South West Enterprise Awards 2017

10 SME NEWS / SouthWest Enterprise Awards 2017 , The Cornish Store is a boutique Cornish department store based in Falmouth. Keven Ayres describes what makes the store attractive to customers, and howhis staff work tirelessly to provide the best service possible. Cornish Gift Retailer of the Year 2017 Established in 2004, the Cornish Store was founded with the sole purpose of promoting Cornwall’s unique identity, working tirelessly to become the ultimate retailer of Cornish gifts both in store and online. Keven outlines the shop’s overall mission, identifying with the fact that all its products are associated with Cornwall. “The Cornish Store’s mission has always been to change the perception that Cornwall is just about Pasties and Cream Teas. We love everything about Cornwall and we want to share that feeling with as many people as possible.” Working in a small team of four, there is an emphasis on an open culture, and staff discuss everything regarding the business. Keven explains how the store upholds its reputation, noting the team’s total commitment to providing value to customers. “Essentially, we have built our reputation on our strong range of quality products, many exclusive, including our growing own brand range, created and designed by us. At any one time, over 120 Cornish producers are represented in store. Added to this is our total commitment to good value for money and fair prices.” Being a department store, the team place their customers first. They listen to the customers and utilise feedback to improve their services. Going the extra mile for customers, Keven is clearly very proud of the Cornish nature and heritage of the store. “Crucially, we listen to our customers, who help us to improve our services and sometimes give us great ideas for new products. If we do not have it, the team will find it, or search for someone who does have it. We will always go that extra mile, as we are at heart, Ambassadors for Cornwall.” Signing off, Keven looks ahead to what the future holds for The Cornish Store. He believes that the attractive landscape of Cornwall is enough to entice customers, and the team work hard to not disappoint them in their expectations. “Moving forward, we need to capitalise on our growing internet sales and break into new markets. We would love to move to larger premises where we could consolidate shop, office, warehouse and despatch. Our challenge for the years ahead is to continue to grow and develop The Cornish Store’s unique quality products and services.” SWE17008