Victoria Tupou has just marked a decade working at PAK’nSAVE, a career that started on the checkout while still at school and has led her to the position of Wavefill Manager at PAK’nSAVE Manukau. Known for her leadership and dedication, Victoria’s journey highlights the values of hard work and opportunity within Foodstuffs’ network of PAK’nSAVE stores.

Victoria began working at PAK’nSAVE Pukekohe in 2015 when she was 16, starting part-time as a Customer Services Assistant while she was still at school. She initially dreamed of becoming a flight attendant, but the buzz she got from working with customers at the store made her realise that her future was with PAK’nSAVE.

“I’ve always been a social person, and I loved the chance to connect with people,” she says. "Once I began, I quickly realised that PAK’nSAVE was where I wanted to be."

Throughout her time at PAK’nSAVE, Victoria has seen her responsibilities evolve - from a full-time role on the checkout after finishing school, to leading a 40-member team as a Customer Services Supervisor. 

In November 2023, she accepted a role at PAK’nSAVE Manukau, where she now manages the Wavefill team, ensuring that shelves are fully stocked across the chilled, frozen, and liquor departments.

Reflecting on her current role , Victoria counts it as one of her biggest achievements, alongside winning the Foodstuffs North Island annual Checker of the Year award in 2021, an internal award that pits PAK’nSAVE, New World and Four Square team members against each other to see who has the fastest scan rate in the co-op. 

“I’d done the competition about four times before but still felt nervous about dropping my items, but the adrenaline kept me going. I couldn’t actually believe I’d won – it was so good!”

Victoria thrives on the challenge each day brings and the support of her team.

“Every day at PAK’nSAVE Manukau brings something different. We have a diverse customer base, and I thrive in the fast-paced environment.

“My managers and the wider team at PAK’nSAVE are incredibly supportive. Whether it’s offering encouragement or helping me develop new skills, I feel backed by my team.”

PAK’nSAVE owner-operator Stephen Lockie says the store has a strong focus on developing and investing in its people.

“We’re committed to nurturing potential and investing in our team members who go above and beyond,” says Stephen. 

“We’re all about creating opportunities for our team members to grow, and we provide all the support and guidance needed for them to take the next steps.

“Not only is Victoria a hard worker and dedicated learner, but she also brings an incredible energy to the store, which is a key part of the store’s success and team dynamic.”

Victoria’s family has also had a strong influence on her career, providing both inspiration and guidance. All her siblings have worked at PAK’nSAVE at one stage. Her brother James is Operations Manager at PAK’nSAVE Manukau, and her sister Latu is 2IC of the Customer Services team at PAK’nSAVE Pukekohe. 

Looking ahead, Victoria is grateful for the work-life balance PAK’nSAVE provides. Her role has allowed her to pursue her passion for travel, with trips across Europe, Japan, Dubai, and plans for Hawaii and Tonga soon.

Victoria’s journey highlights PAK’nSAVE’s commitment to empowering its team members and providing opportunities for professional development.