit’ who have challenged the status quo, who have been innovative and have certainly shown leadership in their respective areas.
I refer here to Michael O’Loughlin, CEO of Applegreen in the UK and Rob Anderson, Director of APCO Petroleum right here in Geelong Victoria.
Both had inspirational stories of their beginnings and challenges, but both have continued to innovate and lead. Both were start up businesses, Applegreen 20 years in the making and APCO 44 years, yet the ongoing spirit of innovation and challenging the status quo has continued.
It was truly inspirational to hear both Michael and Rob speak of their businesses, their people, their achievements and their visions for the future in the convenience channel that has significant external challenges. And, above all, they are successful in their chosen market niche.
Retailers are usually resilient and what a change it would make to hear inspirational stories of innovation and leadership with a positive attitude from some of our countries biggest retailers. They can take lessons from leaders in our Convenience industry.
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