There has been a spate of congratulating and thanking in Nigel Quiney Publications recently.
The publisher has made sure it didn’t miss the opportunity of marking Barbara Wale’s 25th anniversary with the company. The loyal sales rep, who is celebrating her 25 years work anniversary on 19 July has significantly contributed to the company’s success in the area of sales, winning Salesperson of the Year seven times – a company record!
Barbara was presented with a gift at the recent sales launch by managing director Alison Butterworth and thanked for all her hard work and efforts.
Barbara started her career in a bank before moving on to sell curtain rails, then double glazing. She joined Nigel Quiney in 1993 after working for Camden Graphics for three years.
Reflecting back on the last 25 years, Barbara told PG Buzz: “The multiples have had a massive impact on the market, particularly the supermarkets and Card Factory and also garden centres which seem to be permanently busy. Independent accounts are finding it increasingly tough. When I started retailers would try everything new but now they are being more discerning with what they buy. But I enjoy working with them to increase their sales.”
Relationships with customers are vital to business with Barbara saying: “Relationships have to be built on trust. It’s about getting repeat business. I would far rather write a small order with the opportunity of another small one in a few weeks, than no order at all. I love it when I’m told: we’ll give you an order because we like you and you look after us.”
And although life on the road is has its challenges, particularly traffic and car parking, “on the whole the good days far out way the bad,” Barbara adds.
Outside of work Barbara is never happier than when she is looking after her two ponies Tubby and Tiddles. She is a side saddle judge and has enjoyed much success herself in the sport.
Nigel Quiney was on the receiving side of some significant thanks earlier this week when the Saffron Walden-based publisher received a special card in the post – from Prince Harry and his wife Meghan. The card, which features a photograph of the couple of their wedding day was sent to thank Nigel Quiney for sending them such a lovely card that had been created to mark the royal couple’s marriage.
The official message from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said they had been “overwhelmed by all the incredibly kind cards” they had received for their wedding and that they were “so touched” by the trouble that had been taken to write them.
