Party Delights founders Allison and Steve Graham have announced that they will be stepping down from the business on Wednesday 31 October 2018, five years after Party City officially acquired the company in March 2013.
The business has continued to operate independently since then, while still enjoying the backing of the American parent company. The couple have remained actively involved the business, which was originally founded by Allison, until this year.
They now feel the time is right to stand back and let the emerging management team take the business to the next level. Claire Grasby, formerly marketing director will be promoted to managing director, while commercial accountant Jamie Lee is being promoted to commercial director.
“Coming to the decision has been difficult for us, but we feel that now is absolutely the right time to take a step back and enjoy some of what life has to offer,” commented Steve. “Allison and I have remained with the business longer than was strictly needed since Party City acquired us in 2013, as we simply enjoy what we do and the people we work with.”
“I am so excited that a young dynamic team will take the Party Delights baton and keep running,” added Allison. “Claire and Jamie will be aided by an enhanced management team, and we feel 100% confident that their energy and modern approach to business will be of huge benefit to our much-loved clients.”
“We feel really happy that this is the right time,” the pair concluded. “The business has been left to operate independently and with character, but with the backing of Party City and the key drivers there including Jim Harrison and Gregg Melnick – they are true gentleman of the trade and we thank them for their unwavering support for us, and for this fantastic business.”
Following their Halloween departure, Allison and Steve will enjoy an extended holiday before resuming chairman roles from January 2019.
A full article on the new Party Delights team will appear in Progressive Party Europe in the coming months.
