The Long Service Awards ceremony was not only a celebration of years served, but a recognition of some of the people whose hard work, expertise and loyalty have helped make Shotton Mill what it is today. From those celebrating 25 years of service to colleagues marking an outstanding 40 years, each recipient has played an important role in the mill's journey and success.

What made this year's celebration particularly meaningful was Shotton Mill and the Eren family's commitment to recognising service to the site regardless of ownership. While Shotton Mill is now entering an exciting new era under Eren's ownership, the experience, dedication and commitment that employees have shown over many decades remain a vital part of the mill's story.

This approach reflects the values that continue to shape the future of the business: respect for people, appreciation of experience and recognition of the individuals who have contributed to the success of the site throughout its long history.

As part of the celebrations, colleagues reaching significant service milestones received awards in recognition of their achievements.

To mark these remarkable milestones, 40 Years' Service Award recipients received a Full 2026 Gold Sovereign Coin, while 25 Years' Service Award recipients received a Half 2026 Gold Sovereign Coin.

Awards were presented by Sabri Cimen and Dan Johnson, who took the opportunity to thank recipients for their contribution and recognise the positive impact they continue to have across the business.

The event, which was enjoyed over cake and refreshments, provided colleagues from across the business with the opportunity to come together, reflect on achievements and celebrate the people who have helped build the strong foundations on which Shotton Mill stands today. While the awards recognised decades of service, the occasion was equally about looking forward.

Shotton Mill is currently undergoing one of the most exciting transformations in its history. Significant investment, ambitious plans for growth and a shared vision for the future are creating new opportunities for the business, its customers and its people. As the mill continues its journey of transformation, there is a strong belief that future success will be built upon the knowledge, skills and commitment of its workforce.

The experience held within the teams at Shotton Mill is invaluable. Our team has developed specialist knowledge, overcome challenges and driven continuous improvement, creating a culture that combines pride in the site's heritage with enthusiasm for its future potential. As the business evolves, that blend of experience and innovation will continue to be one of Shotton Mill's greatest strengths.

The recognition of long service also reflects the ongoing commitment of the Eren family, whose investment in Shotton Mill extends far beyond assets and infrastructure.

The Eren family has demonstrated a clear commitment to supporting and developing the workforce, recognising that people are at the heart of every successful business. By valuing the contribution of employees and acknowledging the role they have played throughout the site's history, they are helping to create a culture where people feel respected, valued and excited about the future.

This shared commitment between ownership, leadership and employees is helping to build a strong platform for future success, ensuring that Shotton Mill remains a place where people can develop rewarding careers and contribute to a growing and ambitious organisation.

Sabri Cimen, CEO and Board Member said, "Today is about recognising and celebrating the people who have made Shotton Mill what it is. The combined 552 years of service represented by our award recipients is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the loyalty, dedication and professionalism that exists across our workforce.

What makes this celebration particularly special is that we are recognising service to Shotton Mill itself, regardless of ownership. Every year of commitment, every contribution and every achievement has helped build the strong foundations on which we are now creating the future of this mill.

As we continue our transformation journey, investing in new capabilities and building a world-class business, it is important that we never lose sight of the people who have brought us to where we are today. The experience, knowledge and passion within our teams are among our greatest strengths.

On behalf of the Eren family and the leadership team, I would like to thank all of our long-service award recipients for their outstanding contribution. We are proud to celebrate your achievements, grateful for your commitment, and excited to continue building the future of Shotton Mill together."

A special thank you goes to the Human Resources Team, whose hard work and attention to detail ensured the event was a memorable and fitting celebration for all involved.

Thank you also to everyone who attended and helped make the occasion so special. Most importantly, congratulations to all our award recipients. Your dedication, professionalism and loyalty have helped shape Shotton Mill's past, and your experience, talent and commitment will play an equally important role in shaping its future.

As Shotton Mill enters an exciting new chapter, we look forward to building that future together as one team - drawing strength from our proud heritage while embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.