Build Your Dreams – 2007

In celebration of the Smollan Group’s 75th birthday, loyal, committed employees that could prove that they were ‘living the Smollan values’ had the opportunity to win R75 000 towards building or renovating their home. Employees were scored based on input from their managers, customers and clients, and a creative submission communicating how they felt they were living the Smollan values.

From the 600 entries we received, on 11 September 2007, two deserving Smollan employees won R75 000 each:

Eugene Luphoko – SSM Inland

A real team player, Eugene Luphoko displayed a clear understanding of what living the Smollan values means.

“On a daily basis, as we’re working as a team, we always apply all the values of Smollan. That includes passion, integrity, respect for eachother…”

His meaningful and well-thought through entry earned him high scores from the judges and the references he submitted from his team, clients and customers supported this. Moreover, it was clear that a home would add real value to Eugene’s life and that of his family. His absolute delight at being announced a R75 000 winner was both invigorating and moving.

Well done Eugene. We are thrilled that we could make a difference to your family, just as you make a difference at the Smollan Group.

Bejay Ramguthee – P FMS KZN

Bejay demonstrated a clear understanding of each of the Smollan values in his entry and showcased his thorough, detail-oriented approach by submitting a presentation, numerous customer and client references, photographs of his in-store work and a motivational video. Described by customers as “exceptional”, “efficient” and “remarkable”, it was clear that store managers and owners believed him to be an excellent ambassador for the Parmalat brand.

Here are some of the rave reviews we received about Bejay:

“Bejay has proven to be an individual of high integrity. He has been loyal to his company at all times. The level of service rendered to us has been of an extremely high standards. He is always willing to go the extra mile for his customer. He is a pleasure to work with.”

“I rate him 9.5 out of 10!”

“I rate him as the best representative from Parmalat. He always goes above and beyond what the expectations are.”

Congrats Bejay. We hope you and your children enjoy the fruits of your fantastic work!

In recognition of their excellent efforts, two further employees won the Chairman’s Awards – a cash prize awarded by Doug Smollan:

Billy Jack – PFMS Western Cape

Billy’s heartfelt submission really touched the judges, but it was the incredible letters of reference he submitted from his managers, his clients and customers that packed a winning punch.

Billy’s Field Manager expressed his gratitude for having Billy on his team:

“I can write a book of his success and achievements. This is a guy who supports his three sisters and lives in a metal container. He is so passionate about his work, that a customer took 2 litres of milk at R7.99. Billy gave the customer R3,00 of his own money for the customer to buy the R10.99 Parmalat milk instead. When public transport is on strike, he runs 20km to work in a tracksuit and then changes into his uniform.”

This, and the rave reviews Billy received from clients and customers, caught the attention of Doug Smollan, who honoured Billy with a special Chairman’s Award.

Well deserved Billy. You truly are a shining light in our business and an integral part of the Smollan family. Thank you.

Tanya Filmer – PFMS Eastern Cape

Tanya’s impressive DVD submission really showcased her discipline and attention to detail. Store Managers commented on Tanya’s passion and commitment and her colleagues were extremely complimentary about her brand ambassadorship. So proud is Tanya of the Parmalat brand that she had one of her wedding photos taken in front of a Parmalat poster! Now that’s true love!
 
With people as our platform, the way in which the competitors interacted with their staff, their managers and their colleagues was an important factor. Tanya’s colleague had this to say:

“Tanya is a true leader. Her staff learn a lot from her and she leads by example. There’s no such thing as ‘I don’t get my hands dirty’. She rolls her sleeves up and she works. She’s also someone who has a wealth of experience and a lot of her managers look to her for advice and assistance.”

This, combined with the innovative ideas that Tanya continuously delivers on for the benefit of the Parmalat brand and her strong results-orientation, made her a perfect candidate for the Chairman’s Award.

Thank you Tanya. We are fortunate to have someone of your calibre in our business.