Janine Favreau on 40 successful years as a natural health retailer
By Bruce W. Cole
Being a humble individual, Janine Favreau didn’t want a big fuss made of her 40th anniversary as the owner of the Nutters Everyday Naturals in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. This milestone makes her Nutters’ longest serving franchisee.
She is a multiple-award winner for leadership in her community and for the positive impact she has had on the local business scene. In 2013, she was the first-ever recipient of the Samuel McLeod Business Award for Prince Albert’s Female Business Leader of the Year. This was awarded by the Prince Albert and District Chamber of Commerce, who later also awarded Janine the 2020 Legacy Award, which is given to a businessperson who had a positive impact on Prince Albert and the district.
In 2023, she was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for her outstanding service to the province of Saskatchewan in the field of business and commerce.
Personally, Janine has been well recognized for her business acumen. However, it’s never been about her—it’s always been about the store, her staff, and her customers. A recent article in the Prince Albert Daily Herald points out that Janine’s Nutters location has won nine of the past 10 “Prince Albert Best of the Best” awards in the Best Health/Vitamin Store category.
Her business practices are proven; she is a trusted, respected, and active member in her community.
CNHR asked Janine if she would be willing to address some topics that she considers foundational business elements, things she has employed over the past four decades that have helped make her store a beacon in the Nutters group. Below, she offers some thoughts.
Diligence
Janine says the most crucial aspect of being in the retail business is being a hands-on owner. “This not only broadens your knowledge, but it also sets a positive example for your staff, showing them your commitment to the business and the importance of being involved in all departments.”
Passion
Passion is something Janine has always had for natural health, and it is a required element in this business. She sees her passion reflected through her customers and staff. “I feel so fortunate to have been at a job for 40 years, and it just feels like a much shorter time.”
Knowledge
Knowledge is another key component Janine has built her business on. “Our business’s success in the supplement category hinges on our collective knowledge. I try to stay updated with the latest findings and articles. Then, I educate my staff and customers.
Since 1995, I have been writing weekly newspaper advertorials and have gained immense readership, a testament to our collective efforts and dedication. This has created a great customer base and instilled immediate ad recognition and trust.
“Also, by staying current, our customers think of us first when they are searching for products.”
Staffing
Janine cannot stress enough the importance of having knowledgeable and service-oriented staff. “This will make or break your success! Over the past 40 years, this has been proven repeatedly. I can honestly say that I have never attended a function or an event without someone commenting on our knowledgeable staff and the outstanding service they provide.”
Staff retention is a crucial part of our success, she says, pointing out that she has staff members who have been with her for 30, 22, 21, 11, and 10 years.
A big part of retaining quality staff includes understanding and respecting their needs. “Recognizing that everyone has busy, hectic lives, I always try to accommodate my staff with any personal concerns or flexibility. I rarely ever decline a request for a particular day off or time away due to personal reasons. We also prioritize a team-oriented, enjoyable work atmosphere, which contributes to a cohesive team and a pleasant customer experience.”
Store ambiance
Since the day she opened the store, ambiance has been a priority. And it starts the moment a customer walks through the front door. “Immediately, I address all five senses so that when customers walk in, all senses are activated. I have instrumental music playing, and we run diffusers with welcoming scents, along with the scents coming from our bulk spices and freshly ground coffee. We stay focused on ensuring all our bins and barrels are neatly merchandised and operating materials are available. Also, we have signage throughout the store with product information and uses.”
Senses are further engaged with regular in-store demos.
Community
Weaving your store into the fabric of your community is another key to success. “I am fortunate to have been born and raised in Prince Albert. My success has been possible because of the support from our community, so giving back is essential and rewarding.
“When a community event requests a donation, I never refuse. Sometimes, it can be a smaller donation and other times, it can be a larger donation for special fundraising events, especially when it comes to health and wellness. Saskatchewan is also a hockey province, and I support local teams and teams in our surrounding area.
“I have had immense community support since the first day I opened the store, and I find it so humbling,” explains Janine
Support
Throughout your journey, suggests Janine, never be afraid to ask for help and support. As an example, she points to the founders and leaders of Nutters Everyday Naturals, Donald Cranston and Lynn Cranston, who are both now retired from the day-to-day operation of the company. “Without their outstanding leadership and immense involvement in this franchise, I would not be where I am today! With that said, I owe Donald and Lynn so much gratitude.”