Martin succeeded in securing a new position in Kent and following the movement of the family down to Herne Bay in Kent, Martin and Jackie decided that it was time to launch their own company full time following Jackie’s success with the hygiene bag dispenser. They worked together from home expanding their market in the hotels and hospitality industry and then diversified into the servicing of sanitary and nappy bins in 1995. The service division commenced with a small van with Martin driving and Jackie servicing, but has expanded over the years to today; a fleet of vans covering Kent, Sussex, London and Surrey.

Jackie started marketing the hygiene bag dispensing system from the family home in Cheshire at the beginning of 1991 after Martin had been made redundant from Welcome Plc following a sell off of the hygiene services division. She was successful in introducing the product into four and five star hotels by mailing samples to the head housekeepers and following up with phone calls. A successful husband and wife partnership as well as a business one!

In 1999, aged 19 following the availability of a service operative position, Matthew decided to follow in his parent’s footsteps and began working for VR. His responsibilities were to carry out servicing and help with general administration. In 2000 VR secured their own premises in Herne Bay and Matthew took on over the service manager’s responsibilities from Martin.  In 2005 Matthew moved to the position of operations manager helping and guiding the service operatives in their servicing roles. This included organising over 70 routes and overseeing the servicing of over 1900 customers. From August 2015 Martin and Jackie took a huge step away from the business and Matthew moved into his most important role of Managing Director. He has proved that business acumen, hard work and a customer driven outlook is most obviously in the Crowther blood!

Jo is the daughter of Martin and Jackie and began her career at VR in April 2007 after gaining a 2:1 degree in business and marketing and working for a successful clothing import/export merchants organising shipments and customers. Jo decided her expertise would be of great value at VR Sani-Co Ltd and decided to join the family business. Jo began her career at VR overseeing the administration and marketing for the company as well as credit control and payroll. As of August 2015 Jo moved into her new position of Marketing Director.  Her main responsibility is marketing and that’s where her passion lies. In addition she is not only Matthew’s sister but also his right hand lady, aiding with strategic decisions along with keeping the office and the administration of the company running smoothly.

VR employed Phil Greene as their Area Sales Manager at the beginning of 2010 to move VR further in the right direction. In 2014 Phil progressed to Business Development Manager as he proved that his sales techniques and customer service had advanced the company hugely. Phil is a confident, approachable and bubbly character that is very passionate about succeeding (especially as the in laws are his employers). His passion for washroom services and VR Sani-Co is second to none. What you get with Phil is a warm, friendly and honest approach; please feel free to contact Phil to discuss what VR can do for you.

Craig joined the team in November 2017. His background of high end customer service skills and his gentle nature shone out for us. As soon as Craig started work for the company he settled in quickly. He brings a warmth to the office environment and has a “no problem” attitude. Craig is already a highly respected employee by not just the team but the customers. His personal values of honesty, integrity and professionalism match spot on with the company’s values. The perfect match!

Abby joined the “gang” back in May 2015. Jo was in need of an extra pair of hands to help with the administration needs of the business. We welcomed Abby with open arms. Her organisational skills are outstanding and she came with a hidden gem – creativity! Her creative, fresh approach to the company’s marketing has bought out the best in Jo and in the marketing itself. The two work together in unison – “two peas in a pod” Therefore Abby’s job role changed rapidly from admin assistant to marketing and admin assistant.

Hannah was bought on board in August 2018 as an extra pair of hands within the office. Her organisational skills are perfect for our busy office environment. With a fab eye for detail nothing much get missed with Hannah on board. In addition as my sister in law and Matt’s wife she fitted in to the “family” business with ease.

Rickie joined the VR team as a service operative in 2013. He was bought on board to mainly cover the servicing in the London area. In April 2016 a position became available of Service Operative Supervisor, Rickie applied and the rest as they say is history. VR accepted his application immediately as his honest, hard working; enthusiastic approach was perfect for the role. What you see is what you get with Rickie and his honesty and integrity is valued hugely by the VR team.

Steve joined VR at the end of 2012. His customer service and attitude to the job is of the highest as one of VR’s trusted employees he was promoted to Service Operative Supervisor, aiding Rickie in his servicing decisions and generally offering support to the operatives when needed. His charismatic character means Steve is a hit with not only the customers but also with his team mates.

Chris has been with the company since October 2001 and has been an exceptional service operative over the years with VR. Her service and her commitment to her customers is of an exceptional standard.

Gary joined the VR service team in May 2016. His experience of working within the hygiene industry stood out for us. His gentle nature and superb customer service makes him an exceptional team member!

Danny joined the company in November 2017. His bubbly personality and winning smile stood out for us and he quietly and consistently does a fantastic job for the company always with the upmost professionalism.

Chris joined the team in June 2017. The glint in his eye caught ours. Chris is very authentic and what you see is what you get. A valued member of the team who is well liked and respected by both his colleagues and customers.

Our newest member of the team Lee’s experience of being a black cab driver for many years meant his customer service skills are of the highest! You wouldn’t know Lee hasn’t been part of the VR family for many years.

Gill has worked on and off for VR Sani-Co for nearly 10 years. Helping and aiding with administration when possible, even though only a part time employee she is a much needed part of our team.

Eileen is not only Matthew’s mother in law but has worked part time for VR for a number of years. Aiding in the cleanliness and organisation of our warehouse.