26 Industry News Also online at www.dijonline.co.uk Door Industry Journal Spring 2026 Doors close on Adlor – or do they? After 44 years of trading, the doors finally closed on our family business at the end of February… IN 1981, the year left school, my father, John McConnel started the business with two partners, one of which was bought out for £100 with a year. My father and his other partner (Keith Adams) continued the business for several years until Keith decided to leave. My Mum, Brother and I then became partners, with dad still holding 51% of the company. (shrewd) and has continued as such. Over the years we have seen manufacturers come and go, including Westland Engineers, Catnic Garador, management buyouts and finally the Germans arrived and took over, but we survived it all and carried on regardless with a typical stiff upper lip. There have been some funny moments along the way, particularly with customers, one example was, when we asked a homeowner how old the operator was? The lady was then heard saying to her husband. How old are you Bill? There is so much more I could write but hopefully this gives you a small insight into an old fashioned, successful family run business in the true sense of the word and not a computer in sight. Dad is not nearly 89, he would like to carry on with his hobby and was working up ‘til eight weeks ago, but I’m afraid age has finally caught up with him. Although he is still giving out instructions from his bedside. We would like to thank our wonderful and not so wonderful staff over the years for helping us along the way. In particular a special mention to Lee Shepherd who has been our right-hand man for more than 20 years, Lee is staying in the garage door industry. and l am sure will be very successful in his own right. Also, a special mention to all of our customers, past and present, who without none of this could of happened. Moving forward the business has been sold to another local garage door company; whose hands we feel confident in leaving it to. We wish Jon May of 1* Choice Garage Doors continued success for the future, that I know we have enjoyed for so long. www.adloruk.com
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