In an era defined by unemployment and lack of opportunities, the story of Roy Sheodin is a refreshing anomaly.

Not many people can boast a colourful career that spans over three decades at one company. Roy’s unwavering dedication to SUPERSPAR Knowles is a testament to loyalty, hard work and a deep connection to his community. Starting his journey shortly after finishing school, Roy owns the very store where he first worked.

Located in the bustling town of Pinetown near Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Knowles SUPERSPAR received a prestigious SPAR ‘National Store of the Year’ award in 2022. Roy was also named leading SPAR retailer in the same year. This recognition reflects the store’s transformation into a destination lifestyle supermarket under Roy’s leadership.

“SUPERSPAR Knowles has built a stellar reputation for customer service, efficiency, and community engagement, all of which highlight Roy’s dedication and leadership. His journey offers invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and inspires employees alike, as it emphasises the rewards of staying committed to one’s work while fostering great environment of growth and good service," says Mpudi Maubane, National PR, Communications & Sponsorship Manager at The SPAR Group.

Roy has also distinguished himself through his contributions to the SPAR’s regional and national Guilds, and Promotions Committee where he shares his insights and knowledge to enhance the brand. His participation in these inintiatives underscores his belief in collaboration and networking within the industry, paving way for greatness and collective growth with fellow retailers.

Roy’s journey with Knowles began in 1988, when it was independently owned. By 1989, when the store joined the SPAR family, Roy was working as a merchandiser and stocking shelves. His dedication and work ethic soon paid off, and over the years, he worked his way up through the ranks, eventually becoming the storeowner and leading a passionate and dedicared team of 245 employees.

Roy’s career progression reflects the many facets of retail management. He moved from packing shelves to becoming the ‘buyer of cigarettes and imported foods’, before being promoted to floor manager, marking the start of his ascent up the retail ladder.

His commitment to the Knowles community extended beyond the workplace; it’s also where he met his wife, Meera, who worked at the store. The couple, now married for 27 years, continue to share a deep connection to the store and the community it serves.

“The SPAR Group encourages its store owners to engage with the communities, and Roy has fully embraced this value. Under his leadership, Knowles SUPERSPAR has become the chosen collection point for the Rotary Club of Pinetown’s charity drives, including the ‘Food for Thought Winter Warmth’ campaign, which supports local organisations such as Cheshire Home, Highway Hospice, and the Pinetown Highway Child and Family Welfare Society”, continues Maubane.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when local children were no longer receiving meals at school, Roy acted quickly, donating 1,500 bags of porridge to families in need. His commitment to both his staff and community was further demonstrated during the 2022 KZN floods, when he led fundraising efforts to help a staff member who lost her home, and rallied local businesses to donate materials to rebuild it.

Roy’s leadership style is rooted in mentorship, as he continuously encourages personal and professional growth of his team. One staff member describes him as “a man who has come a long way. People may call it a ‘rags to riches’ story, but I see it as one of humble beginnings leading to a golden heart.”

Although much has changed in the 44 years that SUPERSPAR Knowles has served the Pinetown community, one thing remains constant: Roy Sheodin’s commitment to the store, its people, and its enduring role in the local community.

Whatsapp