Business View Caribbean - Jan 2024

20 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 11, ISSUE 1 essential tools and hardware in the 1970s to an affiliation with Cotter & Company (now True Value) in 1979, signifying its expansion beyond traditional lumber and hardware. The 1990s and 2000s were pivotal in Gorham’s history, denoted by significant infrastructural developments, including the construction of a new building and the merger of two stores into a 40,000 sq. ft mega store. Embracing sustainability, Gorham’s invested in a solar array in 2010, showcasing its commitment to environmental responsibility. More recently, in 2020 and 2021, Gorham’s undertook further refurbishments, including a new parking lot and an expanded Lumber Shed. These improvements catered to a growing product line and enhanced customer convenience and operational efficiency. COMPANY SET-UP The cornerstone of Gorham’s success lies in its dedicated workforce, embodying a culture of commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. This ethos has not only solidified Gorham’s stature as a premier hardware store in Bermuda but has also woven a narrative of business resilience and innovation spanning over 80 years. However, the retail sector often grapples with challenges in fostering a deep sense of purpose and pride among its employees. Commonly perceived as transient or stop-gap employment, retail jobs are frequently overlooked in terms of career potential and longevity. Under CEO Andrew Mackay’s visionary leadership, Gorham’s is actively redefining this industry narrative. Recognizing retail as a professional career path, Gorham’s is dedicated to transforming its workforce’s perspective on