Women paving the way in the Builders’ Merchant Industry
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, we took the opportunity to speak to women within the industry and today we turn our attention to an exceptional person whose dedication and adaptability has defined her 50-year long career. Jackie Reid has spent five decades working at JT Atkinson, an independent, family-run merchant, where she started as a 16-year-old office junior and worked her way through various roles. Her journey has seen significant changes within the business and the evolution of the industry since 1975 when she entered the world of work.
Starting Out in a Different Era
Jackie recalls her first day at JT Atkinson with a mixture of nostalgia and amusement. “I was a nervous wreck,” she admits. “There was no work experience back then—you left school and were straight into work.” As an office junior, one of her first tasks was sorting cheques into numerical order, despite never having seen a cheque before. “I admit I did cry after that first day as it was overwhelming. But I got on the bus to work the next day, and the day after that and have never looked back since.”
The workplace was vastly different in 1975. “Everything was done manually—typewriters, carbon copies, handwritten invoices. There were no computers. If there was a power cut, we just got out the candles and carried on working!”
Job Opportunities
Jackie’s willingness to learn soon saw her move from office junior to receptionist and then to showroom assistant. “Because I was based in the showroom, I started helping customers, and before long, I became showroom manager.” The showroom, which displayed kitchens and bathrooms, became her favourite role. “I loved working with customers, helping them design their dream spaces. It was a very rewarding job.”
Her career also saw her transition into personal assistant roles and property management as the company grew and evolved. Working alongside four different generations of the Atkinson family, she witnessed the company expand its network of branches and embrace new technologies. “When I started, we used graph paper to design bathroom layouts. Now, it’s all done digitally. The change has been incredible.”
Breaking Barriers in the Industry
The industry has traditionally been male-dominated, and Jackie was often one of the only women in meetings. “In the early days, most of the office staff were women, but a lot of management positions were held by men.”
Despite the challenges, she was never intimidated. “It’s a lovely industry to be in. I never had any issues because we always had a great culture with family values and I think because I’d been at the company so long, people respected my knowledge.”
She has seen positive change over the years, with many more women taking on leadership roles. “It’s fantastic to see so many female branch managers and department managers now. The industry is evolving, and it’s for the better.”
Memorable Moments
Over 50 years, Jackie has witnessed significant industry changes. “Technology has completely transformed how we work. In the past, everything was on paper—we used duplicators and typewriters. Now, everything is digital. The pace is faster, but it also brings new challenges.”
One of her most memorable moments was when the company celebrated its 125th anniversary. “It was a big event, with customers, suppliers, and staff coming together. That was special.” She also recalls many funny incidents, including one where a colleague got stuck climbing out of a window after she accidentally locked him in the office. “His belt got caught, and he was left dangling there for a while!”
Retirement and Looking Ahead
Now, as she approaches retirement, Jackie reflects on what she will miss most. “The people. Absolutely the people. I’ve worked with some amazing colleagues and customers who have become friends. I won’t miss the commute, but I will miss the daily interactions. I might have shed some tears on my first day back in 1975, but I will certainly shed a few on my last day before I retire.”
Her advice for young women entering the industry? “Work hard and be adaptable. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. This industry is full of opportunities.”
Jackie’s legacy at JT Atkinson is undeniable. Her dedication and knowledge will leave a lasting impact. As she prepares for a well-earned retirement, she leaves behind a workplace that has been shaped, in part, by her hard work and commitment.
On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate all the women, like Jackie who have helped pave the way in our ever-evolving industry. Cheers to a well-earned retirement and a remarkable career!
