Get to know the people behind our company in this candid interview series. Today, we're sitting down with Richard McKay, who shares insights into their work, interests, and what makes them tick.
What's your favourite product or service we offer and why? Our 20mm Pro gym flooring tile stands out as my favourite product. As our bestseller, it's been incredible to witness its growing popularity in the market.
What's a project you're particularly proud of working on, and what made it so rewarding? One of our most significant achievements has been becoming the trusted gym flooring supplier for several premier football clubs. We've had the privilege of providing flooring solutions to Manchester City, Manchester United, West Ham, Crystal Palace, St Mirren, Nottingham Forest, Brentford, Bournemouth, and many others.
What's a movie or TV show you could watch over and over again? Interstellar has drawn me back three times, which is rare for me. Currently, I'm captivated by Severance and enjoy diving into the fan theories on Reddit.
What's a hobby you're passionate about outside of work? Last year, what started as simple garden maintenance evolved into a three-month landscaping project during evenings and weekends. While it's on pause during winter, I'm eagerly anticipating spring to get back out there in my wellies.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Japan appeals to me for its unique blend of culture, scenery, food, and otherworldly atmosphere. Taking my family there in the next few years is definitely on the bucket list.
What's your favourite books (or authors) and why do they appeal to you? Two books have left a lasting impression since my early twenties: Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh and Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie. I revisited Trainspotting during lockdown and found its dialogue still outstanding. Midnight's Children demanded more time and attention but proved immensely rewarding.
What's one thing that always makes you laugh? Father Ted - its timeless silliness recently won over my 12-year-old daughter.
What's your go-to comfort food? Spicy dishes, particularly Indian food and kebabs, are my weakness when it comes to weight management - they're just too good to resist!
What's a typical day like for you at work? Most of my day is spent in front of a screen managing various aspects of our e-commerce business, from content creation and optimization to strategic planning.
Coffee or tea? Both, but coffee is strictly a before-10am affair.
Are there any skills or talents you have that might surprise us? I can juggle and perform basic sleight of hand magic tricks.
What's the most daring or adventurous thing you've ever done? Despite being terrified of heights and speed, I rode the Coca Cola Rollercoaster at The Glasgow Garden Festival in 1988. I'd convinced myself I'd enjoy it, but those five minutes proved to be the most terrifying of my life. That experience effectively ended my rollercoaster career before it began!
