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We’re so proud that our people feel like Bettys and Taylors is a place they can stay and build a career. Our congratulations go to Winnie Donaldson from Bettys Ilkley on forty years of service. Here Winnie tells us more about her story…

What was your job when you first joined the business?

I started on 23rd September 1985 as a part-time waitress at the Ilkley branch. I originally joined to cover someone on maternity leave – there were actually only four wait staff at the time. When the team member didn’t return from maternity leave, I was offered the opportunity to stay on permanently, which I was delighted about.

What is your role now?

Within two years of starting, I became a Trainer, a role I’m still in and incredibly proud of. Over the years, I’ve trained so many people, and quite a few have come back to thank me for being a good trainer. They’ve shared how the training they received at Bettys helped them throughout their lives, as they moved into different careers and roles. It’s lovely to hear, and a real achievement.

Can you tell us what a typical day is like?

There’s no such thing as a typical day! Each morning, we’re allocated to a section, and if I’m training, I’ll be told who I’m working with. But things can change quickly, and we adapt constantly. The pace and variety, especially with customers, means no two days are ever the same.

Do you have a favourite memory or achievement from the last four decades?

Becoming a trainer is definitely one of my proudest achievements. I’ve met so many people – customers, colleagues, even celebrities. It’s hard to pick just one moment because there have been so many. Watching the business grow to what it is now has been incredible. I remember writing orders, adding them to make handwritten bills with triple copies, and now we use iPads. It’s amazing how far we’ve come.

What advice would you give to someone who has just started working at Bettys & Taylors?

Enjoy your job and appreciate what you have. The company has changed a lot – and all for the better. If you embrace the culture and values here, you’ll find real opportunities to grow. Be proud of where you work, it’s a great job with a strong heritage behind it.

What is one word you’d use to sum up your time at Bettys & Taylors?

An absolute pleasure!

What does being part of the Bettys & Taylors community mean to you?

Being part of this business is amazing. It’s grown so much and is an absolutely wonderful company to work for. The professionalism, training, and opportunities we have are fantastic. Not to mention the ethics, ethos, and family spirit at the heart of the business – that’s very special. I think people recognise that as a key reason of why long-serving colleagues like me are still working here!