A familar face at Charles Wilson Carpets, Hitchin

A Familiar FacePublished 20/02/2016

Customers of Charles Wilson Carpets will see a familiar Hitchin face when they next visit the Hermitage Road store – although in a completely different setting!

Stuart Alder is well known around Hitchin, having grown up locally and worked as a pub and restaurant manager in Hitchin for many years. Now, Stuart is enjoying a new role – working with the independent carpet and flooring store.

By coincidence, Stuart’s family moved to Hitchin in 1972 – the year that Charles Wilson Carpets opened its doors. Whilst managing a restaurant seems very different to measuring and estimating for new flooring, Stuart feels that the two roles have a lot in common.

“Both jobs are customer-facing, which I really enjoy. It’s surprising how many customers come into the store and say: “Oh – It’s you!” Having been living and working locally for so long, I seem to know most people!” he says.

“Charles Wilson Carpets are known for their award-winning customer service. The fact that they are so customer orientated is one of the reasons that I wanted to work with them.”

Another bonus for Stuart? More sociable hours! “We have one late night opening – on a Thursday – and we only work on Saturdays over the weekend. That’s big difference compared to the unsociable hours needed in the hospitality industry. I’m enjoying spending more time with my family. Plus, my daily commute to work is a five minute walk.”

He adds: “At the moment I’m getting to know the flooring trade – from working in the shop to measuring, estimating and helping with deliveries and fitting. I’m loving every part of it!”

Helen Wilson, manager at Charles Wilson Carpets is delighted that Stuart has joined the team. “Stuart is a real asset to our company. He enjoys working with customers and shares our high standards of customer service. He’s fitted into the team very well. It’s like he’s always been here!”