Bluewater at 10 16th March 2009 Bluewater, Europe’s leading shopping and leisure destination, celebrated its 10th Anniversary on 16 March 2009 and to mark the occasion launched a year-long programme of local community events and activities.

To underline Bluewater’s on-going commitment to the local community and meeting the needs of its employees by creating a positive working environment, the 10th Anniversary celebrations commenced with a breakfast reception and awards ceremony to acknowledge the outstanding contribution made by over 500 employees, who have worked at Bluewater since it opened in 1999. Ken Francis, Events Manager at Bluewater commented on his 10 years at Bluewater: “I feel proud to work at Bluewater. There is not a day when I don’t look forward to coming to work.” General Manager of Bluewater, Andrew Parkinson, Simon Russell, Managing Director of John Lewis Bluewater, and long-serving employee, Malcolm Cooper, gave speeches on the past, present and future of Bluewater. Following the speeches, employees were congratulated, and their long-service acknowledged with an awards presentation.

In addition, there was also a surprise presentation to one extraordinary Bluewater employee by Lorraine Kelly in the Bluewater Management Suite.“In 1994, the Bluewater story began with one simple belief - that the impossible could be achieved with, vision, commitment, and the right team. Today that vision has become reality, and Bluewater recognises the commitment of its employees and thanks them for their exceptional contribution in getting us to where we are today. We hope to continue to provide a positive working environment for current and future employees for many years to come.” Andrew Parkinson, General Manager, Bluewater.