They were recognised recently by the company for their combined 80 years of service to the hardware store, and recalled the changing nature of their work over the years.
Dunedin store checkout operator Bev Newman (9 years’ service), trade managers John Wards (21 years’) and Chris Bremner (20 years’) joined Mosgiel’s Michelle Blampied (30 years’) in making their milestones.
Despite being involved in different fields, all gave the same answer when asked for the highlight of their time working in the store — "the customers’’.
Mrs Blampied joined Jack’s Hardware and Timber in the late 1980s when it was operating in Cumberland St, Dunedin.
She said the biggest change since then was the increasing number of suppliers of a variety of stock.
"In the beginning we had to do a bit of everything, but now the employees are more specialised and have more knowledge about their own areas.’’
She estimated she knew 90% of the Mosgiel customers and their store account numbers — not their bank account numbers.
Mr Bremner said it was quite a journey they had been on, especially since the Mitre 10 Mega store was built in South Dunedin in 2005.
"Back then, we were seen as a retail shop for DIY.
"Now, we are a respected brand for trade staff, and that makes up a big portion of our business."
Ms Newman and Mr Wards retired last week and although they looked forward to having the extra time, both agreed they would miss their colleagues.
Mitre 10 Mega Dunedin and Mosgiel group chief executive officer Neil Finn-House said the business placed great value on its team members and he was delighted to be celebrating these milestones.
- Gus Patterson
