The Relec Saga and the Departure of Our Beloved Trio
28th June 2024Share This Post
Share This Post
Once upon a time, in the year 1978, Refac Electronics was born. Like any good origin story, this one had its share of twists and turns, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead.
Fast forward to 1988, a fresh-faced Peter Lappin joined the ranks. With a sharp buzz cut reminiscent of his RAF days (sadly no picture evidence!), Peter began working alongside his father. Little did he know, this was the start of a lifelong journey.
The pivotal moment came in 1991 when the company underwent a management buyout, transforming into Relec Electronics. It was here that Relec truly found its identity, growing roots and setting the stage for the future.
Relec’s story is one of evolution and camaraderie. In 1998, the team moved from Winchester to the Omega Centre, Wareham, marking a significant step in their journey.
By 2003, Peter Lappin had taken the reins, buying the business and steering it toward new horizons. Around this time, the dynamic duo of John Stone and Jon Smith joined Peter, bringing their expertise and enthusiasm. They quickly became integral parts of the team, not only contributing their knowledge but also investing in the future of the business.
Then, in 2007, they packed up once more, making the grand move from the Omega Centre to a place fondly known as Animal House in Wareham. Despite only relocating a few doors down on the same industrial estate, it felt like a daring expedition. The name “Animal House” was kept, as the team felt it perfectly captured the lively and diverse spirit of Relec—so much so that renaming it to Relec House never crossed their minds. Today, Animal House stands as a testament to the company’s vibrant culture and its sense of belonging.
John Stone, our resident cycling enthusiast with an encyclopaedic knowledge of power supplies, led a brand refresh in 2018. But he didn’t stop there. John organised and participated in the Big Relec Bike Ride from John O’Groats to Lands’ End, raising funds for the brain tumour charity. His “obsessive cycling disorder” was evident as he pedalled across the country, leaving a trail of inspiration in his wake.
Peter, not one to be outdone, embarked on the Big Relec Desert Walk in 2019, also for the brain tumour charity. With each step in the scorching desert, he demonstrated the dedication and spirit that has always been a hallmark of Relec.
Jon Smith, our tea-and-biscuits aficionado, joined Relec in 2005. His love for tea and biscuits was only rivalled by his passion for teaching the intricacies of power supplies. Jon’s “obsessive cooking disorder” made him the unofficial chef of the office, often bringing in his latest culinary creations. Notably, his pizza oven became a beloved fixture, turning lunch breaks into gourmet experiences.
Jon’s friendly demeanour made everyone feel welcome, and his vast knowledge was a beacon for both colleagues and clients. His official title could have been “Guardian of Tea and Biscuits,” but instead, he remained our dedicated account manager.
Tea and biscuits anyone?
And then there was Jules, the rescued dog from Mauritius, who became an integral part of the Relec family. Dubbed the ‘Vice President of Barking Strategies,’ Jules brought joy to the office with his ‘obsessive chasing disorder.’
Fast forward to the year of COVID, 2020, and Peter Lappin, like many of us, embraced a new look during lockdown. As haircuts became a distant memory, his once buzz-cut hair grew into flowing locks as he decided to model himself on Brad Pitt. Board meetings turned into a mix of business strategy and haircare tips, with Peter occasionally getting mistaken for Brad during video calls— well… he wishes, sorry Peter.
2020 also marked a new chapter as Gresham Worldwide acquired Relec. This acquisition planted the seeds of retirement thoughts for our leaders.
Fast-forward to 2024, the trio of Peter, John, and Jon decided it was time to bid farewell to Relec.
As Peter sails off into the sunset on his boat, with Jules likely barking orders at seagulls, John pedals through the Scottish Highlands, blending his love for cycling and golf. Meanwhile, Jon, with a cup of tea in hand and a biscuit at the ready, probably has his pizza oven fired up, concocting his next culinary masterpiece in his holiday home.
Their departure marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter for Relec. Their legacy of knowledge, dedication, and a dash of humour will continue to inspire us. Here’s to Peter, John, and Jon – may their retirement be as rich and fulfilling as their years at Relec.
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