Grantham Journal Big Interview: Businessperson of the Year Debbie Rogers of The Boutique

Businessperson of the Year Debbie Rogers earned her title by providing the personal touch to customers at The Boutique on Guildhall Street.

Not only does she offer a mix of fashion, handbags, accessories and footwear, but often sources ‘that item’ you’ve seen. We spoke to the worthy winner.

How did it feel to be named Businessperson of the Year?

I was overwhelmed. We have worked so hard to listen to our customers and bring a unique shopping experience to Grantham. Every year since we opened we’ve reached the finals of the Business Awards, and without the support of my customers and Grantham this would not have been possible, so I would like to thank them for that opportunity. I also want to thank Grantham Business Club for their continuous support.

How long has The Boutique been open and what made you decide to set it up?

We have been trading for nearly four successful years. I decided to open The Boutique because I felt Grantham was needing a different, unique shopping experience for all ages with a different look at fashion and accessories. Each year we have expanded our product range – the Italian range has been a great success with our ladies and we feel that through listening and talking to our customers we have gained their confidence which has given us return business.

What can the customers expect from The Boutique?

Amazing customer service from all our staff, unique, stunning fashion and accessories, and we have new stock every week. We have just expanded upstairs, too. Most importantly, customers will find a friendly smile and shopping atmosphere - in the shop you never really want to leave.

At the awards you talked about the importance of local businesses working together. Can you explain more about this?

Grantham has a great many independent retailers that have so much to offer in knowledge and one-to-one customer service that you don’t get with the larger companies or websites, and most of all they have time and patience. I feel that if we all worked together as a team we can make Grantham an even better place in which to shop.