Member Article

Haribo Celebrates 345 Years of Long Service from Colleagues

Celebrations were underway at HARIBO recently, as the UK’s leading confectionery manufacturer marked a series of 12 long-service milestones, including employees who have been with the business for 25 or 40 years.

Acknowledging 345 years of combined service, employees enjoyed a special celebratory lunch in recognition of the contribution that they had made throughout their time with the business.

Jackie Collins, Technical Assistant, has worked for the company for 40 years, comments: “It’s a special moment to celebrate 40 years with two other colleagues and to see so many reaching their 25th year with the company.

“We’ve all had a great lunch and have spent our time looking back and reminiscing. It’s hard to believe, but when I started my career treats were made by hand, including Pontefract Cakes!”

Speaking of her proudest achievement during her time at HARIBO, Jackie adds: “Many years ago, I was told that I would never work due to my disability. I’m extremely proud to have proved those people wrong, having now worked in a job that I love for 40 years.”

With manufacturing facilities in Pontefract and Castleford, HARIBO has become a leading employer within the local area. As a result, the business often employs more than one generation of the same family.

Just one example is Colin Westwood, who has worked at the organisation for 25 years. He comments:

“What I love most about HARIBO is the people. They are not just colleagues at work they are friends.

“My favourite memory is meeting my best mate here, although he became more like my brother. Since then, my son has also started working for the business as an engineer. It’s a great solid unit with a real family atmosphere.”

Also among those to reach 25 years is Steve Noble, National Accounts Manager for the business. He comments:

“I couldn’t be prouder of the journey that the business has been on during my 25 years. Knowing that I’ve been a part of that is incredible. I was one of three team members that helped to launch Starmix, which has since gone on to become one of our most iconic treats. That is definitely one of my many career highlights!”

Keeping it in the family, Steve’s son, Ed Noble has also joined the team at HARIBO as National Accounts Executive.

Recognising the importance that its people have had in shaping the brand’s success, Jon Hughes, Managing Director of HARIBO UK and Ireland, comments:

“At the heart of HARIBO is its team. Each and every member of our team contributes to our story in their own way. To have people who have been with us for so many years really is an achievement. We’re extremely thankful to all those who have helped HARIBO on its journey to becoming the much-loved brand that it is today.”

A family-owned business, HARIBO has been making much-loved sweets for almost 100-years. With more than 700 team members across two manufacturing facilities in West Yorkshire, including a state-of-the-art, purpose-built factory in Castleford, HARIBO is an advocate of best in class manufacturing and skills development.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Katie Coxall .