Introducing John Thurgood, Totally Tasty’s CEO

Join us as we explore our CEO’s journey to creating Totally Tasty, his career and his vision for the future of the business. We’ll now hand over to John.

Where did it all begin?

I have my grandfather, George, to thank for my career because just after WW1 he was working for a stationery shop in the City of London in a role described to me as a “sweeper upper”! He and a colleague called Henry would eventually go on to own this business until Henry retired in 1961.

At this point George went into business with his son Graham (my father) and G Thurgood & Son Limited was born – the company we still trade with today, albeit renamed. George passed away in 1972 and my father Graham took over and a second shop City of London shop was opened in 1977.

Fast forward to 1991 which was the point that I was drafted into the business as dad wanted to retire due to poor health. So, aged 21 armed with 5 ‘O’ levels, highlighted hair and 3 earrings (I had fully embraced the late 80’s) my journey to continue the family legacy began.

The City of London was booming following “The Big Bang” and we quickly computerised, closed our retail shops, took commercial premises and completed our first acquisition – all in the first 4 years!

On reflecting it seems crazy that, at just 21 years of age, we managed to pull this off. I don’t remember ever feeling daunted in those early years. What I lacked in experience was pushed aside by hard work, a positive attitude, common sense and some luck along the way.

What’s next for you?

I became CEO of Total Office in 2022 and handed the running of the business to Diane who is now our amazing MD. I love my CEO role, it’s given me the time and clarity of thought to develop and launch our new venture, Totally Tasty.

We want to transform the way snacks and refreshments are provided, particularly in London where most of our clients are based. We have some great new healthy and ethically sourced products but there is so much more to talk about!

Total Office has the people, systems, logistics and over 60 years of experience getting goods into London’s offices. I believe this will help Totally Tasty become the premier workplace refreshments supplier to London’s businesses.

So, it’s business as usual in terms of great service and account management but in this new and exciting (and tasty!) sector. My sleeves are rolled up and I continue to work with my colleagues to constantly improve our proposition, develop new ideas and engage with businesses who share our vision.