Industry Insider – Norma Henning
We had the pleasure of speaking to Norma Henning, co-owner of Robson’s Butcher & Deli in Hampton Hill. Robson’s are a small family run store specialising in carefully sourced British Free Range and Rare Breed meat, using traditional cuts and methods. Known for their amazing customer service and high quality produce, we had to learn more…
What’s your favourite thing about being an independent business owner?
The fact that I am my own boss! I also like that I have had to learn new skills and am still learning.
When you were a teenager did you have ambitions to become a business owner?
No, I grew up in an entrepreneurial household but didn’t really think about it much. I guess I absorbed more than I realised at the time.
What is the best bit of advice you could give to someone who is looking to start their first business?
Know your customer. We moved to the area we wanted to have our shop in and lived there while we looked for premises. We got to know locals and really understood who our market was. The other key is to love your product. Your enthusiasm will draw your customers in.
If you could encourage business owners to learn one new skill to help improve their business, what would it be?
People skills! Learn how to manage your staff. You want to be able to nurture and keep the good ones.
Footfall is a key factor in the success of the high street, what can business owners do to improve this?
I have been a director of my local Business Association for five years and we actively promote our high street and encourage new business and through our website, help potential residents to see how attractive our area is. We have strong links with the community and host two events a year. We collaborate with the Resident’s Association and the council.
We often hear concerns about local government from business owners, what’s the most effective way to have their voices heard?
Get to know your local Councillors and MP. There are regular surgeries that are open to the public or email them directly with concerns.
Where can we find out more about Robson’s Butchers & Deli?
We are on Instagram, Twitter or on our website www.robsonsbutchers.com.
The Business Association website is www.lovehamptonhill.com to see how we promote our area.
