In last month’s blog I provided a copy of the Andrew Peller Limited news release announcing the purchase of World Vintners Inc. Since then, APL management has spent a considerable amount of time meeting with the various regional Wine Kitz groups from around the country.
Speaking on behalf of the Atlantic group, our meet & greet dinner on Saturday night at a local downtown Halifax restaurant was a great ice-breaker. It provided everyone who attended with an opportunity to meet our new management team on an informal basis. Our Sunday meeting was very informative for all parties involved. Once the meeting was complete and most questions had been discussed and answered, all 8 Atlantic franchisees came away with a very positive outlook for the future prosperity of their business. With plans for expanded product selection, innovative product mix and advanced wine making procedures, we are confident that Wine Kitz will remain the leader in the consumer-made wine industry.
Without going into too much detail, it was mentioned at the meeting that the main attraction of the World Vintners purchase was the 75 Wine Kitz franchise locations. The jewel of the 75 locations is the 8 Atlantic stores. When compared to national sales trends, our continued growth over the past several years seems to be leading the pack. When asked by APL management to share our “down east” secret to success, no silver bullet answers were provided but our business–like approach and nose-to-the-grindstone work ethic, combined with above-average customer service and quality products, seem to surface as the most determining factors. (Mr. Harper’s “culture of defeat” comment doesn’t apply with this group.)
The Wine Kitz Atlantic region is no longer the industry’s best kept secret. In my March blog, I mentioned there was never a better time to be involved in the consumer-made wine industry. Having now met our new ownership group, I reiterate my earlier comment and invite anyone looking for a career change to research the business opportunities offered by the Wine Kitz Franchise network. Furthermore, I welcome any existing stores wishing to grow their business to the next level to consider the Wine Kitz Franchise network as a solid business alternative.
In closing, if there was a downside to the weekend meetings, it was saying our goodbyes to the outgoing Wine Kitz management team and employees. On behalf of all Atlantic franchisees and myself, I wish to thank each and every one of them for their efforts in making our jobs easier and for helping to make our businesses prosperous and successful on all levels. At the risk of a bit of embarrassment, there were a few tears shed at the close of our last meeting together.
As one door closes, another one opens.
Blair
Recently:
- September 2010
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- November 2009