Retired Tesco staff member opens refurbished Barry store (From Barry And District News)

Retired Tesco staff member opens refurbished Barry store

9:00am Wednesday 3rd October 2012 in News By Chris Seal

A LONG-SERVING Tesco employee marked her retirement by officially reopening the 'new and improved' Barry supermarket this week.

Anita Howells, of Winchester Close, recently retired after more than 25 years service at the Port Road store.

The 70-year-old, who cut the ribbon on Monday (September 24) and was presented with a bouquet, said being invited back to re-open the store was 'the icing on the cake'.

"On the day I retired in July they asked me to come back and do this," she said.

"The redevelopment is the biggest change I have seen for staff and customers in over 25 years.

"It's been lovely working here and has become part of my life," she added.

"I came in a young girl and came out a pensioner!"

Improvements include a new hot pie cabinet and takeaway counter, new-look bakery, homeware and fruit and veg departments, as well as expanded clothing and alcohol sections.

It has taken nine weeks to complete the works, which include a change of layout, and store manager Nicola McGuinness said: "The biggest change has been produce, particularly food and clothing. We have also had new freezers and extended the grocery range.

"We invited Anita back as she is loved by all of the customers and staff," she added.

"It's great to give her recognition for all the time she has worked for the company, and shows how she did a good job."