King's Lynn company celebrates long-serving staff

Williams Refrigeration has recognised its latest long-serving employees, celebrating a combined 270 years of service between them.

This year saw 11 employees from the business in Bryggen Road, North Lynn, reach significant milestones of 20, 30 and 40 years achieving a combined 250 years

To celebrate the occasion, the long service achievements were marked with a hog roast lunch and gift awards, as well as special anniversary work wear to all staff following the company’s own milestone of 40 years.

Both Paul Belson, production engineer, and Richard Benefer, maintenance operator, each celebrated 40 years of service, while Rachel Smith, SOP supervisor, reached 30 years.

Celebrating two decades at the business, Andy Ward, area sales manager said: “Over the 20 years there have been a fair few changes, including a change of ownership, however when I look around the sales team as well as at all the departments at King’s Lynn and group companies, there are a lot of people that have been with us longer than I have so in some ways I still feel like a newcomer.

“I have enjoyed my time working for Williams, who are in my opinion the best company within our industry, and hope to continue well into the future.”

Also achieving 20 years is Tony Smith, IT technical administrator, and Vikki Panks, spares supervisor.

Vikki said: “If you’d have told a 16-year-old me that I would be here 20 years later I would never have believed you. I enjoy my job and I like a lot of the people I work with.”

Since its inception in 1980, Williams Refrigeration has continually developed and grown alongside its loyal workforce.

The business employs over 200 people across the UK and its latest milestone is testament to both the company and employees.

There was a special mention for John Leggett who sadly passed away last month who would have also celebrated 20 years at Williams and the company paid tribute to his long and loyal service and offers its sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Tim Smith, managing director, said: “Williams Refrigeration is renowned for its long-serving employees. We think it says something that we have so many employees who stay with us for most, if not all, of their working life.

“It is a pleasure to celebrate the continued long service commitment and loyalty of Williams colleagues. Congratulations to all on their fantastic achievements.”

Staff recognised for their long service are: 40 Years Paul Belson, Richard Benefer; 30 Years Rachel Smith; 20 Years Andy Ward, Tony Smith, Vikki Panks, Michael Gathercole, Jason Staines, Paul Wheatley, Paul Brooks, John Leggett.

Williams Refrigeration offers a comprehensive range of commercial refrigeration including gastronorm cabinets and counters, specialist bakery equipment, coldrooms, merchandisers and blast chillers.