John Lewis & Partners’ Matt Thomas and Fenwick Group’s Helen Miller provide some reasons for to cheerful in another of HousewaresNews.net’s short Q&A series.
Helen Miller, buyer from Fenwick Group:
What are you most proud of about the housewares industry?“
Retailing has changed environmentally over the last ten years or so, and each category has had to adapt to survive. The housewares industry has always remained positive throughout, which has to be a credit to all the people involved. “
What has made you smile at work recently?
“I have moved office recently and have a window! After 37 years!! Love it! “
Who is your local hero (or housewares hero)?
“That’s easy! Dean Hawes, assistant buyer of cook & dine, Fenwick. He keeps me sane with his calmness, organisational skills, product knowledge. I could go on… Oh, and he is a really nice guy!”
Matt Thomas, buyer from John Lewis & Partners
What has made you smile at work recently?
“Gabbi Anderson, my mad crazy assistant buyer! Her energy and passion for product is infectious as is her zest for life!”
Who is your local hero (or housewares hero)?
“Richard Walker of Eddingtons. Richard is a fountain of knowledge and when given a task to hunt down a product or idea, he always goes about it in an energetic way. He has an excellent commercial eye and can spot a winner – which most people would walk straight past.”
Top: Helen Miller of Fenwick and Matt Thomas of John Lewis & Partners (pictured at the recent Excellence in Housewares Awards Product Judging Day).
