Trolleys Don’t Fill Themselves – You Have to Ask Nicely

Pondering the successful collection of #1000PiecesofFruit for Dedworth Middle students’ breakfast pre SATS exams… it brought together a bunch of skills learned over the years and it made sense, with this all being about helping our kids do well at exams by being better prepared, to share the process and learning in a blog.

A few people have asked, “What about other schools?” and the simple answer is… they didn’t ask and it should be emphasised, haven’t asked, even though I know PTA members from other schools will have seen the campaign promotion.

Things in life don’t get handed to you on a plate, as celebrity status doesn’t arrive all giftwrapped out of thin air… you have to ask for what you want… it gets easier the more practice you have… so get practising by asking.

Dedworth Middle asked if we could help by providing fruit and I got my thinking hat on.

• I have a very small budget so couldn’t just buy 165 kids’ fruit for the week.
• I know many of our customers like to help if asked.
• So let’s fill some barrows with fruit.

The original idea hit a stumbling block… they often do… 

• My wife pointed out, some might see it as profiteering
  • Asking customers to fill a trolley with 1,000 pieces of fruit
  • Yes it’s going to the school
  • But Tesco would still profit
• You have to be open to listen to others even if you think your idea is absolutely fabulous!
• The clocks ticking, the promotion needs to start first thing tomorrow
• A solution is needed

You don’t always have the final decision on the way forward!

• I approached our new manager and asked the question
• Could we match the donations made by customers 141
• HE SAID YES (after I explained the numbers)

Solution found… now I just needed a simple clear message…

• 3 or 4 quick lines that explain are best
  • We’re collecting for a local school (many people have kids / grandkids)
  • They start SATS exams on Monday (most of us hated exams so feel their pain)
  • We want to make sure they get breakfast to focus their mind (makes sense)
  • Any fruit you donate we’ll double it (very fair all round)

• Location, location, location
  • Front of the store with trolley and signage
  • Smile, say hello
  • If someone shows interest tell them more (above)
  • I know say 10% of customers… so can nudge those I know can afford it

• RESULT
  • #1000PiecesofFruit target achieved
  • Took around 5 hours on the door
  • Say 5 hours of prep around it
  • Happy Kids
  • Happy Customers
  • Happy Teachers
  • Happy Colleagues
  • Happy Boss
  • Job well done

THANK YOU WINDSOR

Jon Davey
Community Champion
Tesco Dedworth