Storck’s Paul Ridgway bids an industry farewell

by Dermot Davitt |

Long-time head of Storck Travel Retail Paul Ridgway bid an emotional farewell to the industry on Wednesday evening in Cannes, with a surprise celebration organised by the company at the JW Marriott Hotel on the Croisette.

Ridgway, retired earlier this year after 17 years working with Storck in the travel retail channel. He was joined by his wife Josie (above) and extended family, who flew in to Cannes to surprise him on the night. Many of his colleagues and friends from the industry, notably from other confectionery companies, also joined the party, and raised a toast to Ridgway.

Ridgway said: “This is a great business and one that is made special by the people within it. It’s nice of you all to be here and I’m really privileged to have worked in this trade. And I’ll make sure I keep in touch with the business by reading The Moodie Report and the other publications.”

Storck’s Thomas Huber also spoke warmly of Ridgway’s achievements. He said: “Everyone here came along a little bit because of business, a little because of Storck, but mainly because of you.

“I’d like to say a personal and a company thank you. You have built Storck Travel Retail from zero to where it is today. Travel Retail is your baby and it would be nothing without you. You will be much missed, but we hope you will enjoy your retirement.”