A local chairman and founder of a chain of Sussex based stores has celebrated his 70th birthday with two younger generations, who are also members of the team in the family-run business.
John Pickering, with his wife Sandra, first bought a general furnishing business in St Leonards on Sea 40 years ago. Three years later, following a visit to a summer trade show, they decided to open a brand new store specialising in beds and mattresses in Hastings.
Now, 37 years on, Sussex Beds has eight outlets across the South East and is staffed by several family members with many other local employees.
To celebrate John’s milestone birthday, three generations came together and raised a glass to both his birthday and the success of Sussex Beds.
John commented: “Although I am in semi-retirement I continue to help steer and drive Sussex Beds forward. I also sometimes pop down to a showroom floor and meet and chat with customers. Being 70 isn’t going to change that. I’m very lucky that I am able to work and celebrate my birthdays with my work colleagues, that I am also proud to call my family. Thank you to all the customers who have been our friends too over all these years.”
