Boost Juice’s Janine Allis: Forget the work/life balance

Janine Allis describes herself as “a girl from the burbs who had no idea about business”. She started her first Boost Juice bar in Adelaide, despite not actually living in the state, in a bid to minimise the financial risk. Eleven years later, there are now 250 stores in 14 countries. Here, she answers the […]

Women's Agenda 14 October, 2012

Janine Allis describes herself as “a girl from the burbs who had no idea about business”.

She started her first Boost Juice bar in Adelaide, despite not actually living in the state, in a bid to minimise the financial risk. Eleven years later, there are now 250 stores in 14 countries.

Here, she answers the Women’s Agenda questions.

Growing up, what kind of career did you want to pursue?

I liked the idea of being a lawyer, but growing up I did not have the focus for the study. My main aim was go on an adventure, which is what I did at 21 when I travelled overseas.

… and as a little girl, what did you imagine working life to be like?

I do not think I gave it much thought. I think like most little girls, I was just following my nose and seeing where life was taking me.

Who is most surprised by your achievements?

My mother. Not because she didn’t believe in me, but she thought a good safe job in the bank was the way to get ahead.

How have women helped shape your success to date?

There have been some amazing people along my journey to have helped me shape my success, both men and women. Probably the main woman who helped me was my mum, as she helped me with my children. I would not have been able to do what we did without her selfless support.

Who inspires you?

There are many inspirational people in the world. Fiona Wood is up there in admiration.

Who do you regard as your mentor?

I have not really had a mentor. There are a great people who have given some great advice alone the journey. Like Geoff Harris (flight center), Lesley Gillespie (Bakers Delight, James Fitzgerald (Muffin Break).

What qualities do you most admire in a female colleague?

Them being themselves.

What is the best path to success in your field of endeavor?

Work hard, take accountability for everything you do and surround yourself with great people.

What’s the key to successfully balancing work and life?

Understanding that there is a time in your business life that to be successful you need to throw the idea of “work-life balance” out the window and commit everything to the success of your venture.