FOR more than a decade, Pooja Kumar has been part of the Meridian Store journey, witnessing the growth of a business that has become more than just a place of work.
As one of the longest-serving staff members at the Wairiki, Taveuni business, Ms Kumar said her years with the company have been filled with learning, support and strong relationships.
“It has been a very good experience working at Meridian Store,” she said.
Ms Kumar said the leadership and guidance from the management team had helped staff develop both professionally and personally.
“Our boss really looks after us. He teaches us many things, especially with the business, how to serve customers, how to manage stocks and how to understand the way the business operates.”
She described Meridian Store managing director Champak Lal Dayaram as someone who maintained high standards and encouraged staff to always strive for excellence.
“He is a perfectionist. He wants everything to be done properly.
“He wants the shop to be clean, organised and for staff to maintain a high standard.”
She said those lessons had helped staff members build confidence and improve their approach to work.
“For some of us, we are naturally shy, but working here has helped us become more confident.
“It is like an icebreaker where you come out of your comfort zone, interact with customers and be yourself.”
Beyond the workplace, she said the company had also provided important support to staff and their families, especially during challenging periods.
She recalled the coronavirus pandemic as a difficult time for many people, but said Meridian Store ensured its employees remained employed.
“During that difficult time, everyone kept their jobs. Nobody was laid off.”
She said this support meant a lot to staff members who had families and responsibilities.
“They do not see us only as workers. They treat us as part of their family.”
For Ms Kumar, the 100-year-old business represents more than trade and commerce.
It represents people, relationships and a workplace where staff feel valued and respected.
