For over 40 years Randal Retail Group has been a leader in our industry and there's a simple reason why. The members of our team. Everyone who works here is passionate about giving the best customer service and sending top-quality products out the door. So to help you learn a little more about everyone, we're starting our Get To Know Randal series.
We're asking our teams to answer some questions that tell everyone more information about how they got started in the industry, their thoughts on things, and what they enjoy doing in their spare time. Everyone might not have chosen to answer the same questions, but that's okay. But we're not cookie-cutter here at Randal. Making things fit in unique spaces is who we are!
First up, is our Sales team: VP of Sales and Marketing Chuck Bray, Director of Business Development Charles Alexander, and Director of Retail and Restaurant Sales Sam Riddle.
How did you wind up at Randal Retail Group?
Chuck: I’d been working in the retail world for a while – graphics, POP displays, design, printing. Randal was looking to build their sales team, and I came in and met Chris and Thea. Almost 25 years ago – the rest is history.
What excites you most about working in sales?
Chuck: Interacting with people and helping them solve problems and improve their programs. This world we work in is constantly changing, which keeps it interesting.
Charles: I believe it’s essential to take the time to listen to clients and learn about their business. In a world full of change, my goal is to recognize their current challenges, help them assess priorities, find innovative solutions, and thoughtfully partner with them to navigate growth. I enjoy listening to clients, figuring out their business development strategies, and getting to know them on a personal level. Being able to find common ground, laugh, and listen to concerns and fears . . . it’s all part of the client-vendor relationship. Developing partnerships is important.
Sam: The daily challenges, problem solving, and taking care of the customer when it’s all said and done.
What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the retail industry today?
Chuck: Differentiation – if you don’t offer something unique in terms of experience, you will not last. Just about every segment of retail starts with multiple players and naturally narrows itself down over time. To make it in the long run, you have to offer the customer something they can’t find anywhere else.
Charles: While the worst of the pandemic seems to be behind us, there are still a number of challenges to work through. That being said, it’s not all doom and gloom. There have been a number of innovative solutions: curbside pick-up, double drive-thru service, digital ordering processes, ghost kitchens, mobile apps, and QR menu online tools. Some of the issues plaguing the industry are labor costs and shortages, rapid inflation, and supply chain disruptions that impact kitchen equipment, real estate, raw materials, and city permitting. Brands are experiencing shortages of ingredients and key menu items, forcing them to streamline their menus. But, it’s an exciting time with fresh opportunities to develop new strategies to grow.
What do you enjoy most about working at Randal?
Sam: That everyone is engaged and trying to move in the right direction in the best interest of the customer.
What are some of your passions outside of work?
Chuck: Live Music, traveling, and finding new bars and restaurants.
Charles: My spouse, Elizabeth. We do almost everything together from taking walks, skiing, snowshoeing, fishing, camping, golf, traveling, and shopping.
Sam: Golf, cooking, and traveling.
Do you have a favorite vacation spot?
Chuck: So far, Cabo.
Charles: Alaska and Eastern Canada.
Sam: Bonita Springs, FL
What's at the top of your bucket list?
Chuck: I have four states in the US left to visit.
Charles: Bicycle ride around Ireland and Scotland, sightsee and play golf.
Sam: Playing (golf at) Pebble Beach.
Eager to see how the entire team at Randal can help your business grow? Click below to download our retail tips sheet and get started.
