Employees from across all four Glasswells stores and its warehouses, alongside retired employees and members of the Glasswell family, gathered on 18th July to celebrate the company's 80th anniversary at a gala hosted at the Glasswells Home Department Store on Newmarket Road, Bury St Edmunds.
The evening marked eight decades since Jerry and Ethel Glasswell opened their first shop in Brentgovel Street in 1946. From those modest beginnings, the family business has grown into one of Suffolk's best-known home furnishing retailers.
The anniversary gala was an opportunity to celebrate the company's history and, most importantly, the employees who helped shape Glasswells over the past 80 years.
The furniture showroom was transformed, and 250 guests enjoyed an evening of food provided by Roffs Caterers, live music from Aston Band, alongside entertainment from magician Paul Martin.
The evening also provided an opportunity to recognise and reward employees for their hard work, dedication and long service to Glasswells. A Supernova Award was presented to Brian Bugg, furniture manager at the Bury St Edmunds store, in recognition of his exceptional contribution, hard work and dedication to Glasswells. Brian first joined the company after leaving school and has continued to make an outstanding contribution throughout his 43-year long career.
Three employees – Rachel Phillips, Ady Byford and Rick Hale – were awarded for 30 years of service, while Debbie Cram, Charmaine Smith and Mark Bartlett were recognised for their 20 years with the company.
Speaking during the celebrations, MD Paul Glasswell said: “Tonight is a celebration of four score years and an opportunity to say thanks to you, our staff. We have been fortunate to have some really great workers over the 80 years. People with energy, inspiration, leadership and good sense, people who cared, people who we all admired because to them second best was not good enough and tomorrow was too late.”
