Harlech Foodservice Celebrates 269 Years of Employee Loyalty

Harlech Foodservice has recently celebrated the remarkable commitment of its employees, recognizing ten staff members who collectively have amassed an impressive total of 269 years of service. Among them is Manon Lloyd Jones, who began her journey with the company at the age of 16 and has dedicated 41 years to the family-run business based in Cricieth, Wales.

During a special ceremony, the long-serving employees were honored with gifts, including bottles of Lanson champagne and £100 vouchers. The presentation was made by Chairman Andrew Foskett and his sister, Director Laura Foskett, who expressed their gratitude for the hard work and loyalty of their team.

Reflecting on her extensive tenure, Manon shared, “I’ve done pretty much everything here. I started when I wanted to go into nursing, but Colin Foskett, who founded the business, offered me a summer job, and I’m still here.” She noted that during her time at Harlech, she has only taken a total of 12 weeks off for maternity leave over the years while raising three sons. “I’m still enjoying it, and when I don’t, I’ll stop,” she added with a touch of humor.

Notably, Paul Owen, who joined Harlech as a sales representative when the company expanded into dairy products, has spent over 20 years with the firm. Now serving as the National Key Account Manager, he manages significant accounts, including Hickory’s Smokehouse, which operates 36 restaurants across the UK. He remarked on the company’s growth from a £10 million turnover to over £50 million annually, stating, “It’s been brilliant to be a part of that.”

Another long-serving employee, Ian Rogers, started his career with Harlech at the age of 18. Having transitioned from packing orders to training as an HGV driver, he has spent 37 years with the company. “I love the job going out on the road. You’re your own boss and you get to meet the customers,” Ian said, highlighting the camaraderie he shares with his colleagues.

Andrew Foskett emphasized the company’s commitment to being a good employer, noting the limited number of large employers in the area. “All these colleagues here today have known our parents who started the business, and we must have been doing something right,” he said. Laura Foskett added, “It’s always nice to know that people enjoy working for Harlech and want to stay here.”

Among the other honorees were Finance Director Mike Clishem, who has been with the company for 25 years, and several others, including Paul Monaghan with 36 years, and Huw Watkin-Griffith with 30 years of service.

Harlech Foodservice, founded in 1972 by Colin and Gill Foskett, has experienced significant growth over the years. Last year, the company announced a £6 million growth plan, which has already resulted in new depots opening in Carmarthen, Caerphilly, and Telford. This expansion has created over 100 new jobs, increasing the workforce to nearly 300 employees.

The company now operates a fleet of 90 vehicles and delivers approximately 5,000 product lines to various sectors, including restaurants, schools, and hospitals across Wales and England. As the founders’ children, Jonathan, Andrew, and Laura, continue to lead the firm, a third generation of the family is also beginning to make its mark within the organization.

Harlech Foodservice remains a vital player in the local economy, reinforcing its commitment to its employees and the community. For more information, visit their website.