Tributes are being paid to a former president of the British Hardware Federation who passed away last month.
George Ian Follett, known as Ian, passed away peacefully among close family on October 27 at the age of 86.
A doting family man, he was dearly loved, and leaves behind a legacy of devotion, having been a father to four children, Mandy, Mark, Garrie, and Karen, with 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Born in Mitchum, Surrey, Ian's life journey led him to Cornwall with his family in 1979. It was here that he assumed the role of General Manager at Mallets of Truro. Over the course of 23 years, he dedicated himself to the growth and success of the company, eventually becoming a director of Home Hardware and serving as the esteemed President of the British Hardware Federation.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ian's passions included exploring the world through travel, cherishing moments with his beloved family, and indulging in a round of golf. His journey in the world of hardware began early, as he served as an assistant editor of The Ironmonger magazine upon leaving school at the age of 15. Through perseverance and hard work, he completed his apprenticeship with Downs Hardware at Epsom and emerged as a qualified ironmonger.
In 1968, Ian's career trajectory led him to join the sales team at Judge Housewares, where he made significant contributions, including persuading major retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Asda to introduce housewares to their shelves. His pivotal role in these developments underscored his commitment to the industry's growth and expansion.
Ian's most significant impact was perhaps his pivotal role in the evolution of Malletts of Truro. Under his stewardship, the business witnessed unprecedented growth, doubling in floor space, achieving a six-fold increase in sales to over £4m, and expanding its staff to nearly 70 employees.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Ian often described his presidency at the BHF as the pinnacle of his ironmongery career.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, expressed profound sorrow at Ian's passing. He said: "He was a well-respected president, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Ian's enduring legacy serves as an inspiration to the hardware industry, a testament to the impact that passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment can have on an entire field. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those whose lives he touched.”