After celebrating 18 years of being in business last month, Simon Churly owner of Stationery Solutions in Braintree, Essex shares his stationery journey with us.
How did you get involved in the stationery industry?
In a very strange way. I had just become unemployed and my mother owned a couple of florist shops in the town. She wanted to vacate one of the shops and got talking to a man above the other shop who thought he might like to add retail stationery to his business. And so, for a short time there was a situation of a shop that was two-thirds florist and one third stationery, with me at the helm. Over time the amount of stationery started to increase and the amount of flowers, plants etc. started to decrease. Eventually the man, who was to become my boss, took on the lease of the shop. And the rest is history.
What is the best part of being involved in the sector?
The people. I’ve met so many lovely and interesting customers over the years, each with their own life story. From those who are having a tough time in life and just need someone to talk to, to those who are always happy and leave you in a positive mood for the next few days. Also, all the other stationers I’ve been able to meet over the years. Sometimes they’ve just been there to help me keep my sanity.
What is your favourite industry memory?
Selling a certain paper to a well-to-do lady. She told me that not even Harrods had been able to supply it for her. That’s one up for the small independent retailers!
What does 2024 hold for you?
Probably much the same as previous years but just with different targets. I like to set my own challenges on that front. Also, maybe a holiday. It’s so long since I’ve had one.
Three interesting facts about me…
- I volunteer as a member of Lions Club International, at my own club in Braintree. Originally I joined as a Leo (junior part) and then became a Lion when I was 30. I have clocked up 35 years all in. I’ve made lots of friends around the world, and within my own club we raise money via things such as a Santa Sleigh, and a Real Ale Festival.
- I’ve done ten-pin bowling for quite a few years and have even bowled against one of the best in the world as he used to bowl in my league. All I can say is thank goodness for the handicapping system.
- Years ago I seemed to have an incredible knack of winning raffles. I’ve won a weekend break at a hotel (which I gave to my parents), a stereo system, and at one point had won enough alcohol to fill the floor of a large double wardrobe. Unfortunately I don’t seem to be quite so lucky these days.
Favourite stationery products…
Sold ones. Ha! Ha! Ha!
