Employees from across all four Glasswells stores and its warehouses, alongside retired employees and members of the Glasswell family, gathered together on Saturday 18 July 2026 to celebrate the company’s 80th anniversary at a special gala hosted at the Glasswells Home Department Store on Newmarket Road.
The evening marked eight decades since Jerry and Ethel Glasswell opened their first 500 sq. ft. shop in Brentgovel Street in 1946. From those modest beginnings, the family business has grown into one of Suffolk’s best-known home furnishing retailers.
The special anniversary gala was an opportunity to celebrate the company’s remarkable history and, most importantly, the employees who have helped shape Glasswells over the past 80 years.
The furniture showroom was transformed and 250 guests enjoyed an evening of delicious food provided by Roffs Caterers, live music from Aston Band, alongside entertainment from magician Paul Martin.
The evening also provided an opportunity to recognise and reward employees for their hard work, dedication and long service to Glasswells.
A special Supernova Award was presented to Brian Bugg, Furniture Manager at the Bury St Edmunds store, in recognition of his exceptional contribution, hard work and dedication to Glasswells. Brian first joined the company after leaving school and has continued to make an outstanding contribution throughout his 43-year long career.
Three employees, Rachel Phillips, Ady Byford and Rick Hale, were awarded for 30 years of service, while Debbie Cram, Charmaine Smith and Mark Bartlett were also awarded for 20 years with the company.
Speaking during the celebrations, Paul Glasswell Managing Director said: “Tonight is a celebration of four score years and an opportunity to say thanks to you, our staff. We have been fortunate to have some really great workers over the 80 years. People with energy, inspiration, leadership and good sense, people who cared, people who we all admired because to them second best was not good enough and tomorrow was too late.”
Founded in 1946, Glasswells has grown from its original town centre shop to operate four stores and multiple warehouses, offering furniture, carpets, flooring, beds, mattresses, curtains, blinds, home accessories and more. The company’s 80th anniversary celebrations continue throughout 2026.
