Staff Highlight: Gus Hatch
How did you first get involved with the co-op? What brought you here?
After 4+ years working in the trades, I was yearning to be back in the far more friendly and comfortable coop environment. Initially, as a dichotomy to balance my HVAC work, I quickly realized that Good Tern was where I wanted to spend the majority of my time. It was a pleasure diving right in, getting cross-trained in several departments, and getting a real good feel for the flow of things. Welcomed by a super friendly staff and awesome management, I knew I was in the right place.
Did you have any co-op or food-related experience before working here?
Yup, My co-op roots run deep! My mom was the produce manager at the Putney Co-op in Vermont for several years. I spent a lot of time after school hanging out in the backroom playing with produce. ended up working there on the front end, one of my first jobs as a teen, and came back to help out during my summers off from college. Worked at the Brattleboro Co-op for a while in my 20s as well.
Coops have always been my happy place as far as work environments go, and Good Tern is certainly no exception, I really love it here!
What’s a typical day like for you? Or — is there even such a thing as a "typical day"?
Never a typical day for me here. I often find myself scrambling around from department to department, tidying up any loose ends, making things look as pretty, full and shoppable for our awesome customers as I can. I also love taking on whatever “special projects” come my way.
What’s your favorite part of working here?
I feel a strong sense of purpose in my role here, along with the entire staff. Being able to provide healthy, local and delicious food items to our community, along with a fun and inviting shopping experience. It’s incredibly rewarding.
How do you think the co-op builds a different kind of relationship with shoppers than a conventional store?
I think it all comes down to the staff we have. Everyone on the floor is friendly and engaging, which creates a super comfortable environment for our shoppers. We tend to far go out of our way to track down whatever item is needed, even if it ends up being a wild goose chase. Personally, I’ve found myself on several occasions having deep talks with shoppers in the bulk aisle about the most random things. I think those personal touches we provide as a staff, and our tendency to go way above and beyond, are what really sets us apart from your standard grocery store.
Do you have a favorite product the co-op carries that people should know about?
Sinless pop caramel popcorn, hands down.
Probably the most addicting snack I’ve come across, it’s borderline a problem
What does being part of a co-op mean to you — beyond just the job?
I feel like with a co-op, we create our own little tight-knit community. One where both shoppers and staff have a safe space to be themselves, see some friendly faces, spread the word about local happenings, and just feel a sense of support. At the end of the day, we are way more than just a source for good, healthy food. We’re also a communal space for folks to build friendships, even if it’s only during their 15-minute shopping experience. It’s a special vibe.
What's one thing your coworkers or customers do that always makes you smile?
Ron at the front end, always having a new and exciting topic of discussion for the day.
