The Butchers Advocate, 16 April 2021
In this month’s member spotlight, we meet Clinton Koch, the new owner of Barrow Lane Butchers in Brisbane’s north-west suburb of Mitchelton.
Barrow Lane Butchers was previously owned by Raymond Kelso, a long-term industry identity, previous AMIC Queensland Retail Council member and AMIC Board member.
Ray founded the store on the values of high quality, consistency, and outstanding service, a legacy which Clinton endeavors to continue.
“Innovation, quality products, community focus and strong customer relationships were all hallmarks of the shop in Ray’s time, and I intend to expand on this.”
With years of experience across a variety of butcher shops throughout Brisbane, Clinton joins Barrow Lane Butchers with a wealth of knowledge and dedication to the industry.
His passion is evident with his strong advocacy for AMIC’s Sausage King, Best Butchers Burger and Smallgoods competitions, having previously won the regional gourmet sausage category several years ago.
More recently, Barrow Lane Butchers famous beef sausage won Bronze in the 2021 North Brisbane regional Sausage King event.
“Participation in the regional events is important for local marketing. The many peer and industry networking opportunities that come with these events can be just as important as the bragging rights, if you win.”
Barrow Lane Butchers point of difference is their value-added products which include a range of gourmet sausages and homemade pastries including pies, sausage rolls and enchiladas.
Clinton’s passion and drive are apparent in his plans to modernise the store and take on more apprentices. Currently, Burrow Lane Butchers boosts an impressive team of 10 employees and two apprentices.
Clinton expresses an interest in the possibility of opening another store sometime in the future, to increase customer base and product reach.
“I definitely have plans to renovate and expand, to keep up with consumer desires. The successful, independent retail butchers of the future will be those who can innovate and adapt their products and services for their core local and loyal customers.”
By going the extra mile to ensure all customers walk away feeling satisfied, a loyal and regular customer base can be maintained.
“Our motto at Barrow Lane is that customer service is key, I really believe that creates a successful business.”
Over the next few months, new products and services will be offered to customers, adding to Barrow Lane Butchers unique point of difference and stimulate customer retention.
Some of these include in store cooking and carcase breakdown demonstrations, ready to cook meal packs and hosting food/ nutrition educational evenings.
By practicing what he preaches, Clinton will be able to continue to build upon Ray’s legacy and expand the reach of local independent retail butchers.
Visit their Facebook www.facebook.com/BarrowLaneButcher
