For James Hallam, A.R. Richards is much more than a workplace. It’s where a career, built through determination and hard work, has taken him from an entry-level role to leading one of the area’s most successful family-run businesses.
Born and bred in Market Drayton, James admits he wasn’t always sure what career path he wanted to follow. That changed when he spotted a job advertised on Facebook and applied to become a Weighbridge Assistant at A.R. Richards.
Today, he is the company’s General Manager.
“It’s proof that hard work really does pay off,” said James. “When I joined the business I was a bit lost in terms of what I wanted to do. Very quickly I realised that if you worked hard and showed the right attitude, there were opportunities to progress. A.R. Richards gave me that opportunity, and I want to help create those same opportunities for other people.”
His story isn’t unique within the business.
“A lot of our management team have worked their way up through the company. We believe in promoting people who show commitment, want to learn and are prepared to put the effort in.”
More Than Waste Management
While many local people recognise the A.R. Richards name, James believes many would be surprised by just how much the business offers.
The company provides waste management, recycling, aggregates, building supplies, agricultural contracting, construction services and plant hire, operating a fleet of more than 50 vehicles across three sites.
Each year the company handles more than 140,000 tonnes of waste from households, businesses and local authorities, playing a vital role in helping recycle and recover materials that might otherwise end up in landfill.
“It’s an industry that’s constantly evolving,” said James. “Waste management and recycling are becoming increasingly important, which means there are exciting opportunities for growth and innovation. We’re proud to operate one of the largest sites in the Midlands, and we’re continuing to invest in the future.”
Creating Careers for Local People
As the business continues to grow, A.R. Richards is always looking for people who want to build a career.
The company recruits for a wide range of roles, including HGV drivers, plant operators, office staff, sales positions and other operational roles.
“We’re not always looking for experience,” explained James. “The right mindset is often far more important. We can teach skills, but we want people who are enthusiastic, reliable and want to make a difference.”
Having experienced career progression himself, James is passionate about helping others develop.
“If someone wants to work hard and progress, we want to support them. I’ve been given that chance, so I know what it can mean.”
Giving Back to the Community
Community has always been at the heart of A.R. Richards.
Directors Andrew and Sam Richards have built a reputation for supporting charities and local organisations throughout the region, helping causes including Hope House Children’s Hospices, the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, The Azaylia Foundation and Midlands Air Ambulance.
“They’re big believers in giving something back,” said James. “These are charities that are close to our hearts, and if we’re in a position to help, we feel it’s important that we do.”
Opening the Gates
James is also keen for more people to discover what happens behind the gates at A.R. Richards.
The company hopes to host site tours and networking events, giving local businesses and residents the chance to see the scale of its operations and learn more about the services it provides.
“We’d love more people to come and visit us,” he said. “Many people don’t realise everything we do, from our recycling operations to our builders’ merchants, which offers very competitive prices compared with many national suppliers.”
“It’s also an opportunity to show people the careers that are available here. If my story shows anything, it’s that you don’t have to have everything planned out. If you’re prepared to work hard, there are real opportunities to build a successful career.”
As one of Market Drayton’s largest employers, A.R. Richards continues to invest in local people, local services and the local community—proving that businesses can grow while helping others grow with them.
For more information about A.R. Richards, its services or career opportunities, visit www.arrichards.co.uk.
