Cheshire: Family business bids farewell after 40 years

Techno Type is shutting its King Street shop, Knutsford, after trading in the town for more than 40 years.

Owner Kate Kindred made the heart-wrenching decision so she can embark on a new career to help husband Steve’s growing business.

Mum-of-two Kate, 51, from Knutsford, said: “This has been a really tough decision but it is a positive.

“I’ve just been juggling so many balls, I need more work life balance.”

Husband Steve, 52, who runs Chess Property, a surveying and design practice, said: “I am extremely proud of Kate’s achievements at Techno Type.

“She will be the perfect injection of support that Chess needs, making it more efficient going forward.

“I am super excited to have her come on board as we are a fantastic team.”

Kate’s parents, Terry and Sheila Jones, both 79, started Techno Type in 1983, selling typewriters and business supplies to local companies.

From left, Kate Kindred, Karen Taylor, Becky Stuart and Terry Jones want to thank all their customers for their loyal support (Image: Techno Type)

The business soon outgrew its first office above what is now Hot Cocoa and took over Brookes butchers.

After extensive renovation, the couple turned it into the thriving business service centre it is today.

Kate joined 19 years ago, when dad Terry retired, and the company has continued to expand, adapting to changing needs and moving with technology.

It’s the people, she says, that have made it so special.

“Customers are like family and that’s how we regard them,” said Kate.

“We have been overwhelmed with the response. They have been coming in with chocolates and presents, saying how sorry they are that we are closing.

“We really appreciate it.

“It just shows that old fashioned customer service makes a difference to people’s lives and never being too busy to have a chat.

“We have always joked that we should have put a coffee machine into our shop as people love coming in to pass the time whilst we get print jobs ready for them.”

Kate has made sure that her loyal team of staff and customers will be looked after.

Account customers will continue to be serviced by SC Office for deliveries of business supplies.

Karen Taylor, office supervisor for 35 years, is taking early retirement to spend time with husband Howard.

Becky Stuart is moving to a new role as she feels it is time for a career change.

Mat Bashford, in charge of logistics and deliveries, has found a job with an account customer.

“Our staff have been a crucial part of our success story,” said Kate.

“The team’s happy greeting and going the extra mile has made Techno Type what it is today,” said Kate.

“We will be leaving on a high with fond memories and valued friendships we’ve made along the way.

“We will continue to support Knutsford and our fellow high street shops.

“We love our beautiful town and want to thank everyone for their valued custom over the years.”

Bargains galore are now on offer as the shop will open until all the stock is cleared, running a closing down sale until the end of April, from Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm.