QVM Chairman Comments On CEO Role

In response to a request from QVMAC Trader Representatives, Queen Victoria Market Chairman, Paul Guerra, has today sent us the following advice.

“As most of you would now know, Jan’s contract comes to a conclusion on October 30^th.

During a time of uncertainty around the market renewal some two years ago, the Board made a decision to appoint Jan on a 2 year contract. Some of us will recall that the renewal project had not been approved at that point. We have moved significantly over the past 2 years, and are now in a phase of realizing the opportunity that the QVM renewal can deliver. The time is now right to return to the position of a long term CEO, and that’s what we will be recruiting for.

Jan has done a great job over the two years and set the market on the right pathway for an effective renewal. She has helped the market build excellent relationships with Staff, Traders, the City and other Stakeholders and we know they all join the Board in wishing her all the very best for the future.

The Board has started the process of looking for a new CEO and are working with Jan and key staff to confirm the best transitional arrangements while we find the CEO to take us through the renewal implementation. We anticipate having those arrangements in place in the next two weeks and will let you know as soon as they are finalised.

We look forward to celebrating with you the contribution Jan has made before she leaves at the end of the month.

Thanks

Paul Guerra

Chairman”

Have Your Say - click here.

COMMENTS:
10/10/2015 18:35:09 Jan "I hope Paul for all intents & purposes, u can find someone as efficient in her job & outlook , convivial with traders.i wish u luck " Rosalie

Retail News Briefs - 4/10/2015

David Jones Chief Quits - Iain Nairn has resigned from the department store after just 14 months and is set to be replaced by ex Marks & Spencer executive John Dixon. Dixon led a major turnaround in the food business of the UK retailer. Victraders.com recently reported on DJ's aspirations in the food category - http://www.victraders.com/2015/07/david-jones-inspired-by-qvm-in-new-food.html Nairn will continue to advise at DJ's for 3 months. 

Aldi To Launch Online - Aldi UK is to launch an online presence next year. The online store will sell Aldi's range of private label wine followed by "non-food special buys" later in 2016. Aldi has become the U.K.'s fastest growing grocer.

Kogan Wants To Become A Department Store - online retail giant, Kogan, wants to branch out into broader categories and become the bargain-hunters preferred option across more than just electronics. Kogan has quietly introduced private label brands of sports equipment, power tools, manchester, travel goods, and even pet supplies over the past year.

Nestle Abandons Brand Website For A Blog - Nestle's Nescafe website is to be transformed from a standard brand site to a Tumblr blog. The aim is to build a stronger relationship with younger consumers using a social media format.

Myer's Turnaround Is Expensive - Myer is valued at $700m yet their turnaround plan will cost $600m according to new Myer's boss Richard Umbers. 

A Trader Re-Focuses

Retailing is a dynamic industry and adjusting to change is a key requirement for those game enough to take on the challenges. Sometimes that change means a complete re-think and it is good to see that QVM is a place where re-thinking can be converted into action.

Trader, Tri, has replaced his wooden toy stall with his leather craft business and improved his merchandising in the process.  His attractive work apron and rolls of leather set the scene for an artisan look that is sure to enhance the handmade appeal of his product. And of course he happens to have one of the best smiles in the market.

Have Your Say - click here.

We May Miss Jan Cochrane-Harry More Than We Realise

Jan Cochrane- Harry's decision to step down as QVM CEO will leave an unsettling gap in our market's progress. Jan's inclusiveness has been a hallmark of her tenure and a key ingredient in mending the wounds of a stormy trader/management relationship over the last 15 or so years.

Many traders would have had Jan's phone number in their contact list and her availability has been quite unique in today's business world. Previous CEO's were criticised for not walking the sheds. Jan has "walked the sheds" literally and figuratively. She has taken a personal interest in a whole range of issues affecting traders and been prepared to make tough decisions. That doesn't mean that every trader's wish has been granted but as one of our traders said - "Sometimes a well-considered ""No"" is just as good as a ""Yes"". All we are asking for is genuine consideration".

But if inclusiveness has been an important factor in Jan's leadership, there is another "i" word that is even more relevant and that is "integrity". Integrity means taking ownership of decisions and being prepared to recognise when corrective action is necessary. It means inviting questioning and criticism because it is the issues that are important, not the egos. It means taking the plaudits when things succeed but also accepting the blame when things go wrong. Jan's recent "letter of apology" (my words) to E shed traders over the Food Court debacle is just one example of that integrity.

It is said that no one person is bigger than the organisation. That is true, but filling Jan Cochrane-Harry's shoes is not going to be easy particularly when it comes to inclusiveness and integrity. And in a market of 600 independent small businesses it would be wrong to underestimate the importance of those qualities.

Greg Smith - QVMAC Trader Representative.

Have Your Say - click here.

COMMENTS:
02/10/2015 17:22:24 re. our CEO "I for one would be very sorry to see Jan go.. Best CEO we ever had, and I've seen 5 in my time at the market."
03/10/2015 16:27:12 Our Jan . "Very well said Greg,most accurate ...We will certainly miss her." Andy 

04/10/2015 07:07:51 To Jan: """A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd."" Dear Jan, For some people, what you did is still invisible, but definitely will have impact on the future of QVM. Please forgive us our scepticism, this is what we learn from your predecessor. Me personally, felt more Human under your management. We will miss your walk and talk at 6 AM between sheds and chat about next steps. This is something what we did not expect from CEO. We will miss your rush between two meetings to solve some ""minor"" issues between egocentric stallholders. Normally, Sunday is day off for everyone from the office, but not for you: you are relax, walking between sheds with your little shopping and notice unnoticeable. Jan, you where a Good Conductor. " Mino, member of JLP Melbourne Team  

08/10/2015 14:45:28 Oh no, don't go "Jan, your willingness to learn about and understand all the wildly disparate needs of the market was unprecedented. Your desire to understand the problems and then forge the relationships necessary to work towards a market that will stand the test of time was just starting to bear fruit - traders were gaining enough of a sense of trust in management to engage in the renewal process and start to think about solutions instead of blaming management for problems. This is an ill considered decision. "

Consumers Making Smaller Vegetable Purchases More Often

In their latest Project Harvest Report the peak industry body representing vegetable and potato growers, Ausveg, have identified some interesting trends in vegetable purchasing and consumption.

Essentially they have found that consumers are buying smaller lots of vegetables more often. They theorise that consumers are more conscious of wastage and are happy to visit their vegetable retailer every couple of days to achieve minimum wastage. The effect is that smaller pre-packaged or individual vegetable purchases are on the rise while larger pre-packaged formats are declining.

A spokesperson said - “When they go vegetable shopping, these consumers are only planning a couple of meals ahead, because they’ll return in a night or two. This means that they’re looking for portion sizes that they can grab, use immediately and have nothing left over.” “In some cases this leads them to buying loose leaves, or convenient formats like salad trays and small pre-packaged bags. In other cases, it means they’re only looking to buy one or two broccoli heads or chillies instead of a full tray.”

What does this trend mean for QVM Fruit & Vegetable sellers? – we would love your views.

Have Your Say - click here.

Breaking News – CEO, Jan Cochrane-Harry Stepping Down

Jan Cochrane-Harry has advised QVMAC Trader representatives that she will be stepping down as CEO on 30th October 2015. That will mark the completion of her two year contract at QVM.
Jan came to our market during a time of immense upheaval and has been involved in the formulation of many important market components including things like the 1-2-1 Trader Meetings, the Queen Victoria Market Precinct Renewal Strategic Brief, and ultimately the Master Plan for QVM. 
It has been suggested that the time is right for a new CEO to take on the implementation phase of a long renewal. There may be merit in that suggestion however amongst a range of executive talents Jan has shown a remarkable capacity for impartiality and inclusiveness. In the difficult times ahead, traders will need all those qualities to be ongoing. 

Have Your Say – click here.

COMMENTS:
02/10/2015 09:32:48 CEO "So who's our new CEO?"  
02/10/2015 10:58:41 Stepping Down "Here's how others are doing things: - "Woolworths said Mr Nairn was resigning for ""personal reasons"" but he would continue for three months as an adviser to ensure a ""seamless handover""."
02/10/2015 11:01:06 CEO "An interesting comment about these sorts of decisions from today's paper: ""You don't often see someone doing a pretty good job get removed.""" 
02/10/2015 17:22:24 re. our Ceo "I for one would be very sorry to see Jan go.. Best CEO we ever had, and I've seen 5 in my time at the market."
Thank you to all contributors - Ed.  

Trader Gets Herald-Sun Exposure - Re-visited

Queen Victoria Market’s Pompous Paws business has featured in an article about Australia’s booming pet industry. Trader, Diane Charbel, was quoted in a Herald-Sun article this week which examined Australia’s estimated $8 billion p.a. pet care industry.

The article featured Dianne’s wonderful range of pet outfits and included photos of her pet staffies, Evie and Hugo. It is great to see well earned exposure for a QVM Trader and an excellent example for other traders looking to maximise the exposure of their business's. Our media links ran hot with the story as it showed up in the Herald-Sun and the International Business Times.

Have Your Say - click here.

COMMENTS:

30/09/2015 11:02:48 Trader gets Herald Sun Exposure "Pompous Paws was launched at QVM in 2011. Since April 2013 I have been honored to have full spreads in the Herald Sun 3 times (all of which have promoted QVM). We have been on the morning show sunrise to do a fashion parade and also featured in city newspaper MX. All this came to pass because journalists have seen potential in Pompous Paws and approached me for a cover. 

Yet, I have been BEGGING for a permanent spot within the market - which we all know very well that there is plenty available. I get nothing! I have sent email after email after email. Gone through all the channels from top to bottom. From old staff to new staff - NOTHING! Meanwhile, everyone else around me gets their permanent spot, whether it be inside the market or SBA. I have been verbally strung by an empty promise for a spot in string bean ally and continue to get dragged along... still waiting for calls back, still waiting for emails to be responded to.... still waiting to be answered....nothing... or ""just wait"" you're next"" ""oh no you're now next"" ""ok, you're next after this one"" years have passed....

This may not be the forum to express my anger but how can I let it go when I finally get recognition (here) when QVM uses my personal success to advertise itself. I love QVM, what it is and where it has taken me. But i definitely HATE telling journalists this is where I started and where I am. Why?  Because newspaper coverage leaves me with a ripple of confused customers who can never find me! It damages my name more than it advertises it.

In the mean time, I will continue to wait and maybe, just maybe someone from QVM will see what Pompous Paws brings to its dusty, tired market If not, then a ""Dianne, you will never get a permanent spot"" will suffice. At least I will know where I stand." Dianne Charbel.

Thank you for speaking out Dianne. The importance of businesses like yours is obvious to us which is why we printed the article. Who knows? - maybe you picked the right forum to express your concerns. Good luck! - Ed.

QVM Secures Major Cruise Ship Link

Cruise ships docking at the Port of Melbourne are a major source of visitors for QVM and a new arrangement with Carnival Australia will ensure that the market is included in their 2015/16 Shore Excursion Programme.

As part of the programme, Carnival Australia will provide direct transfers from Port Melbourne to the market with free time for guests to shop. Guests will be provided with shopping bags and brochures to help navigate their way around the market.

Carnival Australia represents the worlds most popular cruise brands including Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard Line, Fathom, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, P&O Cruises World Cruising, Princess Cruises and Seabourn. Together these brands represent 80% of all ships docking at Port Melbourne throughout the 2015/16 season.

Our congratulations to the QVM Marketing team for securing this important relationship with the cruise ship industry.

Have Your Say - click here.

Agenda For QVMAC Meeting Released On Victraders

In a first for victraders.com we are listing the agenda for the QVMAC Meeting on Thursday 24^th September. This is part of a campaign to broaden trader understanding of the committee’s activities.

The Queen Victoria Market Advisory Committee is a body comprising 10 Trader Representatives, members of management including CEO Jan Cochrane-Harry, and in more recent times, attended by two QVM Board members. The QVMAC considers a whole range of issues relating to our market and is particularly relevant as we head into the complexities of market renewal.

Following is the meeting agenda with some explanatory comments in italics where appropriate. We are unable to give you details of the actual discussion until the minutes have been published and approved by all attendees. That will happen within coming days. By publishing agendas and minutes it is hoped that all traders will have a better understanding of the broad range of issues that the committee considers and how those issues are progressed and actioned.

QVMAC Meeting Thursday 24th September 2015

QVM Queen Street Office - Level 1, 422 Queen Street

AGENDA

3.30pm (prompt start) – 5.30pm finish.

Attendees: Jan Cochrane-Harry – Chair (JCH) - QVM	Stephen McLennan (SM) QVMAC
Victor Ailakis (VA) QVM	Greg Smith (GS) - QVMAC
Fiona Whitworth (FW) - QVM	Jenny Pyke (JP) - QVMAC
Brendan Devine (BD) - QVM	Joseph Stolarek (JS) - QVMAC
Marina Levitsky (ML) - QVM	Kha Nguyen (KN) - QVMAC
Belinda Ross (BR) - QVM	Ivano Guseli (IG) QVMAC
Spiros Foscolos (SF) - QVM	Ben Vitalone (BV) - QVMAC
Matthew Bell (MB) - QVM	Cathy Underhill (CU) – QVMAC
Natasa Filosoglou (NF) - QVM	Kon Kardaras – (KK) - Guest

Apologies: Jane Fenton AM (JF) – QVM Board	Ivano Guseli (IG) QVMAC
Paul Sheahan AM (PS) – QVM Board
Mark Smith (MS) - QVM

1. Welcome

1.1. Introductions (JCH)

1.2. Minutes from previous meeting (JCH)

2. Marketing & Events

2.1. De-Brief on Brand Launch (MB & NF) – QVM’s new logo.

2.2. Market Week Update (MB)

2.3. Christmas Trading Hours (MB) - proposals for december 2015 particularly the clash between the Night Market and food operations leading into Christmas trading.

2.4. Friday Night Food Trucks (SF) – related to the special Stir Frydays event over October/November.

3. Management

3.1. Strategic Brief Finalisation (FW) – the Strategic Brief is a 158 page document which sets the future direction for QVM. and was compiled back in February 2015.

3.2. Trading Ideas Sessions (BD) – the first of these Monday night sessions was held recently and discussed Barcelona’s public markets.

3.3. QVMAC & Trader Governance Structures (BD) – the structure and Terms of Reference for the QVMAC are under review including proposals for deeper trader involvement in the committee’s deliberations.

3.4. Car Parking Update (VA)

4. Trader Matters

4.1. Meat and Fish Hall Leases – discussing the progress of lease renewals.

4.2. A-Shed and Victoria Street – concerning the recent changes to the North side of A shed.

4.3. Dairy Hall Lighting – discussing the adequacy of current lighting for special night events.

4.4. Dairy Hall – Letter of comfort – traders are seeking assurances over issues including the impact of any construction on trader activities during renewal.

4.5. 507 Elizabeth Street – tenancy status – concerns the croissant shop on the corner of Therry and Elizabeth streets.

4.6. Queen Street Loading Areas – an issue raised by F Shed traders over the effect of the loading bay fences and their impact on customer flow between upper and lower market areas.

5. Other Business

6. Attachments:

1 – Draft Terms of Reference – QVMAC Trader Groups

                        ===========================================

Have Your Say – click here.

COMMENT:
29/09/2015 17:40:34 QVMAC Agenda "Your photo of the QVMAC is not authentic. The table isn't round!" Uknowhugh
Thank you for your input Hugh :-)  Ed

Latest Retail News - 27/9/2015

Latest Retail News – 27/9/2015
1. New Federal cabinet urged to implement Effects Test legislation.
2. ACCC investigates pop-up photography operator offering “free” photos.
3. Vitamin business, Swisse, sold to Hong Kong listed baby formula company for $1.67 billion.
4. Consumers look to smaller fruit & vegetable purchases in order to avoid waste.
5. Westfield says pureplay online retailing is not a threat.
6. Baby Bunting set to launch on stock market.
7. Senate enquiry to tackle 7-Eleven bosses over wages.
8. Australia Post incurs its first loss ($222m) in 30 years.

PayPal Launches Tap'n'Go

PayPal is an alternative card service to the big banks and a number of traders have taken it up as their preferred option. 
PayPal don't charge monthly fees but instead opt for a 1.95% fee on the value of the sale. That is generally higher than the banks although the bank's considerable monthly charges do mean you need to do your sums to work out which is best for your business.
PayPal have just introduced a Tap'n'Go card facility which narrows the comparison even further.
More details here - PayPal Tap and Go.

More Market Enhancement

We recently published photos of “yarn bombing” on Peel St., planter baskets on the Queen St. facilities block, and other decorative elements that have been introduced around our market. And there is more, as you will see from the following photos -

So, we have colourful planter boxes in Deli Lane, yarn bombing of street trees in Therry St., rope binding of pillars in I Shed and a colouful pop-up sign in the car park which is clearly visible to all south bound traffic in Peel St. Small things that all add up to a better look.
Have Your Say – click here.

Editor Responds To Trader Complaint

In an article about stall security at QVM ( http://www.victraders.com/2015/09/security-for-traders.html) we included a generic photograph of a security guard and that drew the ire of ex-trader, Rosalie, who commented - 

24/09/2015 19:52:02 Security Get your facts rite!! This is not a vic mkt security man you r talking about Dandenong mkt!! Rosalie

So, we have responded and our own QVM security expert (and all round gentleman) Charlie, has agreed to have his photo taken. Thank you Charlie.

Have Your Say - click here.

COMMENTS:
02/10/2015 05:11:39 Security "Thank u Charlie does a remarkable job & is a very diligent,loyal employee.Dandenong mkt  traders have had a recent spate of  robberies!! I hope the Management has Ceased the temptations of the light fingered culprits!!" Rosalie

QVM Shopping Bag Seen In Vancouver

Queen Victoria market traders are a competitive lot and when one trader claims a record distance for the travels of one of their shopping bags we reckon we have potential for a bit of rivalry. 

This bag was seen in Vancouver at Granville Public Market. Our models were good enough to show us both sides of the bag. Rumour has it that they were travelling with Traders Stephen and Drita McLennan.

Do you have photos of your logo or business name at an exotic distant location. We must have photos and we will be happy to publish for all to see.

Have Your Say - click here.

Council Shortlists Developers For Munro Site

Following is the content of a media release by CoM today - 

"Melbourne City Council has shortlisted five potential private sector partners to create a mixed-use development in the heart of the Queen Victoria Market precinct. 

At a Special Council Meeting on Tuesday night, Council voted to issue five companies with a Request for Proposal to develop of the site at the corner of Queen and Therry streets. 
In accordance with probity advice, the identity of companies remains confidential and has not been disclosed to Council. 

The 6329 m2 property, commonly known as the Munro Site, was purchased by Council in October 2014 for $76 million to create a mixed-use development. In line with the Queen Victoria Market Renewal Master Plan, the development will complement the market and bring life to the neighbourhood. It will include: 
• Specialty retail, specialty shops, cafes and hospitality services that complement the market’s offer 
• A major customer car park to replace the existing at-grade car park 
• A new mid-block link from Franklin Street to Therry Street 
• An integrated family and children centre including childcare 
• Affordable housing in line with City of Melbourne’s Homes for People Housing Strategy 2014-18. 

Developers shortlisted for the Request for Proposal process will be required to submit their bid by 15 December, with a further evaluation to narrow that list to two proponents in March 2016. The final two proponents will be asked to submit a Best and Final Offer by May 2016. 
The City of Melbourne expects to execute a Development Agreement with the successful bidder in July 2016. 

The proposed development will be consistent with proposed Planning Scheme Amendment C245, which has been authorised for public exhibition by the Planning Minister. The proposed amendment is consistent with development guidelines for the site released by Council, prior to its purchase in September 2014. Consultation on proposed Planning Scheme Amendment C245 will commence next month. Shortly before Council purchased the site it released development guidelines. The proposed amendment seeks to introduce controls governing street frontage heights and setbacks to create a pedestrian friendly public realm. It would also introduce tower separation and wind and weather protection requirements and balance retention of heritage character with new development."

Have Your Say - click here.

QVM Tram Gets Around

And for those of you who haven't seen our QVM tram - here is a photo of it spotted in Swanston St.

Latest Retail News – 20/9/2015

Latest Retail News – 20/9/2015
1. Computer chip powers dress that expands when adrenaline rises and sports bra that cools- literally.
2. Analysts suggest Turnbull may boost business confidence on reputation alone.
3. Turnbull puts competition effects test back in spotlight.
4. Chapel St. experiences record vacancies – 1 in 10 shops empty.
5. Deloittes suggest retail growth will slow as Sydney/Melbourne housing market cools.
6. Briscoe’s attempted takeover of Kathmandu times out.
7. Oroton Group’s net profit falls 68%.
8. Premier Investments profits boosted by Peter Alexander and Smiggle.
9.     Inditex, the worlds biggest clothing retailer, and owner of Zara, says sales up 16% in 2015 and profit over 1 billion Euros.

What Do You Think Should Be Discussed At Thursday's QVMAC Meeting

The next Queen Victoria Market Advisory Committee (QVMAC) meeting takes place on Thursday 24th September. It is time to ask what you think should be discussed.

The QVMAC involves Trader Representatives from each market precinct, management representatives including the CEO, and usually two QVM Board Members. Major issues involving the market are discussed with a current focus on market renewal.

What items do you believe should be talked about and progressed. Is it modifying our trading hours?
What about permanent stalls? What issues are likely to improve business levels at your stall? What are the key issues for you?

You can have your input by writing to us through the Have Your Say link below or by talking to your Trader Representative.

Have Your Say - click here

Security For Traders

Theft is a major issue for retailers across the globe. In the “bad old days” theft from QVM traders was common and the impact was particularly disastrous if it involved trader’s takings. These days, with CCTV and regular patrols by security staff the situation has significantly improved but there are still issues, and we would like to know what you think.

We have published videos on this website of thieves being caught in the act and daily events involving theft suggest that maybe we can do more to control this illegal behaviour. The best preventative measure for traders is to be alert. Great customer service lets your customers (and potential thieves) know that you are watching their every move. But thieves can be a determined lot and the question has been asked whether we should have an internal notification system so that other traders can be advised of potential suspects. Traders notifying neighbouring stalls or other stalls in their category have helped catch thieves in the past.

Some stalls are magnets for thieves. High value items are often a target and stalls with blockout areas are susceptible. Some stalls have distinct closed off sections which can only be viewed all together by standing in the aisle. Obviously that is not possible at all times.

Thankfully, theft only appears to be a problem for a small number of traders. But what do you think? Should we have some form of notification for suspicious activity? Do you know what to do in the case of theft? Would an information session between traders and security staff be helpful? Please comment below.

Have Your Say – click here.

COMMENTS:
24/09/2015 19:52:02 Security Get your facts rite!! This is not a vic mkt security man you r talking about Dandenong mkt!! Rosalie

Hi Rosalie - Yes, you are right, this is not a photo of a QVM Security Guard. It is a generic security photo taken from the web. We will put a photo of a genuine QVM Security Guard on our files as soon as we can. Maybe Charlie would be willing to have his photo taken. Thanks for your input - Ed.

Great Marketing Ideas - Continued

We have already written about this great idea to put magnetic signs on traders vehicles. The idea came from trader, John Magno, and has been taken to another level by trader, Raphael Kern, who had an actual sign printed.
Exploring the possibilities will commence this week in discussions with management but, in the meantime, we thought we would publish some examples of how the signs could be used. While these photos were being taken we received a positive response from traders and customers. A special thank you to all the participants.

Have Your Say - click here.