26 Oct 2007

Olympic medallist Kriss Akabusi MBE dropped in this week to meet more than 100 members of the MacLellan Retail Services team, the complete facilities management provider to Silverburn – Glasgow’s next generation of retail destination.

The surprise appearance of the 400m World, European and Commonwealth gold medallist came during a ‘Welcome Day’ held by MacLellan, part of Interserve, at the Teacher Building on Thursday 18th October.  The day was the final part of the team’s preparation for Silverburn’s launch, helping them to reflect on the work they’ve done so far and the important role they have to play in what is still yet to come. Over the past few weeks they have been asked to do some very peculiar jobs whilst preparing for the launch, but from next week their roles will be critical to the success of Silverburn.

As Silverburn’s facilities management partner, MacLellan is responsible for a host of services both front and back of house, helping to create the perfect environment for the millions of shoppers that will visit Silverburn each year.

However it was Kriss Akabusi that truly inspired and energised the day.  He helped every member of staff really prepare themselves to deliver a winning performance. Kriss said, “It is such a great honour to be involved in the beginning of something new. There is an obvious dynamic and spirit within the team which should transfer to excellent customer service. I was impressed by the enthusiasm these individuals showed in being a part of Silverburn.”

The appearance by Kriss was welcomed by staff too. Paul Evans, Divisional Director, MacLellan Retail Services said: “It was such an energetic and inspiring event that has given the team a fantastic boost.  Everyone has been working so hard during these last few weeks. The team has really pulled together, going out of their way to make sure we get everything done.  We want to help everyone reach their full potential, and the presentation by Kriss was the perfect way to demonstrate how it can be done, and the success which can be achieved, if we work as a team.”