6 February 2014, 09:00 - 13:00
Ringtons, Algernon Road, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 2YN
Family business, manufacturing, franchise model, international trade, direct delivery, wholesale and retail, brand, social media pioneers…. there’s plenty to discuss over a cup of tea (or coffee) at iconic North East company Ringtons.
This on site visit will take members on an historical journey with Nigel Smith, great-grandson of the founder Samuel Smith, who joined the business in 1972 as a trainee buyer.
Guests will learn how Ringtons has adapted and expanded over more than a century yet retained a reputation built on quality and service.
The business prides itself on the uniquely close relationships its van salespeople have with their 280,000 customers, many of whom have been loyal to the business for decades, while wholesale customers include Marks & Spencer who have bought from Ringtons for nearly 40 years.
The company has 24 sales offices across the UK and a custom-built factory in North Tyneside, which members will visit during the morning.
This on-site is a unique opportunity to hear the Ringtons story at first hand and, of course, to taste some tea and have a lesson in how to make the perfect cuppa.
