By George Anderson
Larry Johnston, chief executive, Albertsons has done quite a bit since arriving at the chain from GE a couple of years back.
He has moved the chain out of markets where it was under-performing, invested $1.7 billion in store remodels, warehouse facilities, etc., and created stores that combine Osco or Sav-on drugstores with an Albertsons.
Mr. Johnston has also tried to bring a positive attitude to the Albertsons organization which is why the company will have spent approximately $10 million on motivational training by the end of next year.
In the March 3 issue of Forbes, Mr. Johnston says, "Positive attitude is the single biggest thing that can change a business."
He adds, "We're in the business of the maintenance and acquisition of customers. That provides a lot of opportunities for customer service. We've got to energize the associates."
Moderator's Comment: How would you grade the average retail executive and store manager on their motivational skills? How important is the ability to motivate employees to a retailer's bottom line?
Note to Larry Johnston: $10 million may not be enough. [George Anderson - Moderator]