To all members of Tomrods staff

As you may be aware I had started the process of retirement from Tomrods and was currently working 3 days per week with the plan of gradually reducing the days per week that I was working over the next 6/12 months. The plan was to seamlessly pass over the running of the company to the directors, namely Andrew Shakespeare (Operations) Melinda Bruce (Admin, HR, Health and Safety) and Neil Latcham (Sales). In addition Jacek Przybyl was to become the purchasing director. Due to unforeseen circumstances this plan is being brought forward as I have recently been diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma which will require intensive treatment. The treatment we hope will ensure that I have many more years of active life ahead of me.

With immediate effect Julie and I will be handing over the running of the company to Andrew, Mel, Neil and Jacek and I will be taking on the role of chairman and Julie will remain a director. Both Julie and I will still be attending board meetings and will still be available to advise or help at any time if needed. At times like this many rumours will circulate but we have total confidence in the directors and the existing staff to successfully carry on running the company and we have no intention of selling out to a third party. Tomrods financially is exceptionally strong and is one of the best steel service providers in the UK (if not the best) and we intend that it remains so and we will also continue to invest in the future. The refurbishment of the offices will take place and we have plans to invest in new vehicles, computer systems as well as extend the outside storage facilities. I am so proud of what has been achieved over the last 45 years, but this has only happened because of the total commitment of present and past members of staff, both Julie and I are leaving the company under experienced management and look forward to seeing the company continue to grow from strength to strength, albeit from the side lines.

This notification confirms Jacek's appointment as a director and we know that you will give him your total support in his new role. Julie and I have difficult times ahead but it will give us much satisfaction and comfort knowing that we leave the company in safe hands and that with everyone's help and commitment the company will continue to flourish over the coming years.

If you have any concerns or questions about this please send either Julie or myself an email, catch us when in the office or ask one of the other directors.

Thank you all for your support in the past and in the future.

All the very best
John Thompson Managing Director