'I have three lovely grandchildren, a very close family, and a wonderful husband who is also retired plus a house in France. What more could anyone want?'
Penni Anderson, chief executive of electrical accessories specialist, Byron told diyweek.net it is 'wonderful' feeling to retire after 25 years heading the Bromsgrove business.

"I have loved working and it has been a wonderful privilege to work with such lovely people. Also to enjoy the cut-and-thrust of business life," she said. "I've always tried to give 100% to what I do and I will give 100% to enjoying retirement."

Retirement, she added, will give her time to spend time with her close-knit family.

She said: "I have three lovely grandchildren a very close family and a wonderful husband who is also retired plus a house in France. What more could anyone want?"

Mrs Anderson said she has no fears for the business, and can see it developing upon its strengths.

"I am sure the business will grow and grow. We have everything going for us. We have a very loyal committed workforce and a great product range. I have absolutely no worries for them in the future," she added.

As for her successors - directors, Rebeccca Mander, Mrs Anderson's daughter, and Simon Lee - she offered the following advice.

Look after your work force – without them you have nothing;

Keep a careful eye on the finances of the business and always know where you stand;

Don't be afraid of change;

Know your market well;

Try not to borrow money;

Drive a good deal and make sure it is profitable.

Mrs Anderson took over the running of Byron in 1991. It is a family-led business with six members still involved.