Balham Opening

Three veterans from the original staff, who have been at the Balham store, almost from day one, have seen the names above the doors, come and go, but regard the switch to Waitrose, almost as early birthday presents.
Marion, on Fresh Foods, joined 59 days after the opening. After working at Presto in South Norwood, she moved to Balham 21 years ago, starting in the bread and cakes department and since then, working in all departments except on the tills. Margaret (59 in September) has also been with the Branch from the start as Presto, while Anne (50 next month) served 27 years with Safeway’s starting at Tooting Bec and then moving to Balham 16 years ago to work as a cashier.

All three joined the latest Waitrose BM, Ian, for a celebration glass of champagne to mark their own birthdays and the re-birth of the store. ‘WE are really looking forward to the new look and the future.’ summed up Marion on behalf of the three veteran new Partners.

Edited excerpt from Waitrose Chronicle,Vol 66 No 20, May 20th 2006.