In this issue, the JN Money team catches up with Andrew Morris, roprietor of the Sam West Indian Grocery Store in West Hempstead, Long Island, New York City. Mr Morris has been a JN Money Agent for close to three decades. Here’s what he had to say:
- When did you become a JN Money Agent?
I immigrated to Hempstead, Long Island, New York City in 1988 after marrying my wife. After some time, we noticed there was a gap in the market, as the Caribbean Community in our area was underserved. We had seen the success of other Caribbean-themed stores in other boroughs and decided to bring similar offerings to our local community.
Our relationship with Jamaica National started in 1999 after one of my employees’ brother, Harry Bhoorasingh, became General Manager in New York. We sat down with Harry, reached amicable terms, and decided to become a JN Money Agent. It was a great decision which continues to pay dividends to this very day.
- What does a typical day look like for you as a JN Money Agent?
A lot of people come to the store daily and at least four or five of them that come to buy food or groceries also use JN Money Services to send cash overseas. It’s a symbiotic relationship. Some people discover we offer the services while shopping right there in the store and choose to make transactions on the spot. It’s value added, which has helped us with repeat business.
- What’s your favourite part of working with JN Money?
In general, the fact that Jamaican National is such a grassroots company gives an allure to our customers and a sense of pride. It helps to give us a stamp of authenticity and signals to our client base that we all have the same background.
- What keeps you motivated in your work?
I have a genuine love for people, and I love being of service to them. I’m always thinking of how I can serve my customers better. I’m always striving to improve my customer experience, both in terms of in-store aesthetic and convenience for my clients.
- Describe one standout customer interaction you’ve had as a JN Money Agent
One time a Caucasian woman walked in and said she wanted to send US$5,000 to Jamaica. Immediately my antenna went up and I said to myself that something didn’t seem right. She was on the phone the entire time and was saying things like “I’m doing it” and “It’ll be there right now”. This raised my suspicions and I cautioned her that it may be lottery scamming and money laundering, but she was adamant that the funds were being sent to a family member. I finally relented and allowed the transfer to go through. However, as soon as she left the store, I alerted JN and told them I was highly sceptical of what had happened and they immediately put the funds on hold. After an investigation was conducted, we found out that it was indeed lottery scamming. We saved her from being a victim of fraud and she returned and got back all her money. I always remember that incident and credit JN for the swift and decisive action in the matter and for ultimately helping me protect my customer.
- What’s your approach to building trust with your clients and delivering great customer service every day?
People must know you’re dependable. People must know you’re of your word. We always keep things transparent, even when things aren’t the greatest. I teach my staff the same thing and that trickles down to all the interactions we have.
- What’s one thing your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?
My colleagues would probably be surprised to know that I’m a devoted Christian. I’m a Catholic and that’s how I was raised all my life. I don’t preach but I try to lead by example through my interactions with the people I encounter. I don’t speak on my faith, but I feel it should be reflected in my actions and not my words. I simply treat others the way I would want to be treated.
