retra, the independent radio, electrical and television retailers’ association, said a fond farewell to Phil Potter, the area representative for the North West, Midlands and Wales, at its recent annual conference after 17 years with the organisation.
Phil has spent 52 years in the industry and can remember when petrol cost 6p a litre and TV sets about eight weeks’ wages. He says the time he spent at retra was the most interesting because of the huge number of innovations in brown and white goods over that period.
He is proud of his involvement with retra Insurance Services, which has grown from humble beginnings offering data-safe extended warranties to providing a range of benefits for members including comprehensive warranties for electrical products.
Despite the continuing price and profit erosion and the increase in competition from supermarkets, Phil believes there is still a place for independents. He says: “The best independents with well-trained staff will always survive if profit not turnover is the goal.”
Phil cannot recall any bad times at retra and says one of the numerous highlights was the warm send-off he and his wife Elizabeth received from members at the retra conference, and the many emails and cards he has received wishing all the best for the future. He says: “The well-wishing cards and emails have left me with a warm glow.
“It will be strange to adjust to a different way of life but we plan to do more walking and have more holidays. Then there’s the house repairs and seeing the grandchildren, I certainly don’t have time to go to work!”
Bryan Lovewell, Chief Executive of retra, says: “Everyone at retra is sad to see Phil go after so many years of wonderful service. We will miss his dedication, enthusiasm and wealth of experience and knowledge, and wish him and Elizabeth all the very best for the future.”
For more details on retra please call 01234 269110, email retra@retra.co.uk or visit www.retra.co.uk
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Phil and Elizabeth Potter. Phil has retired as retra Area Representative for the North West, Midlands and Wales after 17 years.
Ends
10th June 2010
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