Nada Khallouf and her brothers bought the business 16 years ago and it has since grown to be one of the best known local corner shops in the area.
While Nada sells items typical of most corner shops such as groceries, deli meats, bread, ice cream, drinks, chocolate, lollies and cigarettes, it is her infectious nature, winning smile and willingness to know her customers and their needs that has really set her apart from her competitors.
When she first bought into the business, all Nada wanted to do was simply to work for herself. However she quickly found the benefit of a business such as a corner shop in that it allowed her to meet new people and continue to forge the relationships she has with what she describes as her wonderful customers. In fact, many of her long-standing customers enjoy going to see Nada so much that they if they happen to move, they are willing to jump in their cars and drive, rather than visit another store closer by.
Working seven days a week does have its downsides. Nada says she finds it difficult to have a busy social life, although not being married means she can commit to the business more than someone who is married with children. Nada said that she takes her hat off to those who can manage to balance work, family and social lives, as she isn’t so sure that she would be able to run the business so well if she had a family.
Even though she has a successful business, Nada says she is always looking for ways to improve. She credits a lot of her success to listening to her customers, believing that many a good idea comes from general conversations with people from all walks of life.
Future plans for the business include canvassing Sutherland Shire Council to improve the parking for her store and the other operators who occupy the adjacent shops, as well as a clean-up of the rear laneway.
When time allows, Nada likes to read a good book and do some knitting. She also likes to devote some of her spare time to herself away from the business, going for a walk or taking a swim. Getting outdoors is something she appreciates as most of her week is spent indoors managing the business.
Nada says if she had her time over again she wonders whether she would own a business such as the one she does due to the overall commitment that has to be made in order for it to be successful. However the smile of a friendly and satisfied customer soon makes the effort worthwhile and gives her the knowledge that she is doing something right and that perhaps someone is looking after her after all. | 
