Eleven dedicated colleagues from Asda Boston have been recognised for their outstanding commitment to serving the local community, after achieving a combined 300 years of service with the supermarket.
The long-serving employees were among those honoured at Asda’s regional Big Asda Celebration event, held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Doncaster on Tuesday, 14 July. The annual awards event brings together colleagues from stores across the region who have reached significant service milestones, recognising those who have dedicated 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and even 50 years to the business.
For the Boston team, it was an opportunity to celebrate not only individual achievements but also the strong community connections that have been built over decades of service.
The day began with a special breakfast at the store on Lister Way, where colleagues gathered with colleagues and managers before travelling to Doncaster for the celebrations. During the event, award recipients enjoyed a two-course lunch and took part in a presentation ceremony, where they received certificates, commemorative pin badges and gift bags in recognition of their loyalty and commitment.
As part of the long-service awards programme, colleagues also received additional benefits, including an extra week of paid holiday leave. Long-serving employees will retain their Asda colleague discount card for life, while those celebrating 25 years of service received £100 and colleagues reaching 35 years were awarded £150.
Chris Fielding, General Store Manager at Asda Boston, praised the award winners for the contribution they have made both to the store and to the wider community.
He said: “The Big Asda Celebration is our opportunity to recognise and thank colleagues whose dedication has helped make our store such an important part of the community for so many years.
“Together, these colleagues have completed an incredible 300 years of service. That level of commitment is truly remarkable and reflects the hard work, professionalism and care they bring to their roles every day. They have supported generations of customers and helped create the welcoming environment our shoppers have come to know and appreciate.
“We are extremely proud of everything they have achieved and delighted to see them recognised at this special event.”
Representing Asda Boston among those celebrating 35 years of service was Jayne Clark. Colleagues marking 30 years with the company this year were Alison Bloom, Denise Humphries and Ian Hislop.
The remaining members of the Boston team invited to the event were Shane Parker, Adam Jackson, Andrew Simpson, Tina Brown, Phil Clarke, Darren Lenton and Mandy Revell, each of whom has completed 25 years of service.
Among the attendees was Operations Manager, Shane Parker, who reflected on his quarter-century with the supermarket and the relationships he has built over the years.
“When I first joined Asda 25 years ago, I never imagined I would one day be recognised as one of the store’s longest-serving colleagues,” he said.
“A lot has changed during that time, but what has remained constant is the fantastic team spirit and support from the people around me. The store has always felt like a family, and I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some incredible colleagues who have become lifelong friends.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of the role has been getting to know our customers. Over the years, I’ve watched families grow, seen children become parents themselves, and continued to welcome many of those same people through our doors. That sense of connection is something really special.”
Mr Parker added that reaching the 25-year milestone had given him an opportunity to reflect on a career filled with memorable experiences.
“I’m incredibly proud to have reached this milestone. It has been much more than a job; it has been a significant part of my life,” he said.
“Asda has always encouraged colleagues to develop, learn new skills and progress into different roles, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given throughout my career. The support I’ve received from managers and colleagues has been invaluable.
“Being recognised at the regional celebration was a wonderful experience and a chance to look back on so many great memories. I feel lucky to have been part of the Asda family for the past 25 years and look forward to continuing to serve our customers and community in the years ahead.”
The awards highlight the important role long-serving colleagues play in maintaining the strong community focus that many local shoppers value. Collectively, the Boston recipients have spent decades helping customers, supporting fellow colleagues and contributing to the success of one of the town’s busiest supermarkets.
Their 300 years of combined service stands as a testament to their loyalty, dedication and commitment to serving the people of Boston, making the Big Asda Celebration a fitting tribute to an extraordinary group of colleagues.
