Conservatory Outlet Enjoys Apprenticeship Boom After £2500,000 Investment

A Wakefield fabricator of windows, door and living spaces is reaping the benefits of a £250,000 investment drive in developing its own staff.

Nearly a quarter of Conservatory Outlet’s 180-strong workforce has come through an apprenticeship and the firm is continuing this commitment by creating a further five positions in its offices and on the shopfloor.

A flagship date in the calendar, the Network Golf Day forms part of a wider programme of events and initiatives designed to foster collaboration, celebrate excellence, and reinforce the shared values of a Premium Retail Network that continues to deliver year-on-year growth.

This year’s competition took place at Wychwood Park near Crewe, where golfers battled a tough-playing course and ever-changing conditions that caused even the most experienced golfers to go rummaging through the rough. From the buffeting winds on the first tee through to the baking hot sunshine out on the back nine, the competition provided a true test of skill.

When the final ball was sunk, it was the High Wycombe-based Hazlemere that sat in first place, with the team of Tony Beale, Chris Hill, James Edwards and Jamie Lewis picking up the main team prize.

“It was fantastic to see such strong attendance at our golf day,” said Greg Kane, CEO of Conservatory Outlet.

“The level of play throughout the day was fantastic. The course and the great British conditions provided a stern test for all those involved, and Hazlemere were well-deserved winners.”

Reflecting on the achievement, Tony Beale, Director at Hazlemere, said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled. The conditions were tough, but our team maintained their focus and emerged victorious.

“Conservatory Outlet’s Network Golf Day is always brilliantly organised and remains the best event of its kind in the industry. The course was in great condition, the organisation was impeccable, and it offered a fantastic opportunity to engage in some friendly competition with our fellow Premium Retailers.

“We will be looking after the trophy over the next twelve months – and we are already looking forward to defending our title next year!”

While Hazlemere dominated the team play, individual brilliance was on display as all entrants battled over the individual skill competitions.

These individual prizes made their way ‘north of the border’, as Bryan Cameron of Invergordon’s ERG Scotland won the Nearest the Pin competition whilst Kevin Andison of Galashiels’ Mitchell Glass claimed the day’s longest drive.

Greg concluded: “Congratulations to all this year’s winners. The day was another resounding success and a testament to the strength of our Network. Attendance was up yet again, and we look forward to hosting more social events throughout the year.

“The Network Golf Day offers the perfect blend of competition and networking. No wonder why, alongside our marketing and operations conferences, it is so well supported.”