much they listened. Brighter lighting, more spacious aisles, eye-catching signs and a wider selection of quality brands have radically transformed the Reid Street store to better suit customers' needs. "The store was getting a bit antiquated and needed a refreshing change,'' explained John Fryer, manager of the Phoenix Drug Store. "Everybody who comes in and remembers (what it looked like before) thinks it's great. The entire public seems to think the change is positive. Customers love the wider aisles and the decor is really nice and very professional.'' With the greeting card selection moved to the second floor, Mr. Fryer said changes to the drug store area were made possible. "The change has made a real increase in our workload as it effectively has doubled our space and made it possible to do what we did. The new store is very positive. We've moved the Stationery Department, which was upstairs, down to the back of the store, and increased some of the items that we carry. "One of the biggest focuses in the drug store is customer service, and as such, we've instituted such things as the Phoenix Store's `Everyday Low Price' on selected items -- those which are most popular with our customers -- and reduced them to give customers what they are looking for at a better price.'' Mr. Fryer, started working with the Bermuda General Agency two years ago as its Chief Security Officer after having worked on the Police Force for A new experience Drug Store in November of last year. The recent changes on his floor required additional staff to better serve the customers so that he now has a total number of nine full-time staff with almost as many part-timers during peak periods and on weekends. In addition, there are eight staff members who only work on Sundays. "I am responsible for staffing, dealing with vendors and wholesale companies, ensuring that we have the shelves full, that all the goods are checked when they come in and that we give good customer service,'' he said. "Especially with the store having been changed around, some of the longterm customers can't immediately find where certain items are and so we're trying to help them find things quickly. "It's been a whole new experience for me. Having been in the Police force for 18 years and all of a sudden, I'm doing retail. It's a big change, and a challenge which I really looked forward to. I think being in the Police gave me a good foundation for dealing with customers because I spend so much time dealing with customers and as manager, have to be able to supervise people with different personalities.'' As part of the week-long celebrations within the Phoenix Centre, the Drug Store will run a series of promotions, Mr. Fryer said. "There's going to be a lot of tastings and samplings and a lot of promotions which will be a real bonus for the public because there will be a lot of savings on a lot of items.'' PHOTO Manager of the Phoenix Drug Store, John Fryer Friendly sights on the main floor! And on the main floor...(from left) Gloria Lightbourne, Tina Desilva and Carol Tyrell help make finding products easier for customers Bullpen cashier, Stanton Somersall helps customers in both the Hallmark Department and the Bookmart Gloria Lightbourne began working with the company 36 years ago as a cashier. Today, she's changed to the main floor, but still loves her job Staff at the checkout counter on the main floor always have a ready smile for customers. Shown, Tokunbo Atiba, Brenton Richardson and Tina Desilva There's lots in store for Phoenix shoppers this week PHOENIX BUSINESS BUC