125 Years of Family Serving Family – Zaida Torres, Fort Buchanan
Zaida Torres has been an associate at the Fort Buchanan Exchange since 1980.
One in a series of honoring the Exchange’s 125 years of family serving family
Since 1980, Zaida Torres has been a fixture at the Fort Buchanan Exchange.
She began her career there as an ID checker and worked in several departments—including Softlines, Health and Beauty, Car Care and Toys—before becoming a Main Store cashier 19 years ago.
On Nov. 5, Torres was honored with a ceremony recognizing her 40 years of service to the Exchange.
South East Regional Vice President Tony Pares attended the event virtually and presented Torres a coin on behalf of Exchange Director/CEO Tom Shull and COO Jason Rosenberg.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity the Exchange has given me,” Torres said. “With this job, I was able to raise two beautiful daughters.”
Torres enjoys interacting with Exchange shoppers as they check out.
“It’s a pleasure to talk to them and listen to what they have to say,” she said. “I like explaining the Exchange Protection Plans and offering them the MILITARY STAR card. They make my day go by with ease.”
When hurricanes Irma and Maria slammed into Puerto Rico within weeks of each other, it was a difficult time for
Torres both personally and professionally, as the island dealt with no power and frequent floods. The Exchange closed temporarily as a result of Hurricane Maria.
“It was hard for everyone to adapt,” Torres said. “When everything started getting back to normal, I was happy to get back to work and serve our customers.”
“Zaida has such a positive effect on our customers and the Main Store team,” said Puerto Rico Exchange General Manager Thea Sarver.
That effect was evident during Torres’ recognition ceremony, as shoppers stopped to applaud and congratulate her.
“They were excited to share in this event with her,” Sarver said. “Zaida loves taking care of our customers. She truly believes in our mission and embodies our core values.”
After 40 years on the job, Torres said she has no plans to slow down.
“I will continue to give my all for the Exchange. I love my job.”
On Nov. 5, Zaida Torres was honored with a ceremony recognizing her 40 years of service to the Exchange.
