Blog > Celebrating 35 Years of Amo
AMO’s journey started in West Yorkshire back in 1989 when the late Peter Hudson decided to put his heart and skills into supplying high-quality Security Doors & Shutters, Security Gates & Grilles, and secure Garage Doors.
Over the years, their scope has expanded significantly after venturing into the Awning market.
Today, three generations of the Hudson family steer the ship: Rachael Hudson, Abby Huntington, and Liz Hudson, along with their fantastic team.
As we’re Celebrating 35 Years of Amo, we thought it would be a wonderful idea to sit down with Rachael to discuss her dads’ legacy and find out more about her!
My dad started working at AMO when he was 39 years old. Before that, he was an electrician. He joined the AMO Security Division, which was a part of AMO Blinds, where Richard Greave and Eric Royds were directors, and my mum worked there too.
My dad was fed up with crawling about on his hands and knees doing electrical work. The security shutters industry was relatively new at the time, and there weren’t many businesses offering these services. Nothing specifically happened to make him want to go into securing people’s homes and businesses; he just saw an up-and-coming industry with an opportunity!
He always had me in the workshop building tube and link shutters. It was his baby! He loved tinkering in the workshop but never forced on me to get involved. Although his business was very important mum and I and later his grandchildren, Abby and Emily, were the most important things in his life.
Unfortunately I never worked alongside him and came into the business once he had passed. Something I probably regret now but at the time it just wasn’t something I never thought about. He also was not the Dad to give me an easy route, he wanted me to find my own way in life and be independent, something I am forever grateful for.
When I came on board I had some very big shoes to fill. He was very well respected in the industry and by his staff. He was a very fair man who cared for people and was just generally a really nice guy. We called him The Don within our family because he was always the one people turned as he always gave extremely good advice. I miss his advice!
My dad had a variety of hobbies. He loved Formula One, rugby, eating out, and family gatherings.
While he did what he had to do to run a successful business, sometimes working late nights, early mornings, or weekends, his priority was always family, friends, and health. He knew how to balance work and personal life, making sure his loved ones came first!
His family was his world, and he cherished the time spent with us.
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I joined AMO in 2012 when I was 36. I started out being responsible for Accounts and HR.
My mum wanted to take a step back after losing Dad, so I stepped in alongside my husband at the time, who took over from my dad.
Day to day I handle quoting, speaking to customers, answering the phone, meeting people in the showroom, going out networking, and assisting Abby in learning everything about AMO. I also talk to the team regularly – but I don’t do anything on a Friday.. it’s my day off!
It’s amazing to see transformations of our customers outdoor spaces and security, as well as seeing businesses expanding their outdoor space, so that they can accommodate more customers!
However, my favourite thing above all is that it’s all about the legacy of my dad. I fell in love with AMO just like he did, and I am honoured to be here, carrying it on alongside Abby. When we receive 5 Star Reviews from customers it’s a lovely reminder that we’re doing everything right and I’m sure my dad would be proud of us all!
Outside of work, I love keeping busy! Yoga is my go-to for staying zen and kickboxing is great for the opposite! I love being on holiday (who doesn’t) as I really enjoy exploring new places and soaking in different vibes. I also love spending time with friends and family, especially when we’re out walking the dogs 🐕.
It’s lovely to have her carry on the family business and it would be great if we could keep this going for generations to come. We make a great team, and she’s my right-hand woman. We occasionally argue but it’s soon forgotten about!
As we’re Celebrating 35 Years of Amo, in 5 or 10 years, I picture myself celebrating 45 years of AMO, which would be a huge milestone! I’m thinking I’ll be semi-retired by then, working part-time while Abby takes over the reins. Hopefully, I’ll be jetting off on lots of holidays—maybe even have a place in Lanzarote for some sun and relaxation. And, of course, looking after the (future) grandkids. Most importantly, I see myself happy, healthy, and enjoying life to the fullest!
Stay tuned – but you’ll have to make sure you’re on our mailing list!! 😊
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