UK | The M&S Ladymead Guildford team celebrated the store’s one-year anniversary.
M&S unveiled its brand new 15,000 sq ft fresh market-style foodhall last June with an inflatable giant Percy Pig and ribbon cutting, with long-serving colleague Lesley Bradshaw doing the honours.
The store team set up a spread of M&S treats backstage to mark the occasion.
There’s also another cause for celebration as Store Manager Amelia Holwill marked 20 years at M&S, having first joined as a weekend Customer Assistant in Clothing at M&S’ High Street store in Guildford.
“I can’t believe it has already been a year since we opened. It’s been lovely to meet all our new customers and to be on first-name terms with our regular shoppers,” said Holwill.
“A personal highlight for me was delivering a really strong Christmas. It’s always such a special time to work in retail, and you could feel the excitement among colleagues and customers, which was fantastic.”
She added that customers have been loving the in-store bakery, especially the popular Collection Sourdough, which made the whole store smell amazing.
Another big customer favourite is the small-sized trolleys, as children just absolutely love getting involved with the shopping list and playing with the interactive Percy Pig button.
At the moment, the buzz is all about the new products just launched, especially the tiramisu desserts and cookie cups.
“We have so many people coming into the store asking about them.”
Her personal favourite is the beautiful British peony, which brings the energy of summer.
Holwill thanked all customers for supporting M&S Ladymead Guildford in its first year, her team for their hard work, and the community for welcoming them.
“I absolutely love working in retail, and running a shop like Guildford Ladymead is really a career dream come true for me. When I started at M&S twenty years ago, I probably didn’t realise the career path I could have, but you learn so much as you work your way up,” Holwill added.
“I’ve been so lucky to have so many opportunities and to have colleagues who have turned into friends. Luckily, I also like being busy and always on the go, which is an absolute essential when you are a Store Manager, as you definitely get the steps in.”
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