Williams Refrigeration honoured ten of its longest-serving employees with awards and a celebratory lunch on August 22nd. Collectively, these dedicated team members have accrued an impressive 210 years of service, each having been with the company for at least two decades.
At a time when staff retention remains a significant challenge for many companies, Williams Refrigeration seems to have found the key to keeping employees satisfied and committed. Robert Smith, purchasing manager with 30 years of service, attributes this to various factors. “The trust to be allowed to make vital decisions, the support, the fast pace, and how Williams is always moving,” he said. “I never get bored; it always challenges me!”
Steve Leslie, managing director at Williams Refrigeration in Scotland and a recipient of a 20-year service award, believes that long-term staff retention contributes to overall workplace efficiency. “Their experience means they know exactly what’s required, which makes life much easier for everyone,” he stated. “The team are a great bunch and make my working life enjoyable.”
Technology has been the most significant change over the years, according to Robert Smith, with Ian Wiggins, a production operative with 20 years at the King’s Lynn plant, highlighting the increased environmental friendliness of products and advances in health and safety.
“We have a wonderful record of long-serving staff. Each year we honour those who reach these milestones, and each year I’m humbled by their commitment and loyalty. I’m proud of the whole team we have here; every single one contributes to our success,” said Tim Smith, managing director of Williams Refrigeration.
Staff celebrating their long service awards include:
30 Years:
Robert Smith, purchasing manager, King’s Lynn
20 Years:
Darren Hall, technician, King’s Lynn
Michael Steward, stores operative, King’s Lynn
Ian Wiggins, production operative, King’s Lynn
Lynette Wixey, purchase ledger supervisor, King’s Lynn
Paul Mason, production operative, King’s Lynn
Lee White, senior refrigeration design engineer, King’s Lynn
David Hayton, warehouse operative, Central Contracting Unit, Doncaster
Stephen Leslie, managing director, Scotland Contracting Unit, Edinburgh
Steve Langford, sales project manager, Southern Contracting Unit, Maidenhead
