Vitax has announced one of its longest serving area sales managers will  retire from his role in July. Julian Goodhand, who has been with the company for 37 years, will officially retire from the firm on 31 July.

Mr Goodhand's early career started at WH Smith before undertaking a variety of sales roles including the sale of tyres right through to confectionery. Joining Vitax in 1982, Vitax said he has built up an enviable reputation with both colleagues and customers across Avon, Wilts, Hants and Dorset due to his product and industry knowledge and is well-known and respected by his peers.

“When I joined Vitax I knew nothing about gardening and the company was still relatively small with a core of well-known brands such as Nippon and SBK. Thankfully over the past 30 years my knowledge has improved and Vitax has grown year-on-year, and I am very proud to have been part of that growth,” said Julian Goodhand, South West area sales manager at Vitax.

“During my time with the company I have made many friends, who I will continue to stay in touch with, but I am looking forward to a slower pace of life.

“The only thing I currently have planned is a holiday to India with my family and then who knows!” added Julian.

As part of a special thank you to Mr Goodhand and his wife Susan, Vitax have treated the couple to afternoon tea at Rubens Hotel, a visit to the Chelsea Flower Show and attendance at the Greenfingers Charity Garden party.

“Julian is a key part of Vitax and has been integral to our success in the South West for many years. Whilst we will miss his humour and candour he brings, we are delighted he will now have the time to explore his love of travel and spend time with his family,” said Paul Gooding, Vitax’s chairman.

“We wish him a long, happy and healthy retirement and thank him for all his support.”