Terry Flood is leaving Gray & Adams after 29 years of service. We caught up with him to reflect on his time with us.

How long have you been working for Gray & Adams and what is your role? 

I have been working for Gray & Adams for 29 years. I started as commercial vehicle fitter, with engineering repairs being my bread and butter. I then moved onto assembly and quickly found myself in a role as a Foreman. At this time, my team built entire rigids from start to finish and produced about two or three a month. A feat of engineering I am proud of, but a much less efficient process than what we have now. With the progression to assembly line production I specialised in electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic system work and that is where I finished my career. 

What attracted you to the company initially? 

My friend started working as a welder and I followed. Simple as that. 

Tell us about your greatest achievements whilst working for  Gray  & Adams? 

It would have to be the multi-temperature chicken and egg carriers. They are the most complex customer request I have been a part of. We had to create systems that could provide optimum heat for either chickens or eggs. For example, eggs would be taken straight out of the hen and moved to the hatchery in these carriers. We had to maintain the perfect temperature for this journey. To add to the challenge the system also had to disperse disinfectant and carry up to 60,000 eggs. The carrier would then need to be adapted for transporting chickens. It was a complex project, and one I found incredibly satisfying.  

If you could do someone else’s job (at  Gray & Adams) for the day, whose would it be and why? 

I loved what I did. I have been in every section of the business and I honestly wouldn’t change from the role I have now.  

What is the best thing about working for  Gray & Adams? 

The firm does not let you down. They look after you. They really do. You are respected, given a safe working environment and cared for. You never feel on your own, you always feel part of team who care for you. The company look after all their staff well.  

What are your retirement plans? 

I have bought a 58ft narrow boat that needs a bit of care. Once it is brushed up and in working order the wife and I plan to start exploring canals and see where it takes us.  

What advice would you give to someone joining  Gray & Adams today? 

Listen to everything you are told. No one will try to bring you down, instead they will try to lift you up. Everyone cares for you and will lend you valuable expertise and knowledge. Listen and you’ll progress. 

Sum  Gray & Adams up in one word? 

Niche. 

Specialising in temperature-controlled vehicles Gray & Adams is on its own. It does what no one else does and does it very well. Gray & Adams have mastered a market niche.  

Across your time at the company what things have changed the most? 

Efficiency. Our processes have become so much quicker. Our assembly line gets products from start to finish as quickly as possible. Gone are the days of two or three trailers a month!  

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