Kennedys Betta Home Living
anelle J Given
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stablished by Horrie Kennedy in 1929, Kennedys Betta Home Living has become a household name in the region. Now specialising in a range of services including sales, deliveries, spare parts, repairs, and more recently rentals and mobility products, it is one of the few businesses that have serviced Cairns for close to a century. As a third generation family member, Store Manager Janelle Given successfully combines a modern approach with the old fashioned values the business is famous for. While Janelle admits she didn’t always plan to join the business, as time went by she began to recognise the importance of her family legacy. So, after studying in Brisbane she returned to undertake a traineeship at Kennedys, eventually establishing an independent computer division with her mother Leonie. “When I began to appreciate the history and reputation behind the business I realised I really did want to continue the hard work that was laid down by my predecessors,” she says. During her time as Store Manager, Janelle has overseen a number of major development deals and received numerous accolades. In addition to being Chairperson of Retravision Northern Zone in 20112012, and Northern Region Representative in the Retravision Qld Sales & Marketing Committee, she was also a finalist in the 2009 Cairns Business Woman of the Year Awards. But perhaps her biggest achievement to date has been the transition from Retravision to Betta Home Living in 2013. “We now have a new range of products such as mobility scooters, and will also be offering furniture for the first time in our history,” she says. In terms of Kennedy’s longevity, Janelle firmly believes it’s about listening to what customers want and helping them make a confident buying decision. “We pride ourselves on our service, and I believe our customers have
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faith in us as a result,” she says. “With many employees having family members within the business, we also recognise the importance of being flexible and upholding family values.” With a long-standing history in the region, the Kennedys are also avid supporters of local sporting and community events. “The people of Cairns have supported us over the years so we always like to give back where we can,” Janelle says. In the meantime her plans for the future are clear.
“We’re 85 now and I’d love to see us achieve 100 years of trade, but I think that will be up to the next generation!” she laughs. Biggest inspiration Taking our family business in a whole new direction. Greatest obstacle/challenge Retaining my grandfather’s legacy while being relevant to today’s consumers. Career highlights Being appointed Store Manager, and directing the transition to Betta Home Living in 2013. Secret to success Combining modern thinking with oldfashioned service, plus an absolutely brilliant husband and two very supportive children. Future direction Carrying on the family tradition as the store grows and evolves, plus building the strength of Local Appliance Rentals Cairns.