Marie Johnston Celebrates 50 Years of Service at Tesco in Belfast

A woman from east Belfast has marked an impressive milestone, celebrating 50 years of dedicated service with Tesco. Marie Johnston began her career in the 1970s with Stewarts and transitioned to Tesco in 1996, following the supermarket’s entry into Northern Ireland. Colleagues and former employees gathered to honour her remarkable journey at a surprise party held at the Castlereagh Road branch.

During the celebration on August 18, 2025, Johnston reflected on her early days in the workforce. “After I left school, I walked up and down this road with a friend looking for jobs,” she said. “When I got home, my mother told me, ‘They want you down in Stewarts.’” Johnston started working there the next day, eventually moving to the Connswater location before settling at Tesco’s Castlereagh Road branch, where she has worked for the past 12 to 13 years.

Johnston expressed her love for her role, stating, “I like coming in and meeting all of the customers. I know some of them from Connswater and the Newtownards Road as well.” She reminisced about her time working at the meat counter and other aisles, highlighting the changes in the store environment over the years.

The celebration included heartfelt speeches from colleagues. Simon McNeill, former store manager from 2018 to 2024, praised Johnston’s commitment, calling her “a fantastic ambassador for Tesco.” He noted, “To remain loyal to Tesco for that length of time is fantastic. She is a stalwart of great customer service.”

Long-time colleague and current customer experience manager, Lynn Mann, also shared her admiration for Johnston. “I have worked with Marie since I was 18 years old. She started as my manager, and now I am her manager. She is brilliant to work with and a great friend.” Mann emphasized the importance of Johnston’s role in mentoring new staff members.

Johnston’s celebration is a testament to her enduring dedication to customer service and her deep connection with the community. Her colleagues expressed their gratitude and respect, acknowledging her as a vital part of the Tesco team.

As Johnston looks ahead, she continues to embody the ethos of Tesco, reminding both customers and coworkers of the value of commitment and service in the retail industry.