Asda Kirkcaldy staff line aisle to applaud retiring 'retail legend' store manager

Stephen Gallagher, from Kinross, finished his last shift to the applause of colleagues who lined the aisles as a mark of respect to the much loved manager.

The 59-year-old began working at Asda after leaving school to take part in a Youth Training Scheme.

He started out stocking the milk and egg section, and rose through the ranks, filling several roles before taking up the top spot as manager at numerous stores across Scotland.

When asked about his time at Asda, Stephen said: “It has been great - it’s an amazing company to work for and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time working for them.

"I enjoy working with people, and helping them to develop to get the best out of them. The way that I look at it is that somebody gave me the opportunity to do this job so I always give other people the opportunity to develop their career also.

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"In my time in the Kirkcaldy store I’ve worked with with some wonderful and inspiring colleagues who always want to be the best for one and another and our customers – there is a great camaraderie here.

"I consider my colleagues here to be like a family and not just workplace colleagues.”

Mark Johnstone, customer trading manager, paid tribute, adding: “Stephen is a great guy, not only in retail but personally as well. He has always supported staff in the store as much as he possibly could.

"He is known as a retail legend, and has always come up with the most creative ideas for the store.

"Throughout his career he has mentored numerous people to get the best out of them – he will be sorely missed by everyone.”

Roger Burnley, Asda chief executive and president said “We are extremely grateful for the service Stephen has given Asda during the last 43 years.

"He has done a fantastic job serving our customers, as well as putting his colleagues first and sharing his great retail experience with other teams in the business. He leaves with our sincere thanks and appreciation. We wish him a long and enjoyable retirement.”

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