Andover business KJM Group celebrating 40th anniversary

For KJM Group, based at Mylen Business Centre in Andover, what began as a specialist window manufacturing venture in the 1980s has evolved into a wide portfolio of home improvement products today.

The company's name, KJM, is derived from the initials of its three founding directors, Ken Hammant, John Creasey, and Mick Burrell.

Since its inception, the company has come a long way while retaining its strong ties to its roots.

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KJM Group's first team of staff (Image: Contributed)

The business was originally established at the West Portway Industrial Estate, where it continues to maintain a unit.

Today, KJM Group is under the able leadership of managing director Mark Pearce, whose contributions have played a pivotal role in the company's remarkable journey over the past four decades.

Mr Pearce's association with KJM dates back to 1983 when he embarked on this remarkable career.

He vividly described his early days at KJM, mentioning how he joined the company as a young worker, leaving behind his college education and embracing the world of glazing.

A KJM van outside its manufacturing plant in the 1980s (Image: Contributed)

He reminisced about his initial job, labouring outdoors with builders and fitters, facing the chilly winter elements.

Mr Pearce said: “We used to manufacture windows back then, but we don’t do it anymore. I did a little bit outside to start with and I was making windows for probably 10 years.”

His progression within KJM saw him become the production supervisor and then the manager.

But Mr Pearce said his hands still bear the scars of those early days in the factory.

“We stopped manufacturing in 1996, so I went full time in sales from then onwards."

KJM Group staff in the years gone by (Image: Contributed)

In the field of sales, Mr Pearce quickly rose to prominence, demonstrating a natural talent and an unwavering commitment to customer service.

The 1990s proved to be a turning point for KJM, as the company's product portfolio expanded.

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The company celebrated its 40th anniversary with an event in July, attended by co-founders John Creasey and Mick Burrell.

"Unfortunately, Ken is dead. But we were happy to have John and Mick attend the celebrations," Mr Pearce said.

The celebration also featured a special guest: the daughter of KJM's very first customer.

Current and former employees alike joined in the festivities.