Tillicoultry furnishing and homeware store Sterling Home is celebrating employee Ruby Gondek's 50 years of service.
Ruby’s journey began in what was then known as Knowles the Furnishers, the original business that would evolve into Sterling Furniture and, more recently, Sterling Home.
When she first began her furniture career in 1976, a brand-new sofa would cost between £80 and £150.
Having just moved to the area, Ruby first encountered the store as a customer, purchasing carpets and arranging custom-made curtains through the Knowles carpet shop.
“When I saw a position advertised for weekend work in the cash office, it suited me perfectly as I’d been working in a bank,” Ruby recalls. “The motivation was initially financial, but what truly stood out, and has kept me here ever since, was the real family feeling within the business. That sense of belonging and how approachable the family and management are makes all the difference.”
Starting in an office-based role, Ruby quickly became a familiar and valued presence across the store, stepping in to support the sales team during busy periods.
Over the decades, her career has evolved alongside the business itself. Ruby now works on the shop floor as a sales associate, helping customers find the right furniture for their homes and sharing her product knowledge.
“Part of why I love my job so much and have stayed in it so long is the social aspect. I enjoy interacting with people and building relationships with customers and colleagues,” says Ruby.
Today, Sterling Home’s flagship Tillicoultry store continues to attract visitors from across Scotland and beyond, the branch recently undergoing its biggest refurbishment in 50 years following a multi-million-pound transformation.
Ruby has witnessed first-hand the transformation of the store. What began as a single showroom with suites displayed on racks and only two small offices has grown into a multi-level retail destination offering furniture and decor from around the world.
Euan Graham, buying and marketing director and 5th generation family-owner at Sterling Home, says: “I’ve known Ruby my whole life. Her personality is infectious, and she cares about our customers more than anything. You see it every day, and it’s why she’s so well liked across the team.
"I grew up running about the Tillicoultry store with Ruby never too far away, and she even sang at my parents’ wedding, so she’s always been part of our story.
"Her dedication over nearly 50 years is incredible. She represents everything we stand for as a family business – caring, hard working, and always putting people first.”
Reflecting on her long career, Ruby is also keen to encourage the next generation to consider opportunities in retail and hospitality.
“These industries offer fantastic opportunities for progression,” she says. “People can sometimes be put off by weekend work or late hours, but things are changing. There’s more flexibility now, and the rewards both professionally and personally can be great.”
Even after nearly five decades, Ruby’s enthusiasm for her work remains as strong as ever.
“I still find so much to love about Sterling Home – especially my colleagues. No matter what role they have, we all work together as a team. That’s what makes this place so special,” she states.
Ruby will celebrate 50 years of dedication to the brand in November, with plans for a celebration already under way – and no retirement plans as of yet.
