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Ōrewa couple, Todd Burns and Kim Smyth, say some people thought they were mad starting a business during the Covid-19 pandemic.
But they are proof that hard work, passion and determination can see you through.
Accountant Todd, previously a butcher, wanted a career change. Kim, who is in marketing, was seven months pregnant. Together, they decided to follow their passion for food. Finding premises in Ōrewa meant moving from their city apartment. They also began networking with local producers at Farmers Markets to ensure what they offered at The Ōrewa Grocer would be fresh and unique.
Their store is beside New World, however Kim says that it is complementary.
“People are out shopping and they come here for specialised groceries, includingMediterranean and Asian foods, artisan bread, cheeses and deli meats,” she says.
“Our small size means we can offer super fresh, high quality produce and things that are hard to find elsewhere,” Todd says. “Customers are stoked that they no longer have to drive out of town to get these things.”
There’s no doubt this energetic and focused couple have found their happy place – developing a hub for local producers and meeting customers who are as interested in food as they are.
Todd and his staff can tell you about any of the grocery items, including how to use them in cooking.
Best of all, Kim, Todd and baby Sam are happy in Ōrewa. “We want this to be our forever home,” Kim says.
Business Directory: The Ōrewa Grocer
