In late October, our Sales and Design Consultant Luke and Technical Surveyor Mark embarked on a fast-paced, three-day trip to Northern mainland Greece. They were invited for an exclusive factory tour to experience the craftsmanship behind the amazing Spitfire doors we proudly sell.
From travel challenges to memorable factory insights, here’s a peek at their experiences:
- Key Takeaways: What did you gain most from the trip? Was there a specific insight or lesson about the manufacturing process or factory that stood out to you?
- Mark: “The factory was larger than I expected, and I was amazed at the variety of designs and unique finishes they offer. Seeing their processes was really eye-opening.”
- Luke: “The trip provided invaluable insight into Spitfire door manufacturing, highlighting unique aspects of the process that make these doors stand out in quality and design.”
- Interesting Encounters: Did you meet any interesting people during your time away?
- Mark: “There was a great group on the trip, including some fascinating company owners and, of course, a few ‘muggles’ like us! Azhar Saddique stood out with his broad experience in different areas.”
- Luke: “Yes! I met Azhar, who was once on The Apprentice. I think we’re now BFFs.”
- Travel Adventures: What was the worst part of traveling 1,800 miles by car, plane, and minibus? Any funny travel stories along the way?
- Mark: “Those 4am starts were brutal, and the long minibus ride was exhausting, though the scenery was nice! Funniest moment? Watching Heffin try to skip the airport queue without fast-track and then haggling over €5 with a taxi driver!”
- Luke: “The company, LOL.”
- Amusing Moments: Were there any amusing moments that made you giggle during the trip?
- Mark: “Evenings at the hotel bar had a lot of laughs. One night, the car discussion turned into a bragging session about personal plates. Meanwhile, my Berlingo van stayed humble!”
- Luke: “Too many to mention. Loved it!”
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- Work vs. Play: How did you balance work and leisure on this trip? Did you get a chance to explore any tourist spots, or was it all about the doors?
- Mark: “Not much time to explore—our hotel was pretty remote, and we had a packed schedule. But it was a great experience, and we got to enjoy some authentic Greek food!”
- Luke: “While it was mostly focused on eating and drinking, there was a short opportunity to explore the factory, balancing leisure with a bit of work 😉.”
- Leaving Cornwall: What did you learn about yourself on your whirlwind trip?
- Mark: “I can still handle a 4am start and function on little sleep, but I learned I can’t keep up with everyone on the drinking side!”
- Luke: “A >3-hour transfer from the airport to the hotel is not justifiable!”
- Punny Business: Do you have any relevant door, Spitfire, or Greek puns to share?
- Mark: “None that come to mind—sorry! I’ll try feta next time.”
- Luke: “Not really, but I’d like to think the door is open for another trip next year!”
