Hi my name is Francesca, 7 years experience working within this industry; 3 years at ‘Food For Thought’ in Kingston, nearly 2 years at ‘Olivers’ in Kew and over a year working as a Brand Representative for Fushi. Working in the health industry has given me a passion about operating with people and communicating with them about their health needs. Attending a range of health related training opportunities has led me to set up training programmes for colleagues to share product knowledge and promotion of new products. I have a real passion for helping and serving customers who come to these shops as a stepping-stone to improving their health. There is a real thrill from helping a customer who then comes back and shares how the medicine has helped their life/illness.I then went to work with Fushi - I got the amazing opportunity new shops, suppliers and brands. I trained staff members on our products, how we make them and how they work medicinally. It was a really great job, constantly expanding my knowledge on what’s new on the market, what supplements sell the best, the sustainability aspect behind herbs and the origins of them. I was in charge of my own schedule, contacting shops and managers fitting them into my diary and keeping commitments. Making and strengthening relationships between us and suppliers and shops as well.As I decided to continue with some studies I moved to Epiczen where I could work more flexible hours. This is a rather new health food store in the heart of London, Angel Islington. The two owners are really great and have their finger on the pulse of the movement of this industry. It's been great to share my knowledge and relationship with reps and brand ambassadors - suggesting new products to be brought in store, and new brands and suppliers as well. I have enjoyed this time but now feel like with my experience I really need to be challenged and to use all my knowledge going forward.