After 37 years as manager of HBH Woolacotts’ Launceston branch, Mark Allin has decided to retire in April 2019. As a result of this, Nick Hardie and Launceston local Matt Ford have been promoted to manager and assistant manager respectively. Mark announced his retirement in February which has allowed a six week handover period to ensure as smooth a transition as possible given the contacts and reputation Mark has built up over the years within Launceston and the surrounding area.

Nick and Matt bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role; Nick has been in the industry for nearly 20 years having previously worked in both the Brighton and Exeter Sony Centre before joining HBH Woolacotts’ team in Launceston in 2013.

Matt joined HBH Woolacotts in 2012 and with his infectious personality and personal interest in electricals has established himself as an integral part of the team in Launceston.

In light of the changes and his impending retirement Mark said: “Thirty-seven years is a long time and it’s with a heavy heart that I leave HBH Woolacotts, however, I felt the time was right and I’m now looking forward to the next chapter in my life. I’d like to thank Martin and Ted for giving me the opportunity to manage the store at only 21 years old and I’m proud of the business we have built both in Launceston and across the whole region.

“I’d also like to say thank you to all my customers that have supported me over the years, hopefully I’ll to get to thank you every one of you personally before I leave.”

Nick added: “I’ve certainly got big shoes to fill but I’ve now worked in Launceston with Mark for over five years so I understand the store and I’m sure it will be a straightforward transition for all of our customers and I’m confident that we will continue to offer the very best service.

There’s definitely not going to be any sweeping changes but I’ve got a few ideas of what I’d like to do to improve and ultimately I’d like to put my own stamp on the store.”

Managing director Martin Hemmerle gave his opinions on the changes. He said: “I’ve worked with Mark for the majority of my career within the business and he’s been both a fantastic manager for us and a personal friend. Mark deserves great credit for the work he’s done in Launceston and he’s been one of the major reasons that we have been able to build and maintain a successful business in Launceston in what has, at times, been extremely difficult circumstances. I’d also like to congratulate Nick and Matt on their promotion and Im confident in their ability to do the job, we’re fortunate to have a great team of staff that are always looking to improve where there are opportunities.”