Youth winner praised for her interest in customers

When director of Stratford's Paper Plus Margie Hodgetts employed Lani Maritz, she really did pick a winner.

On Saturday night, for the second time, Lani was named winner of the Romeo Award for Best Service Person - Youth, having won previously in 2011.

"She is just great at her job," says Margie, who says that it is the fact Lani is passionate about her work that makes the difference. "She is a really hard worker and puts the effort in, we are really pleased that she has been recognised for this."

Lani has worked "on and off" for Margie for some years and is now in the shop on Saturdays only, as she is also studying at Art and Design at WITT.

Lani says she was surprised to be named the winner, and thanks Margie for all her support through the years.

And my mum, she is really wonderful and I owe her everything.

Lani Maritz

All nominees were visited by a mystery shopper as part of the judging process, and Lani's mystery shopper gave a glowing report on the service received.

The judge says that Lani greeted with "a warm and welcoming smile, and a lovely friendly greeting", before putting a lot of effort into helping them with their query. Lani was praised for her helpfulness and "awesome customer service", as well as her polite farewell.

This experience is par for the course for all Lani's customers, with one in the store on Monday telling the Stratford Press, "it is always lovely to talk with Lani, she makes everyone feel important and really seems to care about you".

All photos taken on the night of the Romeos are provided courtesy of Ann Coles Photography.