Inspired by Factorie's inclusive culture and commitment to meaningful causes like mental health, Mia is passionate about creating memorable shopping experiences and fostering connections with customers and her team.

Find out more about Mia and her passion for jeans, her team and the local community (as well as crocheting!).

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Can you tell us a little about Factorie and what inspired you to join the team?
The Factorie team has an amazing culture that is both supportive and encouraging. In the past, I felt that my age was a barrier, but at Factorie, I see so many incredible opportunities and feel incredibly valued. The quality of our clothes is excellent, and our company truly supports important causes. For example, 100% of our $2 donation items go straight to charity! Currently, we’re partnered with the Cotton On Foundation, which supports mental health initiatives and youth programs. So far, we’ve helped over 600 million people!

How do you feel about working in retail?
Working in retail is exciting because it involves understanding what's in season and what's popular with shoppers. Right now, we have all our winter stock that everyone has been eagerly waiting for. We've also launched a fun campaign called "Denim Up," where we're embracing denim styles. For example, we have these $35 mega baggy jeans with adorable designs like hearts on the pockets and stars. They are so cute and really popular!

What’s your favourite item in-store at the moment?
Definitely the new denim styles! I’ve never seen anything like them before.

How would you describe yourself when it comes to work?
I’m adaptable and always happy to take on new tasks. I care about my team and the well-being of the staff. My current area manager has recognised that, and my area manager even offered me the opportunity to go to Geelong to help open a new store. That kind of acknowledgment feels amazing.

Do you think your shop or service helps make customers’ lives easier?
Absolutely! We have team members like Hudson, whom customers adore. They love coming in and asking for his advice on the latest trends and sizing, and he always helps them find exactly what they need.

What’s the funniest or most unusual customer request you’ve received?
Once, a lady asked me to cut her jeans for her—she just held them up and expected me to alter them on the spot! She was convinced that we somehow made jeans in-store and could just whip up a new pair for her.

What’s your favourite time of year at the store?
The holiday season! It’s both the best and most hectic time. I love seeing people come from all over Victoria—Shepparton, Echuca—just to shop. Parents come in saying, “My kids love your store,” and it’s heartwarming. Plus, last-minute shoppers the day before Christmas are always entertaining!

What’s the first thing you do when you arrive at work?
I do a general clean-up and take a moment to admire the store layout, updating any visual merchandise! I love making sure everything looks perfect for customers. On Tuesdays, I also make sure our planning documents and task lists are all set for the week.

What fashion trends are you excited about?
I’m excited for the return of low-rise jeans and Y2K-style shorts. We’ve also received customer feedback about winter fashion, so we’re looking at bringing in pants and long-sleeve tops with fluffy trims—very 90s and super cute!

Where are you from originally?
I moved here from Queensland in 2012 with my mom, stepdad, sister, and two younger brothers. I started high school here, and it was a great experience.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work?
This might make me sound old, but I absolutely love crocheting! It's so much fun, and I really enjoy seeing how my projects turn out.

What was your dream job as a child?
I was obsessed with animals—especially dogs. I wanted to work with them all the time. But as I got older, I realized the emotional side of working with animals could be tough. My friend is a vet, and she says it changed her forever.

What do you love most about working at this store?
There’s such a strong sense of community. Bendigo is an older town with an older demographic, and that sense of connection still exists here. Even store managers from nearby shops come over to introduce themselves, which makes for a friendly environment.

At Lansell Square the sense of community and culture is outstanding - there’s a genuine connection, not just between employees but with customers too. I love the relationships we build here, and it makes the workplace feel like a second home.