NCC celebrates 40 years of service from caravan sales legend George Harris

The NCC has celebrated the career of George Harris, presenting the Salop Leisure sales specialist with a 40 Years’ Service Recognition Award for his contribution to the leisure vehicle industry.

George, who has been part of the sales team at Salop Leisure since 2007, received the certificate in recognition of a career spanning four decades. The award recognises his dedication, expertise and leadership, stating that his career has "left a lasting legacy through his influence, integrity and commitment to excellence" while reflecting the standards and values that continue to strengthen the industry.

The certificate now has pride of place on the wall of George’s office at Salop Leisure, where he continues to help customers choose touring caravans and motorhomes.

A passion for caravans from an early age

George's passion for caravans began long before he entered the industry. He said, “It all started with my parents; they had little money but each year rented an old static in Prestatyn. It was a treat I so looked forward to. Simply being in the caravan excited me. I guess my interest in caravans grew from there and I became obsessed!”

His parents bought him a small 1950s Penguin caravan at the age of 14. “It was hand-painted both inside and out, but for me it was heaven.” Two years later, after leaving school, he secured his first job at a caravan dealership, initially working in the shop before progressing into sales.

A career built on knowledge and customer relationships

His career has since included management roles and award-winning sales success with leading manufacturers, before joining Salop Leisure nearly 20 years ago. Throughout that time, many customers have remained loyal, following him from dealership to dealership and returning for advice when buying their next leisure vehicle.

Over his career, George has won Salesperson of the Year in 1988 from ABI Caravans, Salesperson of the Year in 1996 from Swift Caravans, and the Sales Recognition trophy from Swift in the 2019 Customer Service Recognition Awards.

Still passionate about caravanning

Alongside his work, George has remained an enthusiastic caravanner himself and still enjoys touring today.

George said: “It’s wonderful to work in this industry. I would be lost without it because selling caravans is all I've ever wanted to do – I remember telling teachers that at school! I feel very fortunate to have spent 40 years doing something I love.

“I was genuinely surprised to receive the certificate, and it's something I'm immensely proud of."

For George, looking after customers properly has always been at the heart of his approach. “Once someone places an order, you treat it like it's your own, keep in touch throughout the process and continue to support them long afterwards,” he said.

He also believes caravanning offers something uniquely appealing. “A caravan gives you a wonderful sense of adventure, allowing you to discover places you've never been before while always having the comfort of your own home with you.”

Mark Bebb, Joint Managing Director at Salop Leisure, said George’s recognition was thoroughly deserved.

“George is the Godfather of the touring sales world! Despite being very modest about his achievements, he is one of the most respected people in our industry, and this recognition is richly deserved. His knowledge is exceptional, his commitment to customers is second to none, and the relationships he has built over four decades speak for themselves.”

“We're incredibly grateful for the outstanding service he has given Salop Leisure over the past 19 years. George has helped thousands of customers begin their touring adventures and has been a fantastic mentor to colleagues, generously sharing his knowledge and experience. We are proud to have him as part of the Salop Leisure family and congratulate him on this wonderful achievement.”

Not ready to retire just yet

At 63, George admits that retirement might be expected to be on the horizon – but he isn’t quite ready to walk away.

He said: “Now at the age of 63, I feel I ought to retire, but I don’t want to let go!”