CES Orlando Central Celebrates 25 Memorable Years
[Orlando Central, Florida] – For Branch Manager Robert Burrows, being a part of the City Electric Supply Orlando Central branch over the last four-and-a-half years and having the responsibility of running a branch that has been open for 25 has truly been a privilege.
“Words cannot describe how excited our team is to be a part of this momentous celebration. For 25 strong years, our branch has been a staple in the community, and we continue to grow as a partner to our customers,” said Burrows.
Burrows started with CES in 2011 as a driver at CES Clermont. After about three years, he moved up in the ranking to become operations manager at CES Brooksville. Shortly after, he moved back to Clermont to work as their operations manager when District Manager Micah O’Steen was promoted to his current position in 2013.
“When Micah was promoted to District Manager, it provided the opportunity for me to move back home to the Clermont area,” said Burrows.
During the celebration, attendees were able to network, learn about new products from different vendors and the CES Renewables Energy Group, and indulge in Uncle Eddie’s BBQ in the beautiful Florida weather.
Many vendors included Klein Tools, Legrand, Wiha, TAMCO, and Milwaukee Tools, who contributed to the raffle prizes that were given away at the end of the event.
With a constant flow of customers coming and going, the branch received outstanding attendance throughout the day.
“It was really awesome that we had over 100 individuals in attendance to celebrate with us,” stated Burrows. “The entire day was just so thrilling.”
As many thoughts and emotions came over Burrows after the event, he couldn’t help but mention how much preparation went into it.
“It was nice when the day finally arrived. It gave us an opportunity to relax a little and celebrate with everyone who helped us get where we are now,” said Burrows.
For O’Steen, being a part of the anniversary was a satisfying achievement after being a part of the Orlando district for nearly 20 years.
“Seeing this branch continue to achieve sales and profitability records for multiple, consecutive years is exciting and fulfilling,” said O’Steen.
As the day came to an end, the grand prize and raffle prizes were drawn, and 28 individuals were gifted with a fun giveaway. The best part of the day in Burrows’ eyes was the grand prize drawing.
“The grand prize was the best part because we got to give away a $1,000 travel voucher,” said Burrows. “We are giving a customer a vacation! Most work all year long and don’t have the time or funds to take their loved ones on a well-deserved break, so CES is giving them the chance to win.”
When Burrows drew the winner, he was more than excited to call the winner and let him know.
“We have known the winner for nearly three years, and he doesn’t get to travel much. He once worked with us but had to leave to find another job where he was more available to pick his kids up from school,” said Burrows. “When I called him, he was so overwhelmed, and you could hear in his voice how excited he was and how much he needed this.”
During Burrows’ time with the branch, he has enjoyed many accomplishments, especially watching the branch grow.
“When I started, the branch didn’t have the best reputation,” said Burrows. “We worked hard to change the perception and morals when I started. We had to change the culture of this branch to make customers want to work with us. Since then, we’ve had several transfers from other branches because employees want to work specifically at this branch.”
Burrows enjoys many aspects of the job, including being involved in customer projects.
“My favorite part of each day is just being a reflection of the businesses of my customers. Their successes are ours. When they land big jobs, it’s exciting for us. We just enjoy being there for them,” stated Burrows.
The 25th celebration for CES Orlando Central was enjoyed, and the hard work the branch puts in daily was appreciated, by Regional Manager Mark Mickley.
“I certainly want to always thank the staff for all of their hard work and efforts,” said Mickley.
Co-Coo Andrew Dawes was just as thankful for the hard work of his team.
“It is not the brick and mortar, it is about the effort that is put in on a daily basis, and for that, we are grateful for all of the employees who have helped us come this far,” said Dawes. 