My Wrights Journey: Tracy Harper

As Wrights celebrates its 100th year, we’re shining a spotlight on the people who have helped shape the business into what it is today. Behind every product is a team dedicated to upholding the quality, craftsmanship and values that have defined Wrights for a century, while continually finding new ways to innovate and meet changing customer demands.

One of those colleagues is Tracy Harper, Store Manager at the Wrights Hanley branch. Having spent more than two decades with Wrights, Tracy has witnessed first-hand how the business has grown and adapted while staying true to the values that have kept customers coming back for generations. Here, she reflects on her Wrights journey and the pride she feels in being part of the company’s centenary celebrations.

Tell us about your role at Wrights?

I’m the Store Manager at the Wrights Hanley store, and no two days are ever the same. A big part of my role is making sure the store runs smoothly, from overseeing the baking of our pastries and preparation of sandwiches, to ensuring we maintain high standards of quality, food safety and customer service.

I also lead and support the team, helping with training and development and making sure everyone has the tools they need to do their job well. One part of the role I particularly enjoy is visual merchandising, keeping our counters looking fresh and inviting for customers.

How long have you been at Wrights?

I have worked at Wrights for over 24 years! I started in the Fenton branch on a 16-hour contract as a Shop Assistant. Through hard work and dedication, I progressed to Assistant Manager and eventually became Store Manager. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in retail, customer service, team leadership, and store operations, and I am proud to have grown my career with the company.

What keeps you coming back to work each day?

I still enjoy my job just as much now as when I first started. I like being part of a great team, seeing our regular customers, it really is a community.

One of the best parts is meeting and working with so many different people. I’ve been lucky to learn from some fantastic managers, especially my first manager, Carole Nicklin, who helped train and guide me when I first started. Now, after 24 years with the company, it’s really rewarding to be able to pass on my experience and help train and support new people joining Wrights.

Is there a product you feel especially proud of?

Seeing the response to our new Centenary products, the Centenary Chicken, Leek & Bacon Pie and the Centenary Caramel Custard Slice, has been particularly exciting. It’s been great to hear such positive feedback from customers. Being part of the company during its 100th year and seeing these special products launched has made me especially proud.

What does it mean to you to be part of a company celebrating 100 years?

I’m very honoured to be part of a company that has reached such an incredible milestone, it’s a real achievement and it’s a privilege to have played a part in that journey.

If you could sum up your time at Wrights in a few words, what would it be?

My time at Wrights has been enjoyable, rewarding and full of great memories.

Want to learn more about the people behind Wrights? Read Michelle Edmunds’ story here.