By Dominic Ryan
According to Sir Tom Hunter, family businesses are vital to the future health of the Scottish economy and a recent guest on the Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey proved to be a perfect example of family values in action.
For Jim McGonigle, owner of The Top Drawer, Scotland’s leading furniture and home décor outfit, business really is a family affair.
He told the show: “Seven years ago me and my wife decided we’d like a long-term business and it was to be for the family.
“My daughter works in the business. My son works in the business. My nephew works in the business. My two sister-in-laws work in the business.
“One of our employees we’ve known and worked with for 20-odd years.
“A lot of people say they have a family business – in our case we really do have a family business.”
Jim believes it’s the family traits – in particular a knowledge of fashion – that have led to success: “The twist is always to have the right product at the right time – we make sure we have the latest styles.
“A big part of that is my daughter’s influence.
“She’s always on-trend and knows where the best products are coming from.”
Despite restrictions imposed by the Covid lockdown, the family spirit – strengthened weekly around the Sunday dinner table – boosted business.
The McGonigle clan used their time to phone every customer and assure them the company was working behind the scenes for them.
Every supplier was also contacted, while video calls helped customers with furniture choices
Acknowledging the value of family to the Top Drawer business, Sir Tom said: “Every problem that comes your way you just solve it.
“That’s what great entrepreneurs do.
“But what’s vital is the communication between your customers, your suppliers, and your workforce – your family – and the fact you can get around the Sunday dinner table and thrash it out.
“It’s brilliant.”
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