Posted:09-October-2026
Celebrating 20 Years of Dedication: A Q&A with John Coe
This month, we are incredibly proud to celebrate a massive milestone. John is celebrating 20 years with Card Connection!
Known across the business for his incredible humility, dedication, and supportive nature, he has been a pillar of CC through major eras of growth, including our transition into the UK Greetings family. We sat down with him to look back on his journey, his favourite moments, and what keeps him motivated every day.
How long have you been with the business, and what first attracted you to the role?
Twenty years ago, I was completely blown away by seeing the incredible Card Connection products and displays.
CC was, and still is, truly the envy of all our competitors - it felt like joining the top dog in the industry, and I knew I had to be a part of it.
The biggest business change that I’ve seen was when UK Greetings acquired Card Connection. Navigating that transitional period together was a huge milestone. Since then, the evolution of our product range has been impressive, and the depth of our offering is a standout for our customers.
Introducing gifting and party ranges has truly kept us ahead of the field. That kind of continuous innovation is vital our franchisees, and it has been great to watch their individual businesses grow over the years because of it.
What has stayed the same throughout your time here?
Whilst a lot has evolved, our position as a market leader has never wavered. Our core focus on delivering excellent customer service has remained crucial from day one too. On a personal level, I still try to approach every single challenge with a win-win attitude—that consistent ethos is something that defines both CC and how we do business.
How would you describe the company culture and what makes this a great place to work?
I have always found Card Connection to be like a wonderful 'extended family'. Our franchisees are a major part of that family, and I still cherish seeing these values across the business today. It’s incredibly heartening to see so many people (Head Office colleagues and franchisees) who have also worked here for 20-plus years. That shared history is one of CC’s greatest strengths, and it's exactly what helps drive the business forward.
What's the biggest lesson you've learned during your career here?
Tough question! There are so many things! How about ‘never go out for the day without the backup of plenty of strong coffee!’ Thanks to Andy Bull for teaching me this during my initial training! It’s advice I still follow to this day, Andy!
What's one skill you've developed that you're most proud of?
Appreciating that there are always two sides to every story. Over the years, I’ve learned how important it is to fully understand the whole picture before reacting to a situation - that balance and perspective is something I rely on regularly in my role.
What has kept you motivated to stay for so many years?
It’s the variety. Navigating a constant stream of different challenges keeps things exciting, and it is hugely satisfying to affect a franchisee or project positively. On top of that, getting to work with people from so many different cultures and backgrounds brings a lot of joy and it makes every day engaging.
What goals or ambitions do you still have?
I am as energized as ever by seeing our franchisees and their teams move their businesses forward. There are always new products to celebrate, and that buzz still excites me and drives me on every day. Sales growth in the business continues to give me an incredible thrill.
Thank you, John, for two decades of hard work, win-win attitudes, and leadership! Please join us in giving him a huge congratulations on 20 fantastic years.
Interested and want to know more about Card Connection?
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