Ercol employees notch up a century between them

Photograph shows Mario Arucci, left, Chairman Edward Tadros, centre, and Gerald Harmsworth, right

Two of Ercol’s longest serving members of staff celebrated 50 years of working with the company in August. The renowned English furniture company will mark this significant work anniversary with a presentation to Mario Arucci and Gerald Harmsworth.

Gerald and Mario both joined Ercol on 9 August 1965 – the same month that Singapore became an independent island state and the Beatles’ song “Help” was at number one.

Gerald joined as a Time and Bonus Clerk and, after a brief stint on the production side, returned to the office where he started and is now the Payroll Manager.

Mario Arucci is Team Leader of Quality Control and has been a valued member of the Quality Control, Polishing and Packing department throughout his service.

Both men have seen significant changes at Ercol over their 50 years with the company, such as the move from the original factory in High Wycombe to the new, purpose built factory in Princes Risborough and the way systems have been streamlined over the years. They both remember fondly the company’s day trips to Bournemouth for all workers and their families.

Founded in 1920 by young Italian designer, Lucian Ercolani OBE, from the early 1920s through to today Ercol has worked with craftsmen, manufacturers and retailers to create and extend its furniture collection to the widest audience.

The Ercol brand has become synonymous with great design combined with functionality. The company has a strong British design heritage and today’s designs are created within its design studio in Princes Risborough in the English Chiltern Hills. Furniture is made by craftsmen in Ercol’s Buckinghamshire factory or by one of Ercol’s manufacturing partners across the globe.

Gerald says: “I think Ercol is a very special place to work because it’s a family business with some great characters.” His favourite piece of Ercol furniture is the Gina Recliner and he’s also very fond of his Windsor Table and Chairs which were given to him as a wedding gift many years ago by Lucian Ercolani.

Mario comments: “I’m so proud to work here and to be making products of such a high quality. The people here are great too.” Mario’s favourite piece is the 911 Chairmakers Chair which represents the pinnacle of Windsor chair making.

Edward Tadros, Ercol’s Chairman, said: “We are delighted to be celebrating Gerald and Mario’s wonderful 50 years of service at Ercol. Gerald was a founder member of our social club, organising many events for the company and Mario has been a vital member of the team – the last pair of eyes and hands to look at and feel our furniture before it leaves the factory.

“A very big thank you to them both for their continued loyal service.”

Neither Gerald nor Mario are ready to embrace retirement yet and look forward to continuing to work with Ercol.