You’ve seen the faces of Fiesta Farmers (that’s what Fiesta staff call each other!) in the aisles. Here’s your chance to get to know them up close. We’re asking five simple questions to help you get to know Fiesta Farmers a little better.
Meet Joanne, Fiesta Farms’ Head Cashier who’s been with Fiesta for fifteen years this October.
What keeps you working at Fiesta Farms?
I honestly love the atmosphere. There’s a sense of togetherness. We’re here to help each other. It’s truly a family atmosphere.
What hasn’t changed about Fiesta Farms?
Well, I can tell you what has changed. Have you seen the new sign?
Honestly, the store’s commitment to customer service hasn’t changed in the fifteen years I’ve been working here.
A month ago, a woman called asking for Wild Planet tuna. She wanted to buy it in bulk and had difficulty getting the volume she needed in the store. I took her number, ordered her seven cases of tuna, and held them while she was on vacation. That’s what I mean when I talk about customer service.
What’s your favourite aisle?
Aisle three, no question. I’m Italian, and aisle three has everything I need to make Italian meals. It’s the aisle where you’ll find the best pesto, tomatoes, and pasta. I buy Paese Mio pesto, Della Nonna tomato sauce, and (when I feel fancy) Garofalo Mafalda Corta pasta.
What’s your first food memory?
When I was a kid, my grandfather would sometimes look after us. When I was four I remember asking my grandfather for a mortadella sandwich. Mortadella was a staple in Italian homes.
But I meant to ask for a Nutella sandwich.
My grandfather made me the mortadella sandwich I asked for. I can still taste the disappointment.
What’s the most memorable meal you’ve had recently?
My mother’s pasta with sauce and ricotta inspired me to cook. The smell of her cooking lured me into the kitchen, and I watched her and learned to make what she made. I still call her all the time and ask her, “So how do you make this?” She tells me, and most of the time, it works out.
Fiesta is lucky to have such a dedicated team of Fiesta Farmers who greet you in the aisles. Now, tell us, which Fiesta Farmer would you like to meet in our next interview?
