WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT THE EDUCATIONAL PRODUCTS INDUSTRY ? For most people in the industry improving the learning outcomes of our children through their work is an incredibly satisfying goal . We all know that teachers and governments also play a critical part but as an industry we can do our bit . I think the educational products industry brings together like-minded people who want to use their businesses to achieve something a little bit more . I like that .
HOW HAD EDMARKET HELPED YOUR BUSINESS ? Gratnells has been a member of EDmarket for more than two decades . The staff and members have always been helpful and supportive of our business , especially Tim Holt who is no longer with us . Many a good time was had at exhibitions both here and in Europe .
WHAT CHANGES ARE YOU WITNESSING IN THE EDUCATIONAL MARKETPLACE ? I think suppliers are now being asked to provide that little bit better service , along with a better understanding of schools and how they work .
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF ? Setting up the Gratnells Learning Rooms project and starting to change the way traditional school furniture manufacturers think out how their products relate to the school environment .
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY ADAPTED ? Gratnells spends a lot of time listening to the marketplace . There is lots of noise out there — but hopefully we adapt by offering the right products that schools need at the time they need them . We are now very involved with the requirements for successful STEM teaching and the Makerspace movement .
WHAT HAS MADE YOUR BUSINESS SUCCESSFUL ? Without any doubt it is perseverance , believing in what we do and long term planning . As a family business short term is not a priority .
Murray likes to spend weekends at karting events with his son Rory , shown here in action .
WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHERS IN OUR INDUSTRY ?
Great
Learning Spaces Start with Jonti-Craft .
We design and furnish the great spaces where children learn , play and grow .
• 4,000 + handcrafted furniture pieces for classrooms , libraries , public spaces and more
• Selections and options for every learning need and budget
• Achieve a seamless look throughout your space
www . jonti-craft . com 800.543.4149
Ask not what your product is , but what it does to improve learning outcomes . n
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